In soccer at age 8: effort and fun come first, results come last

A football coach asked if to divide 8-year old children in three group based on motor skill levels cause problems?

Dividing 8-year-old children into three groups based on motor skill levels in soccer is problematic for several reasons, especially in light of the theories on youth sport development formulated by Jean Côté, a leading scholar in sport psychology.

1. Contradiction with the Positive Youth Development (PYD) model

Jean Côté developed the Developmental Model of Sport Participation (DMSP), which promotes sports participation based on fun, inclusion, and diversification during the early years (particularly up to age 12). According to Côté:

“In the sampling years (ages 6–12), children should engage in various sports with an emphasis on enjoyment and deliberate play rather than early specialization or performance-based selection.”
(Côté, J., Baker, J., & Abernethy, B. – Practice and Play in the Development of Sport Expertise, 2007)

Dividing children by skill level at age 8 places too much emphasis on early performance, which undermines the inclusive and playful environment Côté considers essential.

2. Risk of exclusion and loss of motivation

Grouping children by ability can lead to:

• Stigmatization of those in the “lower” groups.
• Reduced self-esteem.
• Lower long-term motivation.

According to Côté, a competitive environment too early often leads to dropout from sport, while one focused on fun and participation fosters continued involvement and the gradual development of motor skills.

3. Underestimating individual developmental trajectories

Motor skills at age 8 are highly variable and influenced by many unstable factors, such as physical development, play opportunities, and family support. Côté emphasizes:

“Early ability is a poor predictor of long-term success in sport.”
(Côté & Fraser-Thomas, 2007)

Selecting or dividing children based on these early abilities is not predictive of their future potential and can instead limit opportunities for late developers.

Conclusion

Grouping 8-year-old children in soccer based on skill level goes against the principles of positive youth development promoted by Jean Côté. Such a practice:

• Reduces enjoyment and inclusivity.
• Encourages early exclusion
• Relies on unreliable criteria for long-term development.

A better approach would be to promote mixed-ability play, variety, and exploration, allowing skills to develop naturally in a supportive and motivating environment.