Chicago parents know the drill: practice, tournaments, car rides, repeat. Competitive youth soccer in Chicago is about more than drills and game days — it’s about developing focus, resilience and a love for learning the game.
But what separates a good youth soccer player from one who truly stands out?
According to Thomas Cahue, Director of Coaching at Paris Saint-Germain Academy Chicago, it’s not just about talent — it’s about mindset, structure and the right environment.
PSG Academy Chicago is part of the global Paris Saint-Germain Academy network, known for developing youth talent through a proven European training methodology. The Chicago program combines elite-level instruction with a strong focus on player growth, both on and off the field.
“There are a few things that can make a good player a great player,” says Cahue. “Definitely being in the right environment.”
Skills grow where players feel supported
Cahue says parents often feel pressure to move their child to a bigger or more prestigious club — especially when their child shows talent. But he cautions against chasing names or facilities at the expense of a player’s comfort and development.
“If a child is in an environment where they feel good, they will develop into the best they can be,” he explains. “That emotional comfort leads to growth.”
At PSG, coaches create structure while also prioritizing a healthy, fun atmosphere. Mistakes are expected — and even encouraged — because they’re opportunities to learn and get better.
Concentration is a game-changer
Physical ability will only get players so far. What sets the best apart is how well they stay focused in the moment and think ahead.
“Concentration and awareness are two key words for us,” Cahue says. “You need to be aware of where your teammates and opponents are. If I get the ball, what am I going to do with it? Where can I drive it? Where can I pass it?”
To build this focus, PSG coaches start each session with an emotional check-in, asking players to rate their day from 1 to 5. This helps players leave stress behind and become mentally ready to play — a subtle but powerful tool in keeping kids engaged and present.
Structured training that builds real-world skills
At PSG Academy Chicago, training sessions follow a carefully designed format:
- A quick “activation” game to help players shake off their day and get focused
- Technical skills work with high repetition and lots of ball contact
- Tactical small- and medium-group play based on a specific game scenario
- A larger scrimmage to evaluate how well players understood and applied the day’s topic
This full-spectrum approach gives players the foundation they need to succeed in competitive youth soccer — both technically and mentally. Players are expected to reflect on their own progress and development each session.
“A good coach always asks, ‘What did you learn today?’” says Cahue. “That keeps players on their toes.”
Exposure to different coaching styles prepares players for the next level
In elite training, players don’t just learn from one coach — they experience a range of coaching styles, feedback and expectations. This is no accident. PSG builds this into its program to help players build adaptability.
“We want players to be able to perform even when they’re with a different coach or new teammates,” Cahue explains. “That’s what it’s like at the college level, the national team level — and we want them ready.”
Real success stories, real opportunities
PSG Academy Chicago’s results speak for themselves.
In just their second year competing in the PSG Cup, teams from the Chicago program won two out of five divisions, placed second in one and took two third-place finishes — a major leap forward from their first-year performance.
Beyond tournament wins, individual players are taking their skills to the next level. Some have gone on to play at the collegiate level, while others have pursued professional opportunities — both in the U.S. and internationally.
“It’s players that grew up at PSG and now they’re performing at a professional level,” Cahue says proudly.
What parents should know
Not every child will go pro — and that’s not the point. But if your child is passionate, coachable and ready for a challenge, the right competitive youth soccer program can help your child grow as a player, build confidence and love the game for life.
“The best thing you can do is find a program that’s structured, supportive and focused on long-term development,” Cahue says. “That’s where the real transformation happens.”
This content is sponsored by Paris Saint-Germain Academy Chicago. Learn more at psgacademychicago.com.
