Zoo City Summer Classic + 15-Minute Daily Habit for Elite Players

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My goal with every email is simple: to share my passion for youth soccer and the community that makes it thrive.

I hope you enjoy it, and I’d love to hear your feedback.

Coach’s Corner: “Rondo to Goal” Transition Game

Purpose: Train quick transition from possession to attacking with purpose.

Setup

• 10x10 yard grid ~20–30 yards from goal

• 4–5 attackers vs 1–2 defenders in the rondo

• 1 extra “recovery” defender near goal + GK

How it works

• Play a 4v1 or 5v2 rondo (2–3 touch max).

• On coach’s whistle or after 5–6 passes, the team in possession bursts out of the grid and attacks the big goal.

• Rondo defender(s) + recovery defender sprint back to defend (2–3 defenders vs attackers).

• Play to a shot or clear win, then reset.

Coaching points

• First look: play forward quickly out of the rondo.

• Explode into space, stretch wide, and drive at the goal.

• Defenders: recover fast, stay compact, and slow play down

Parents’ Corner: The 15-Minute Wall Routine

One of the easiest ways to help your player at home is still a ball and a wall. Dribbler Soccer recommends using a wall as a “partner” to sharpen passing, first touch, and reaction time through simple repetition. (Dribbler)

Here’s a simple routine: 75 passes right foot, 75 left foot, 75 alternating—about 15 minutes total. Done 5 days a week, that’s at least 1,125 extra touches per week, likely closer to 2,000 once you add first touches and mis-hits. No cones, no equipment—just consistent reps that quietly build real skill.

NEW: 2026 Zoo City Summer Classic | May 30-31 | Asheboro, NC

Girls Team of the Week: FC Montour - U12 Girls (2025)

Boys Team of the Week: NU United Cannons - 2016 Boys

Nominate Your Team for a Spotlight

We feature two programs every week — reply with your team’s story.

Community Spotlight: Morgan’s Message

Morgan’s Message is a non-profit organization dedicated to amplifying conversations around mental health within athletics, which is inspired by the life and legacy of Morgan Rodgers. Since its founding, the organization has worked to break the current stigma surrounding mental health by empowering student-athletes, coaches, parents, and communities to prioritize mental well-being alongside physical performance in sports.

Gratitude goes to the leadership, ambassadors, and volunteers who continue to advance this mission and have safe spaces that everyone can feel honest in. The dedication of this nonprofit is creating a meaningful impact across schools, teams, and communities nationwide. Athletes, parents, and supporters of youth, collegiate, and professional sports are encouraged to get involved with Morgan’s Message, as the organization is doing meaningful, life-changing work for athletes everywhere.

Join Us in Growing the Game

If you know a coach, parent, player, or fan who would enjoy this, please forward it along and invite them to subscribe.

And if you ever want to share feedback, reply to this email — I read every response.

Here’s to Building American Soccer Together.

Warmly,

Colin Gorini
Founder, UnitedGoals USA
[email protected]
unitedgoalsusa.com