Pod training helps players feel a part of something bigger than themselves.

At MCSA, we are continually looking for ways to enhance our training environment and provide our players with the best opportunities for growth. This season, we’ve implemented pod training, an approach designed to foster individual development in a more flexible, engaging environment. While it’s a shift from traditional methods, the results speak for themselves, and it’s proving to be an exciting and effective way to meet the developmental needs of our players.

What is Pod Training?

Pod training breaks away from the traditional team-only format. Players are divided into smaller groups (or “pods”) based on skill level, position, or specific developmental needs. These pods rotate through different stations, each focused on a particular aspect of the game. Every Wednesday, we have three training sessions:

• U16 and above: 3:30 to 5:00 PM
• U9 to U12 teams: 5:15 to 6:30 PM
• U14 teams: 6:30 to 8:00 PM

During each session, players are split into smaller groups and rotate between 3 to 6 stations. Each station covers a specific area, such as technical skills, tactical understanding, or physical conditioning. We also include a station focused on agility, mobility, and speed training to ensure players develop well-rounded athletic abilities.

Why Pod Training Works

Developmentally Appropriate: Pod training ensures that players are grouped based on their developmental needs, which allows for more personalized coaching. High performers can be pushed and challenged, while players who need additional support receive targeted attention. This structure provides the right balance of competition and skill-building.

Creating a Sense of Community: One of the most exciting aspects of pod training is the sense of community it creates. With up to 100+ kids on the field at once, players feel like they’re part of something much bigger than just their team. They see the entire club working together toward the same goals, which fosters camaraderie.

Flexibility for Players and Families: Not all players can attend practice at the same time due to school schedules or travel distances, particularly for our high school-aged players. Pod training gives us the flexibility to ensure that players who can’t make earlier sessions still have a developmentally appropriate environment to train in later in the day. This ensures that all players are engaged and improving, regardless of their schedules.

Challenging High Performers: For older players, particularly at the U14 and above levels, pod training is an excellent way to challenge those who are ready for more. High-performing players can test themselves against tougher competition and earn opportunities for playing time based on merit. It’s a great motivator for players to push themselves and take ownership of their development.

Managing Expectations

Introducing pod training has been a shift from the traditional model, and we recognize that some parents may have questions. We want to emphasize that pod training is designed to meet each player’s individual needs. This approach might look different from what parents are used to, but the results are clear: players are developing faster, gaining confidence, and becoming more adaptable.

As our club president Shane Huff, explains, “Pod training allows us to focus on individual growth while building a strong sense of community. Every player has the chance to develop at their own pace, and it’s incredible to see how much they’re improving in this environment.”

The Role of Coaches and Directors

Pod training also allows our coaching staff and directors to get to know every player in the club. By working with different groups each week, our coaches gain a deeper understanding of each player’s strengths and areas for improvement. This system ensures that no player gets lost in the shuffle, and everyone receives the attention they need.

As Coach Hector Toscano puts it, “With pod training, we’re able to see the full picture of each player’s development. It’s not just about team tactics; it’s about making sure every child grows and progresses as an individual.”

Looking Ahead

We’ve already seen how pod training benefits our players, both on and off the field. It’s fun, it’s engaging, and it’s effective. The energy on the field during Wednesday sessions is contagious, with players working hard and enjoying the game alongside their peers.

As we continue to move forward, pod training is becoming a cornerstone of our development model at MCSA. It’s a long-term investment in the growth of our players, and we’re excited to see how it helps them reach their full potential.

Learn more about our player development philosophy. Reach out to Club Administrative Director Ian Fitzpatrick with questions.