February 17th - On a cold Sunday afternoon the Dayton Dutch Lions Women’s program held their first try out for the 2013 season. A total of 52 players tried out for both the W-League team and the U20 team.
“I am extremely satisfied with today’s turn up, we were able to triple last year’s numbers and I think that is a good sign about how serious the club is taking the women’s program this season, it is our goal to build a strong and competitive roster and I saw some good talent at the try outs today” was the reaction of the W-League head coach and women’s program director, Sid van Druenen.
The day started with a 15 minute presentation about the club, both programs, what the club expects from its players and what players can expect from the club. After that the players went outside for a general warm up. For the 45 minutes practice session, the players were divided in 4 groups and started working on passing, turning and 1v1. A 40 yard dash followed and the practice session ended with some possession games. Several 11v11 scrimmages followed the practice session.
“When I look at players, four things are fundamental: speed, first touch, decision making and their attitude, so that is also what I am looking at today. The drills we used during the practice session are ideal for me to see those things” was Coach Sid’s explanation on why he used those drills. He concluded “Full sided scrimmages have to be part of any try out, being able to see the players in their natural position, on a full field, and real game situation, is the best way to judge if they will fit the style of play we want to implement next season.”
In the next few days players will be contacted to join the teams and news about new signings will be announced soon. For information about the Dayton Dutch Lions women’s program please contact s.vandruenen@daytondutchlionsfc.com or keep your eyes on our website and facebook page.