From Wednesday, July 23 to Friday, July 25, we held the "Futsal Skill Up Summer Clinic" for 1st and 2nd grade elementary students at Kodaira Citizen's General Gymnasium!
[Day 1]
We started with a meeting! We reviewed the schedule for the three days, the clinic's goals, and the promises.
The training theme on the first day was "Techniques to Take the Ball Away."
During the meeting, we used slides and videos for a preview, and the players engaged with serious expressions.
Many of the children were meeting for the first time and seemed nervous at first, but they quickly warmed up during the icebreaker, and many players actively participated in speaking.
In training, they put into practice what they learned in the meeting by actively challenging themselves with “stealing” movements. During the games, although they were a bit confused by the unique futsal rules (substitutions and back passes) for the first time, there were many moments where they applied the skills they had learned.
After finishing, we thoroughly reflected in the waiting room. We wrote down "what we could do," "what we couldn't do," and "what is needed for next time" in our booklets.
Even with unfamiliar tasks, everyone worked hard together with the coaches!
[Day 2]
The theme of the day was "Techniques for Carrying the Ball."
We especially challenged the “late dribble” (deliberately slowing down to break through with the foot farthest from the opponent).
There were some signs of confusion with this technique being heard for the first time, but by watching videos to grasp the image, their understanding gradually deepened.
In the gymnasium, training progressed step-by-step in the order of drills → one-on-one → matches, gradually increasing the level.
Even with difficult techniques, it was impressive to see everyone concentrating and working seriously.
During the review on Day 2, more players were able to write smoothly compared to Day 1.
Some players said, "I reviewed it at home!" which showed their strong desire to improve!
【Day 3】
The theme of the final day was "Techniques to Score Goals."
This time, we practiced futsal-specific shooting techniques such as toe kicks, instep shots, and second post shots. When we introduced that Motoki NAGAKURA from the top team often uses the toe kick, everyone’s motivation went up with "I want to try it!"
In training, there were difficult points such as how to vary your kicks depending on time and space, and how to move in front of the goal, but everyone thought carefully and took on the challenge.
In the final match, many players were seen actively trying to use what they had learned over the three days. Even when not playing, they encouraged their teammates, deepening their teamwork!
After the training ended, we looked back while checking the booklet on "how close we got to our goals" and "what we worked hard on." At the end, there was a surprise message video from Kento HASHIMOTO! A big cheer erupted, and we were able to conclude the clinic with smiles♪
For three days, they worked hard with the mindset of "taking care of themselves" not only on the court but also off the court.
It was impressive to see them carry their own belongings until the very end and greet each coach individually before leaving.
We look forward to seeing you even stronger and more improved!
