A couple more things that I have noticed that hinder an team.
All teams have clicks, girls who have been with the team longer, friends from the neighborhood or school mates, higher level skilled players on the team as opposed to bench players, and I am sure I am not stating other reasons for girls forming clicks. As a result , sometimes you can notice that some players won't pass or play a teammate in a better position. Doesn't like the player or doesn't want the player to outshine them, or just want the glory. I see it all the time, with boys its usually different as they tend to understand the end game is to beat the other team, boys usually don't hold grudges if you prove you are there to give it you best. Boys punch it out and then move on. Girls hold grudges and well, its hard to understand them. At least as a father.. they continue to be a mystery. Minimize the clicks, and team unity is usually pretty good.
Playtime should be earned, not given. I see alot of AYSO where the bench has to play because they shouldn't just ride the bench. I understand that if my DD rode the bench. Hey she needs her minutes, especially during a game. Realistically, unless your DD is a solid bench player that can hold her own with a starter, just happens that they have a deep roster, and earns her playtime, with minimally affecting the team chemistry. The answer would be if she is not, then to move such a DD to next flight down, or possibly the age up but flight down. You'd be surprised how often playing up against olders actually help. Adding a bench player to the field and replacing a starter, just for minutes, might help the bench player, but does it really help the team. I know everyone pays on club but this shouldn't be AYSO. Playtime should be earned.
I am sure if I had more time, there is alot more we can state about getting equally dedicated players. like stated before, that is a holy grail of a team.
Lastly about Baker, from experience. He is blessed with amazing athletes, very good soccer players. His results are very impressive. His style and demeanor has results. I know plenty of D1 level DD's who don't want to just win. They want to improve their game. Long ball works in HS and club because you can use athletes who match up favorably. Enough opportunities and eventually you get the goals and wins. I won't say it resembles the beautiful game. However when you really just want the team that can win, albeit win ugly. Baker's team do win. My DD was scouted and offered a position from Mr. Baker, we decided that the travel and our commitment to his ways were not compatible. He did not like this. His behavior when you are on his side is good, once you don't agree, he becomes a very childish man. Luckily we found a great coach who mentored my DD and got her a great D1 offer. Winning is nice, but winning beautiful is better.
