As we enter the Spring 2025 season with the New York Red Bulls U13 team, Head Coach Juan BijKebbe is excited to continue working with a group of talented players born in 2012. This age group marks an important phase in their development, and the goal is to create an environment where they can thrive both as players and as individuals.
The U13 level is about becoming brilliant at the basics. This includes strengthening technical skills, improving tactical awareness, and instilling the values that define what it means to represent the New York Red Bulls. At this stage, we emphasize the importance of being proactive, both with and without the ball, and encourage players to make decisions quickly and confidently in high-pressure situations. Individual Development Plans (IDPs) remain a key component of our approach, as they allow us to tailor feedback and guidance to each player's unique needs. The objective is to help them take ownership of their own growth.
Competition is integral to development, and this season will present numerous opportunities to test ourselves. Whether it’s league play or tournaments against elite academies, the focus will be on continuing to evolve while staying true to our playing identity. We are looking forward to KHS Cup in Malta- where players can benchmark themselves against top international competition while experiencing a new culture.
This season is a new chapter for our players and staff, and Woodberry is excited to help guide this group as they take their next steps in their soccer journey. Together, they’ll strive to uphold the values of the Red Bulls Academy and continue building a culture of excellence.