This week, players learned that direct refusal is like playing strong defense. You stay focused, confident, and do not let pressure push you backwards.
During our group discussion, players talked about simple and confident ways to say no to things that could harm them.
- Say it immediately – state your NO right away
- Stand tall – use strong body language to show you mean it
- Skip the excuses – no need for long explanations
On the pitch, players practiced defensive skills by protecting their space and stopping their opponent from moving forward.
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The Play Smart, Live Strong initiative by the Northern Mariana Islands Football Association empowers our youth to make healthy choices on and off the field. Together with the Saipan Soccer School After School Program, we are using the power of soccer to promote substance-free lifestyles and reduce the risk factors related to underage drinking and marijuana use.
Every week we will share about our practical lessons, group discussion highlights, and soccer skills we learned to support our players as they Play Smart, Live Strong!
