This is often a dilemma that coaches face when a player is either technically gifted or far superior in physical presence than kids in their own age group.

Sometimes these players don�t face much of a challenge when they play in their own age group and parents can often want their �star� to move up a year.

What would you do?

Quite often the players aren�t adequately consulted as part of this decision.

Research has shown that players often feel a sense of pride at being asked to play a year ahead of themselves, however what they really want is to play with their mates or school friends.

If they do make the leap they can feel a bit overwhelmed and any slight wobble in the step up in grade can knock the confidence and leave the players feeling like a bit of failure. So consider this carefully if you do allow them to step up.

A safer option could be to ask the coach in the next age group if they would allow the �star� to initially train with the older players and see how they fair.

Competitive games would be played within age group, but training with older players may advance their development without the pressure of having to perform in games.

One last thought, don�t let your own reasons (selfish or not) prevent any player who really could step up to a higher grade.

Think about what�s in the best interest of the player for their own soccer development.