We play U14 travel (girls). We have a new player who is a budding keeper. She has played multiple ball sports at school including volleyball and softball. This is her first season of club soccer, and she looks pretty darned good though very green. One issue that manager and coach are facing is that she does not wear soccer cleats but does wear softball training shoes that have no studs and very soft uppers. This could well be pure ignorance of kit to be used on the part of the parents. Is this an issue that coach should pursue. Arguments in favor and against would be appreciated. Thanks Phil Woods
I think parents tend to be wait and see in this situation. From my experience, parents hesitated buying my gk, her gk shirt/gloves etc. until they were sure that she would stick with it. Fair enough, because I've had another gk who stopped playing the position after two seasons (she was good, but didn't love it). Ideally, you would make her get soccer cleats and a base pair could be had for $20. The longer she's in the game and she'll get soccer cleats. At U14, and new to soccer, touch isn't going to be a huge thing for her.
I would recommend buying the cleats... although a cheaper pair. As mentioned, you can get a pair for $ 20-30. For the early morning games (assuming she plays outdoor) she'll need the extra traction the cleats will give her.
Just to extend the initial post, the young lady in question purchased soccer cleats (not expensive!) and is playing keeper like Hope Solo; not sure on the dancing front though. Asked her how she finds the new cleats and she was amazed at how it has helped her! Thanks.
I think it would be smart to bring it up with the player first. Ask her if she has thought about getting Soccer cleats. The studs would definitely help her with traction and pressing off for her dives. It would be smart to address the issue sooner rather than later. Best of luck. Keep me posted.
