The athletes in this group have developed mature fundamental skills as well as the capacity for a more detailed understanding of the game. Cognitive skills are quite advanced for players in this age group allowing for abstract thought (if a player does “X”, then I should do “Y”). Seniors have increased capacity to solve problems, and as a result they can learn and apply both basic and more complex aspects of the game. Athletes at this age are much more aware of their own skills in comparison to others around them. While their memory and attention span are improving, it is important to allow them to further develop their concentration and perseverance by giving them opportunities to practice singular drills for specific positions.

The i9 Sports instruction plan for Seniors focuses on helping players develop a high level of comfort with the sport while giving them opportunities to master their individual skills. Activities are fast-paced and designed to capitalize on the higher capabilities of this age group. Because of the increased awareness of differences in talent level among players of this age, emphasis is placed on helping each player make the most of his/her individual abilities. There is full integration of team play at this level. Our coaches and instructors increase the complexity of drills and teams run more complex plays. While the level of competition is higher here than among our younger age groups, play among Seniors is still focused on fun and is maintained in a healthy, age appropriate framework.

In recognition of their higher level of maturity, we provide our Seniors opportunities to develop their leadership skills (such as leading warm ups) and communication skills as they learn to work together as a team. Rules of the sport are enforced for standard game play.

By the end of the season, your Senior athlete should be able to demonstrate a greater mastery of the game in terms of both knowledge and application of the sport fundamentals. With improved skill level comes a higher degree of self-confidence and pride in one’s individual capabilities as well as one’s place as a vital team member. In addition to enhanced physical abilities, Senior players also show improvement in their cognitive awareness as they learn to make individual and team decisions under time pressure and to anticipate the offensive and defensive strategies of their competitors.

As with all age groups, we emphasize and recognize sportsmanship values such as teamwork, humility, listening, and respect among our Senior players. One of our main goals for our oldest age group is to teach our players how to be leaders of good character, not just on game day, but in other aspects of their daily lives. We want them to take the lessons they’ve learned on the field and apply them in the classroom, in their homes, and beyond.