Seven Pillars of the Smithway Player Development Program

Smithway Curriculum Hub

The Smithway Player Development Program is built around seven core skill pillars. Each section gives players a progressive path to improve confidence, control, decision-making, and game-ready technique.

Smithway Pillars

Foundation Footwork

Ball mastery, balance, rhythm, change of direction, and comfort with the ball.

View Foundation Footwork

First Touch Juggling

Touch quality, coordination, aerial comfort, and soft receiving habits off the ground.

View First Touch Juggling

Ball Striking

Passing, shooting, driven balls, clean contact, plant foot habits, and body control.

View Ball Striking

Body Position & Receiving

Receiving shape, body angle, scanning, playing forward, and first touch into useful space.

View Body Position & Receiving

Ball Protection

Shielding, holding position, protecting the ball under pressure, and buying time.

View Ball Protection

Reading the Game

Decision-making, how to read a defender and pick the right move.

Reading the Game

Aerial Control

Controlling balls in the air, bouncing balls, headers, sole wedge, and bringing the ball back into play.

Coming Soon Aerial Control

How to Use This Curriculum Hub

1. Select Your Pillar

Pick one core skill pillar based on your current needs or follow our recommended progression path.

2. Train with Focus

Dedicate quality time to the drills and habits within your chosen pillar to build real technical confidence.

3. Build Collectively

Once mastered, return to the main Smithway Player Development Program to discover how new skills translate in games.

Choose one pillar, train with focus, and return to the Smithway Player Development Program to keep building the complete player.

Return to Smithway Player Program

Go to Member Hub

Start with Foundation Footwork