HSC - FAQ

HSC Team Camp FAQ

Why do we need a team camp?

Over the past few years, the Directors of Coaching have determined there is an overall lack of understanding regarding the tactics necessary to play at a higher level. This is compounded by the way we are forced to train our teams with minimal space and time to cover the necessary topics during the regular season. We have decided a camp environment with focused training on purely tactical information will provide the necessary “kick start” to our season and provide our players with effective information directed at their own position.

How does this camp differ from the other camps in the Southeast?

Through our personal experience, we have witnessed big and small programs throughout the Southeast and concluded that the information provided is not designed to offer the information we are prepared to provide. This is mostly due to the fact that the camps are run by a “big name coach” from a local University or some other similar institution but the actual coaching is done by college students with little or no coaching experience or education based background. These camps typically provide skill work and continuous touches on the ball (which are individual topics). Coach John Tesema, Director of Coaching HSC, holds our camp with help from our Assistant Director of Coaching, Henry Mpagi. Coach Tesema will provide the necessary curriculum and personally participate in every aspect of the camp.

What will the players learn during this experience?

Players will functionally train in very small groups. This means they will train according to their position on the team. Most players will attend two sessions to cover two different positions. The players will have their position broken down into small and digestible segments to allow a broader understanding of their role as a player and teammate. This is the only camp of it’s kind that we are familiar with as most camps deal with general aspects of the game due to the large numbers in attendance. This camp will provide the specific and relevant information needed to perform at the highest level.

What are the Coaches credentials?

Full credentials are listed on our website (click here) but here are a few headlines: USSF A License, Masters in Physical Education, Ethiopian National Team player, Div I college player, Div I college coach, and many player and coaching awards. There is not another coach in Alabama with equal credentials. (Not biased – just fact) Coach Henry Mpagi played for the Uganda Jr. National team, both Div I and Div II college, professional player with SC Villa and the EISL Fire team as well as many player and coaching honors.

Why are only certain teams invited to the camp?

These particular camps are designed for the older and/or higher level player. They work under the presumption that skill is not an issue but rather when and how to apply that skill under pressure with a team is the issue. Thus, our higher-level teams have been offered the invitation. As part of the HSC’s “Total Soccer Development” plan, we are achieving new heights with this camp. There is simply no time during the season to address the issues that will be presented during the camp in the same depth and with the same personal attention. More appropriate camp opportunities are offered for the Div II and III players.

Is the camp mandatory?

The camp is an integral part of HSC's Division I training package. The camp requires full attendance for obvious reasons: The entire plan is to increase the tactical abilities of the TEAMS. If there is any lack of understanding, the complete system will break down and all players will suffer due to the miscommunication.

What if the player can’t make the camp?

We realize there may be extenuating circumstances that prevent you from participating. A handout will be provided at tryouts detailing the camp and the fact that it is mandatory but it is possible that plans were made prior to knowledge of the player making the team. As such, the player is responsible for contacting the team manager and requesting a meeting with the coach to discuss options on alternative ways to get the required information.

What is the cost?

The camp is covered by HSC's Division I player fee which is collected regardless of participation in the camp. When compared to other camps, this camp has an hourly rate at or below competing camps and other camps will not begin to cover the same topics or provide the individual instruction. The coaching is unparalleled and the information is not available in any other public forum/camp.

Is this a proven method of success?

We have been doing these camps for six years. Perhaps it is coincidence we have accumulated 17 State Championships and 13 State Finalists in the past 6 years? You be the judge...... More than coincidence – we believe this incredible preseason camp provides the “kick start” necessary to hit the season “running”.