Assessment Center

U8 Fundamentals Check

U8

5

Criteria

20

Minutes

30

Max Points

Instructions

  1. 1

    Observe each player during a normal practice session.

  2. 2

    Score each criterion 1–5 using the rubric descriptions.

  3. 3

    Avoid scoring during first 5 minutes while players warm up.

Scoring Rubric

Dribbling Control weight 1×

"Can the player keep the ball close while moving?"

1
Not Yet — Ball rolls away immediately; player cannot keep possession while moving.
2
Developing — Keeps ball for 1–2 touches then loses it; uses only dominant foot.
3
On Track — Dribbles 5+ yards without losing ball; mostly uses dominant foot.
4
Confident — Dribbles around a cone; attempts both feet with some success.
5
Excellent — Smooth dribbling around multiple obstacles using both feet naturally.
Passing Accuracy weight 1×

"Does the ball reach its target within 1 step?"

1
Not Yet — Ball misses target by more than 3 yards consistently.
2
Developing — Ball reaches target area but requires partner to chase most passes.
3
On Track — Passes reach target within 1–2 steps at 5 yards.
4
Confident — Accurate passes to a stationary target at 8 yards.
5
Excellent — Consistently accurate passes at 8+ yards; beginning to pass to moving teammates.
Shooting weight 1×

"Does the player strike with purpose toward goal?"

1
Not Yet — Toe-pokes or misses the ball entirely most attempts.
2
Developing — Strikes ball but with no direction control; rarely on target.
3
On Track — Ball reaches goal area on majority of shots from 8 yards.
4
Confident — On-target shots from 10 yards; starting to select a side.
5
Excellent — Consistently on-target; chooses a corner and executes from 12 yards.
Effort & Attitude weight 2×

"Is the player engaged, trying hard, and responding to instruction?"

1
Disengaged — Consistently off-task; refuses to participate in most activities.
2
Inconsistent — Participates when directly prompted; loses focus frequently.
3
Engaged — Mostly on-task; responds to coaching cues after one reminder.
4
Enthusiastic — Active, willing, and responds immediately to instruction.
5
Outstanding — First to try new skills; encourages teammates; asks questions.
Coordination & Balance weight 1×

"Does the player move fluidly without stumbling?"

1
Struggling — Frequent stumbles or falls; difficulty stopping and starting.
2
Developing — Some stumbles; stopping takes extra steps; stiff movement.
3
Age-Appropriate — Runs without falling; can stop within 2 steps.
4
Athletic — Smooth acceleration and deceleration; quick direction changes.
5
Exceptional — Fluid, balanced movement in all directions; rare for this age group.

Score a Player

Running Score —