Above is an article published by footballtricks.com. It raises the interesting topic of "one versus two-footed players" in youth soccer. This subject evokes many differing opinions, which is why it is a relevant issue for discussion and thought among coaches.
Obviously, there is a huge advantage to a kid being comfortable and confident using both feet in soccer (these points are highlighted in the article). And, like a language or anything else, there is great benefit to teaching ambidexterity at a young age. However, this topic is...not challenged but let's say "further considered" by coaches at the highest level in this country and around the world (this was evident at the National, Advanced-National, and Premier Coaching Courses in Ft. Lauderdale this January).
Teaching proper technique for both feet is imperative, especially at a young age. But many top level coaches, especially foreign ones, think American youth coaches try to shape, mold, and forcefully fashion players too much. Players are born with certain skill sets and some are fortunate enough to be naturally remarkable in particular areas. Many top level coaches believe that although we do need to encourage proper and ambidextrous technique, we should never risk stunting a player's organic talents, especially if they are extraordinary. In Brazil, the majority of "youth soccer" is played in the streets without any coaches yelling at the kids to use both feet (and of course we all know that the Brazilians are considered to be the most technically sound players in the world). And in England and other European countries, the lack of ambidexterity at the international level manifests itself in a general deficiency at the left midfield position (many countries share the joke that if you are a left-footed player, you are immediately qualified to make the national squad as a left-winger). Watch the World Cup this summer and although the vast majority of players will be profoundly technical with both feet, I think you will be surprised to find that a handful of individuals blatantly favor one side over the other.
Read the article and consider your own stance on this issue. There is no right or wrong answer. Personally, I always, always, always encourage young players to become comfortable with both feet and often put them in situations or exercises where they learn the huge advantage of being ambidextrous in any situation. I am a big advocate of possessing the ball with fast, simple play, and clearly the ability to naturally use both feet makes a player much quicker on offense. But, although I want to enhance a player's skill set, I try to make sure that I never impede the natural development of a player, especially if it is exceptional and helps distinguish the player.
I hope you find the article interesting and enjoy thinking about this topic. Don't be afraid to disagree with anything I have written. I simply wanted to throw out a number of opinions and also offer my own.
