Summer break is here, but that doesn’t mean your soccer game should take a vacation too. For Greater Firelands Soccer players, the off-season is the perfect time to grow your skills, build endurance, and fall even deeper in love with the game. We sat down with Coach Chris to talk about how to keep improving all summer long and how to have fun while doing it.

What’s one of the best ways players can keep improving in the off-season?
Coach Chris: Small-sided games like 3v3 are great. These fast-paced games push players to be creative, improve conditioning, and sharpen technical skills like passing and ball control. Grab a few teammates or siblings and head to the park.  Remember it doesn’t have to be formal to make an impact.

Any tips for solo skill-building?
Coach Chris: Absolutely! Juggling challenges, footskill games, and obstacle courses are all fun ways to stay sharp. These kinds of challenges not only help improve foot-eye coordination, but they also build a competitive spirit. You can even make it a group effort by keeping track your progress and encouraging each other to beat personal records.

How can players stay active when on vacation or traveling?
Coach Chris: Get creative! Take a ball to the beach and try dribbling across the sand— trust me it’s great for balance and endurance. Play soccer tennis in the yard, or organize a game of kickball with friends. It doesn’t have to feel like training to help you grow.

What mindset should players have when training during the summer?
Coach Chris: Work ethic is everything. If you stay consistent, your mind and body will start to develop muscle memory, and you’ll keep progressing. Training every day (even if it’s just 15 minutes) adds up. And if you’re doing something fun, it doesn’t feel like work at all.

Any final words of encouragement for our Greater Firelands players?
Coach Chris: It’s all about the love of the game. Get others involved!  Grab your friends, siblings, even someone new who wants to give soccer a try. Building relationships with people who enjoy training can help you stay motivated and grow faster as a player.

So whether you're juggling in your driveway or dribbling across the beach, remember: every touch counts. Keep the ball at your feet this summer, and come back stronger in the fall.

Drop a comment below with your favorite ways to stay active this summer!