Academy Top Ten Criteria & Basis for Coaching Curriculum

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1. Kicking - Distance, accuracy, preferred & non preferred (number one priority).

2. Marking - Uncontested, contested, on a lead (strong hands in marking contests)

3. Clean hands - gathering loose balls and hard balls (without fumbling when picking up off the deck). Handballing is part of the clean hands criteria (effective handballing skills).

4. Game Sense - Decision marking, reading the play, identifying space & understanding structure

5. Character/Culture - General attitude, ability to listen to coaches, respectfullness and has a strong work ethic - etc.

6. Ability to win contested ball - gain possession off the ball as it is in dispute 50/50.

7. Defensive techniques - Tackling, corralling, and spoiling (best players usually don't defend well, teach it).

8. Spread - Offensively and defensively from contests  (must run hard to play the modern game).

9. Competitiveness - On and off field is essential to be the best.

10. Intensity – 2nd & 3rd efforts, change of speed & defensive effort.