Ask a Coach: What Can I Expect from Classes?

Coach Rachel here, and I’m back to answer another question we’ve been receiving in our inbox. As you know, Tiny Troops Soccer has different classes for different age groups. These groups build upon one another, each level preparing your Tiny Trooper for the next step. From Mini Movers to our Advanced Skills class (available at some locations), we strive to help each Tiny Trooper develop into a competent player by the time they move on to recreational leagues. I’ve been a coach with Tiny Troops Soccer for just over 6 years now, and have had the opportunity to teach every level of class that we offer. Let’s break down each class and what you can expect for your Tiny Trooper.

Mini Movers (18m-24m)

Our Mini Movers class serves the youngest Tiny Troopers. This 25-minute class is designed for young children who are just beginning to learn about how their bodies move and function. All Tiny Troopers in this class must be able to walk. This class is Parent and Me, so a grown-up is always on the field. In this class, Tiny Troopers focus on learning to kick, dribble, and trap the ball. Class plans will also focus on gross motor skills that practice coordination and balance. Players will sing along with songs that build listening skills and encourage body movement. Every class wraps up with an obstacle course or bubble fun, and each Tiny Trooper receives a stamp for their participation.

2-Year-Old Class 

Our 2-year-old Parent and Me class is a step up from our Mini Movers class. This 25-minute class also focuses on learning to kick, dribble, and trap the ball. It will also introduce some more advanced skills, such as toe taps, penguin walks, and pullbacks, building on skills from Mini Movers, as well as gross motor skills. Players will sing along with songs to build listening skills, and an additional game to promote dribbling skills is added at this age. Every class wraps up with an obstacle course, bubble fun, or a dribbling race against the grownups. Each Tiny Trooper receives a sticker for participating.

3 and 4-Year-Old Class

Our 3 and 4-year-old classes are the first time that Tiny Troopers will be on the field without their grown-up. Classes at each location may be for 3-year-olds only, 4-year-olds only, or a combination of 3 and 4-year-olds. No matter the makeup, each class will follow the same class plan. Each class is 45 minutes long and builds on the skills learned in the previous two classes. In addition, more skills are added, such as pullbacks, penguin walks, top taps, rollovers, shooting the ball, and the Ronaldo Chop. At this level, each skill is given time for practice, along with a corresponding game. Activities will also include multi-step directions, building on listening skills. Our 3 and 4-year-olds will also get their first taste of a real soccer game, scrimmaging against each other in the 2nd and 3rd classes each month. Every child receives a sticker for their participation.

4.5-5-year-old Advanced Skills Class

Some of our locations offer an Advanced Skills class for 4.5 and 5-year-olds. This class is 55 minutes long, and the final class we offer as part of the Tiny Troops Soccer. This class helps prepare each Tiny Trooper to join traditional recreational leagues. As with other classes, this class builds on skills learned in previous ones. Players are expected to be able to follow multi-step directions as they complete activities and games. Passing, shielding, and throw-in skills are added to the lineup. Players learn to go beyond trapping the ball, instead learning how to cushion the ball. Scrimmages are played at the end of every class, and coaches provide feedback to players to help improve their skills. Throw-ins are used during scrimmages, instead of kicking the ball to return it to play. As with the other classes, every child receives a sticker at the end of class for their participation.

No matter the class, Tiny Troops Soccer aims to help your child learn the developmental skills they need to be successful, all while having fun being active. Whether your Tiny Trooper is just learning how to kick a ball in Mini Movers or preparing for recreational leagues in Advanced Skills, they’ll be supported every step of the way by coaches who care. Our goal is to make sure each child leaves the field smiling, feeling proud of what they’ve accomplished, and excited to come back for the next adventure on Soccer Island.

Ready to join us? Find your location today and watch your little one grow and learn with Tiny Troops Soccer!