The CONMEBOL Influence on My Coaching Philosophy

The CONMEBOL Influence on My Coaching Philosophy

Growing up in Caracas, Venezuela, and training at Caracas FC, I was immersed in the dynamic and creative CONMEBOL style of soccer. That foundation has shaped who I am as a coach and how I’ve built the training culture at Texas Warriors FC.

So what is CONMEBOL, and how is it different?

CONMEBOL (South American Football Confederation) governs the game across South America and has produced some of the most skilled and passionate footballers in the world—think Pelé, Maradona, Messi, and Ronaldinho. What sets the CONMEBOL style apart is its emphasis on:

•    Creativity and individual expression: Players are encouraged to take risks, beat defenders 1v1, and solve problems with the ball.

•    Technical mastery: First touch, tight control, and unpredictable dribbling are hallmarks of South American training.

•    Mental toughness: From the streets to the stadiums, competition is intense. Players are taught to thrive in pressure-filled environments from an early age.

•    Game instincts and flair: The game is played with joy and freedom, but also with a sharp, instinctive understanding of time and space.

Who uses CONMEBOL-style training?

The CONMEBOL influence is embedded across South America—Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Colombia, and my home country Venezuela. But its impact has reached global academies. Top European clubs now scout heavily in South America because they value players who bring that creativity and street-smarts to the modern game. And more coaches around the world are intentionally weaving those philosophies into their own systems.

How does Texas Warriors FC apply it?

At Texas Warriors FC, we build technical artists first. Here’s how we do that:

•    Ball mastery starts every session: From warm-up to cool-down, players are constantly touching the ball—juggling, dribbling, manipulating it with all surfaces of the foot.

•    1v1 is non-negotiable: We prioritize weekly 1v1 scenarios in training, not just as drills, but as teaching tools for confidence, movement, and decision-making.

•    Free play & chaos: Our sessions include moments where players have the freedom to solve problems creatively—without rigid restrictions. We create environments that replicate the unpredictability of street football.

•    Competitive culture: Whether it’s a 1v1 battle or a team rondo, we challenge players to compete with intensity, discipline, and joy.

That’s the CONMEBOL spirit. And at Texas Warriors FC, we’ve found that blending this South American flair with the structure and tactics of other global styles creates well-rounded, intelligent, and fearless athletes.