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Competitive Philosophy
Always Moving; Always Improving!
Here at Missoula Strikers we aim to play with an efficient and measured, possession-based approach. Pass appreciation, combined with intelligent and timely movement off the ball and support play, lead to progress and penetration through the thirds of the field. A mix between combination play in tight areas and switching the ball out into open space in order to unbalance defenses, provides us with goal-scoring opportunities when counter attacking possibilities are denied. When Defending we do it effectively and efficiently: A Strikers team should be controlled, calculated and assertive in their approach, with all players contributing and having a clear understanding of the tactical objectives being used to regain possession of the ball. We aim to control both side of the ball with patient and intelligent soccer. Our playing style will allow all players to contribute to the attacking phase with creativity, composure, and assertiveness. Defensively all players are expected to remain patient, compact, composed, and disciplined.
As a club we are focused on establishing a positive culture throughout the whole of the organization. We want to build an environment where success is not measured by winning teams but by player development and growth in the game. Of course we want all of our teams to win games but our emphasis is on playing the right way and not a win-at-all-costs mentality. Winning is an important factor in player development, it raises confidence, self-esteem, and self-belief but as a club we also understand that there are more important aspects to consider. Not only do our coaches strive to enhance a player’s ability on the field but also nurture their character off it. Our coaches realize that they can become an integral part of a young person’s life, it is important to the club’s philosophy that our players, coaches and parents showcase good sportsmanship and respect at all times. Our primary focus is to develop decent human-beings, soccer is simply our mode of transportation.
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MONTANA YOUTH SOCCER ASSOC - SPRING LEAGUE
League games will be scheduled on Saturday's April through May. Club directors try to match teams up based on their competitive level. Terminology used for the most competitive teams is Premier. Premier teams are teams that want to face tough competition and intend to compete for the right to represent Montana at regional events. Our Premier level teams typically travel as far as Las Vegas, Portland, and Boise to face a higher level of competition. Select level teams tend to be teams that do not necessarily want, or need, to travel these long distances to face tougher competition.
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FALL & SPRING TOURNAMENTS
Tournaments are recommended by club directors to the coaching staff and the coaches present options to their teams. The cost of these tournaments will be calculated into team fees and all players will be expected to pay towards these team selected events. Montana Youth Soccer Association's State Showcase and State Cup are included in the club's program fees and participation at these events is expected unless discussed with the club director.
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COACHES
All competitive coaches are required to have passed a minimum of three USSF coaching modules. Premier team coaches are required to hold a minimum of a USSF D license. All coaches will be invited to attend Strikers coaching clinics through the winter and spring. All coaches are required to register with the state association, complete background check, concussion training, and safe sport training.
TEAM MANAGERS
Each team requires the help of one or two team managers/parent volunteers. This is an essential role in a team's success, typically it includes: Team communication, Teamsnap setup, and team check in at events, booking hotels, assure the team binder with player cards, rosters, and medical releases are picked up and with the team at each event or game.
TEAM PRACTICES
All outdoor practices will be typically scheduled at Fort Missoula and schedules will be arranged between coaches and club directors. Sessions are typically held 2 or 3 times a week, Monday through Thursday, 4:30-6 or 6-7:30pm.
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ADDITIONAL TEAM FORMATION DETAILS
There are NO “cuts” at the U12 age level.
We also try to make as few “cuts” as possible at throughout the U13-U19 age levels, but in some cases they cannot be avoided.
Our aim is to form Premier and Select level teams, providing all players an appropriate playing and learning environment.
We encourage player movement between teams. This includes movement between Premier and Select and between age groups.
Within the competitive age levels we aim to make the most competitive teams possible, which may mean a combination of age groups
Important: All players are required to tryout with their rightful birth year unless previously approved by the director.
Important: If a player wishes to play in an older age group, they may indicate that to the coaching staff. The club Director will consult with the coaching staff in determining whether to grant any such request based on evaluations and recommendations of such player. However, please note that all play-up determinations will be made by the club Director and not by coaches or other parties.
A player’s grade level in school does not have any implication as to what age group they play with. We follow the US Soccer birth year guidelines, and if a player wishes to play up they must receive permission from the club Director.
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