Director of Coaching

Identifying the "Elite Player"
By Mark Hamilton, RSSC/RYSL Director of Coaching

There are many components that make up the “elite” level player. Each position calls for different abilities. While some players have good technical skill, others have speed, and still others can knock a long ball or are good in the air. Is it any one thing that makes a player elite? The answer, of course, is yes...and no!

While some players have impressed coaches by doing one or two things better that their peers do, other players may be good over a wide range of abilities. The key component for all players is the ability to control the ball and be comfortable with it when in possession. This is the first thing a coach should look for when evaluating talent.

Choosing players for any team is a question of balance. Coaches must try to blend the consistent and the brilliant. The following is a list of terms that identify what coaches should be looking for in elite level players. While each coach has/his own preferences in looking for talent, these components should be considered in selecting players.

Touch on the ball: Does the players have control over the ball with both feet? Can he/she make the ball do what he/she wants while in possession? Does the player look comfortable with the ball under pressure?

Balance: Is the player in control of his/her body? Is the player able to change direction in a controlled manner with the ball?

Technical Speed: How fast does the player control the ball and play it? Does the player have the ability to use their skills quickly?

Physical Speed: Is the player fast? Does the player have enough speed to be effective without being exploited by opponents?

Size and Strength: Is the player physically able to play with bigger opponents? Is the player’s size the reason for his/her success (especially at younger ages)?

Coachability: Can the player carry out a directive from the coach? While many young players are tactically weak, a good player will be coachable, and therefor will have the ability to develop good habits.

Workrate: Is the player willing to push himself/herself to the limits? Does the player attack and defend?

Awareness: Does the player see good opportunities to pass/dribble/shoot? Does the player have vision of what’s happening on the field or does he/she make the game difficult?

Reaction to Failure: How does the player respond to a bad call or mistake? Does failure result in a drop in performance?

Leadership Qualities: Does the player communicate to others? Does he/she demand the ball? Will they take charge when the game is on the line?