Foundational Development

The SKILLJOY BOYS Program

More about the BOYS SKILLJOY Program

SKILLJOY BOYS Program

For 3rd-5th Grade (U9-U11) Boys

Trident F.C. spent the Spring’26 season piloting a revolutionary idea in how we approach soccer instruction. We saw significant success across a very talented group of U12 boys and are now looking to introduce this to other parts of our club. Specifically to our 2nd-3rd grade girls (U9-U10) and 3rd-5th grade boys (U9-U11).

The SKILLJOY Program is centered around skill development and nurturing a joy for soccer. The program aims to deliver Player Centric small-sided games (2v2s/3v3s/4v4s) to maximize individual skill development. This guarantees 600% to 1000% more touches on the ball and chances to learn the game well beyond what traditional 7v7 play has to offer. 

We prioritize Joy & Learning over Winning & Pressure to protect the player's confidence and development. With all matches played locally at our home facility, we aim to reduce the travel burden on families.

Grant Howard

Program Lead

How does this program work for U9-U11 Boys?

Does this replace the current league games my child is used to participating in?: No, each U9-U11 team is registered in a standard league where they will play games against outside competition. However, as we look to incorporate more of our SKILLJOY philosophy across our club we have introduced additional game opportunities to all of our club players in this age group. Weekly, on Thursdays, boys across all our teams are invited to participate in our SKILLJOY small-sided Smash!

Game Flow:

  • Format: 4v4 (or 2v2) games (including goalkeepers) on small-sided fields.

  • Teams: Players will be organized into mixed teams of similar skill levels.

  • Structure: Players will participate in multiple games, each lasting approximately 15 minutes.

  • Management: Games are player-managed with quick kick-in restarts. Coaches will only intervene to address safety or material penalties.

Why are we offering this?

Developmentally Appropriate: Instead of playing 7v7 (1 ball split between 14 players) at this age group, we prioritize individual skills and ball control 2v2s & 4v4s which allow your child to have 600% to 1000% more dribbles, passes, successes, failures and overall chances to learn the game.

We PRIORITIZE JOY & LEARNING over WINNING & PRESSURE: Unfortunately, 70% of all youth soccer players quit this sport in America by ages 13/14. Players cite the reasons behind quitting as “burnout” or “not having fun anymore”. This is a time to help promote a mentality where we as coaches and parents do not “joystick” our players, yell at them or tell them everything to do on the field. We do not yell on field directives because we believe that this steals learning, autonomy and joy from the player by adding pressure and prioritizing winning (development killer). Instead, we will aim to use “guided discovery” and help ask the “right questions” so that players can feel comfortable making mistakes on the field, understand that is part of the journey and reflect and learn from their mistakes. This protects the player's joy and supports their learning.

This format is a proven philosophy used throughout Europe to expedite player development. Benefits include:

  • More touches on the ball and increased attacking/defending repetitions.

  • Frequent 1v1 opportunities to practice new skills.

  • Faster decision-making and higher overall engagement.

  • Greater involvement for every player.

  • Encouragement of creativity and independent problem-solving.