Making the Best Choices When Scouting Youth Soccer Players

Aimed at youth coaches and scouts seeking to improve their player selection decisions, this intermediate course examines the key factors that distinguish talented young footballers and how they are likely to develop over time. It covers the biological and physical differences between young players, including growth and maturation processes, adolescent growth spurts, and the concept of talent development. Participants also explore practical tools and strategies for identifying prospective players and understanding the path to expertise, including deliberate practice and deliberate play theories.

Delivered entirely online by António Figueiredo — Dean of the Faculty of Sport Science and Physical Education at the University of Coimbra and holder of a Ph.D. in Sport Sciences focused on youth football — the course comprises 18 lessons across six sections and is available through Soccer Hub. It is self-paced with unlimited access and includes assessments. No formal certification is listed for this particular course.