Idaho Youth Soccer Association have been introducing TopTekkers to the clubs in their region, so we thought it would be good to see what they’ve made of it so far. We spoke to Skyler Bell, IYSA’s State Technical Director, to discuss their implementation process along with their organization’s view on development and how TopTekkers can play a vital role in players reaching their potential. 

Organization name: Idaho Youth Soccer Association

Located in: Boise, ID

Formed: 1979

Number of clubs in IYSA: 35

TT: How long has your club/org been using TopTekkers?

SB: Just starting, but excited to get going!

TT: Which age groups/players in your club/org are using TopTekkers?

SB: Our 2003 - 2008 players.

TT: How will you implement TopTekkers within your club/org? 

SB: All ODP players will get an account, and be organized in their teams. I will give challenges as the State Technical Director, but they will compete within teams.

TT: Why did you get TopTekkers for your players?

SB: Especially with the stay-at-home order, everyone needs an extra push to get outside with the ball, some guidance on the best way to perform various techniques and it connects us competitively, even when we can't be together. I love that competitive motivation!

TT: What do you personally like about the app?

SB: It's simple and intuitive to navigate and the video for each technique makes each step clear. And, like I said, I love the challenges.

TT: What’s your organization’s development philosophy?

SB: Ultimately every player is responsible for their own development, but as coaches/guides it's our job to engage with each player wherever they are at and help them take the next step forward.

TT: Why is practice important? (Away from the training field)

SB: 2-3 hours a week just isn't enough time for players to reach their potential, but that's what most get for formalized training. Additionally, while at team training each player has a very important resource that they will only have during that time (a group of teammates and a coach), so coaches need to utilize that time for game-like activities. But it's outside of those trainings that each player can invest in themselves, especially their technical development.

TT: Describe the perfect IYSA player? A player that embodies your organization on and off the field? What does that player look like?

SB: First and foremost, they are smiling because they love the game. They are great teammates, but also great opponents because they compete fiercely but respectfully. They believe they are responsible for their own development, so they train hard, and are always trying to improve each aspect of their game. 

For more information on Idaho Youth Soccer Association, please visit idahoyouthsoccer.org