Soccer lessons with
Rafi Haydari
From$42.52 per lesson
•
Soccer lessons with
Rafi Haydari
From$42.52 per lesson
•✨Rafi is new on TeachMe.To – but very experienced with soccer. We strictly vet every instructor so you can book with confidence. Satisfaction is guaranteed. If anything go sideways, we'll switch you to a different coach or give you your money back.
✨Rafi is new on TeachMe.To – but very experienced with soccer. We strictly vet every instructor so you can book with confidence. Satisfaction is guaranteed. If anything go sideways, we'll switch you to a different coach or give you your money back.
About your soccer coach
For over a decade, I've cultivated a love for soccer in players of all levels. My experience fosters both skill development and a lifelong appreciation for the sport. Join me, and let's unlock your full potential on the field!
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Teaches: Kids, Teenagers, Adults, Seniors
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Levels: Beginners, Intermediates, Experts
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Lives in: Houston, Texas
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Years Playing: 10 years
Rafi's availability
Find a location and time that works for you
Rafi's availability
Find a location and time that works for you
Availability on all locations
Near Houston, Texas
No availability for this date
Didn't find a time or location that works with Rafi?
We can suggest similar coaches or arrange a different spot (even at home)
We can suggest similar coaches or arrange a different spot (even at home)
Accomplishments
➕Travels to you
➕With a strong foundation as a former professional player for Trabzonspor in Turkey, I bring elite-level experience and insight to the field. Over the past several years, I have served as a dedicated coach for Rise Soccer Club, working with players across all skill levels — from beginners who are new to the game to advanced athletes and aspiring professionals. My approach emphasizes technical development, game intelligence, and confidence-building, tailored to meet each player’s individual needs. I take pride in creating a positive and challenging environment where players can grow both on and off the field. Whether introducing the fundamentals to young athletes or refining the skills of high-level players, I strive to inspire a love for the game and a commitment to excellence. My dual experience as a professional player and versatile coach allows me to effectively guide and develop talent at every stage of their soccer journey.
Reputation
✨Rafi is new on TeachMe.To – but very experienced with soccer. We strictly vet every instructor so you can book with confidence. Satisfaction is guaranteed. If anything go sideways, we'll switch you to a different coach or give you your money back.
Beginner training plan
Your first lessonWhen working with beginners, my focus is on building a strong foundation in both skill and confidence. I create a supportive and encouraging environment where players feel comfortable learning at their own pace. Each lesson is structured to introduce fundamental techniques — such as dribbling, passing, shooting, and basic game rules — through fun, engaging, and age-appropriate drills.
Lesson 11+Improved confidence on the ball
More consistent passing and ball control
Greater understanding of spacing and movement
Lesson 4-10Lessons 4–10: What Beginners Can Expect
By this stage, players are beginning to build comfort with the ball and can now start learning more detailed skills, positioning, and game awareness. Here’s a general breakdown of progression
Lesson 2-3My goal is to make each session enjoyable while gradually building the technical and mental skills needed to grow as a player. By creating a solid starting point, I help beginners gain the tools and mindset to continue progressing in the sport with confidence.
Advanced training plan
Your first lessonHow I Approach the First Lesson with a Beginner
1. Start with a Warm Welcome
I begin by introducing myself, asking their name, and getting to know a little about them — have they ever kicked a ball? Do they play any other sports? This helps build trust and ease any nerves.
2. Set Clear, Positive Expectations
I let them know the goal is to have fun, learn, and improve at their own pace. I reassure them that it’s okay to make mistakes — that’s how we grow.
3. Simple Assessment Through Fun Activities
Instead of formal testing, I use light, playful drills to get a feel for their coordination, comfort with the ball, and movement. For example:
• Dribbling in open space
• Passing against a wall or to me
• Basic control exercises
4. Introduce the Ball and Basic Skills
I teach foundational skills like:
• Dribbling with both feet
• Stopping the ball (using the sole)
• Short passing
I explain each skill simply, demonstrate it, then let them try. I correct gently, focusing on encouragement.
5. Use Games to Reinforce Learning
I include a game like “Red Light, Green Light” (for dribbling control) or “Follow the Coach” to keep the session fun and active. These reinforce skills without pressure.
6. Keep It Short and Positive
For younger beginners, I keep activities short (5–7 minutes each) and energy high. I watch for signs of fatigue or frustration and adapt in real time to keep them engaged.
7. End on a High Note
I always finish with something fun — maybe a shot on goal, a game, or a skill they enjoyed. I give specific praise (e.g., “Great control with your left foot!”) and tell them what they’ll learn next time.
Lesson 11+ Continued practice to sharpen all foundational skills: dribbling, passing, shooting, and ball control.
• Working on weaker areas identified in earlier lessons.
• More repetition under varied conditions to build muscle memory and confidence.
Advanced Techniques Introduction
• Introduction to more advanced moves (e.g., feints, body fakes, shielding).
Lesson 4-10What Beginners Can Expect from Lessons 4–10
Lessons 4–5: Strengthening Fundamentals and Introducing Pressure
• Reinforce core skills: dribbling, passing, stopping the ball.
• Start light pressure drills — dribbling while a coach or partner applies gentle defensive pressure.
• Introduce simple turns and changes of direction (inside/outside cuts, step-overs).
• Begin small partner passing drills focusing on accuracy and control.
• Short, fun games that encourage applying these skills under slight pressure.
Lesson 2-3Focus:
Comfort on the ball, understanding how to control and move it, and developing foot coordination.
Youth players
Working with kidsAdapting lessons for kids is essential to keep them engaged, learning, and having fun. Here’s how I approach coaching when working with younger players:
I keep instructions clear and short, avoiding complex terms. I always demonstrate what I want them to do and use visual cues or fun comparisons (e.g., “stop the ball like a superhero landing!”).
Working with teenagersWorking with teenagers requires a different approach than with younger kids — one that respects their growing independence, challenges their skills, and keeps them motivated. Here’s how I adapt my lessons when coaching teens:
Increase Challenge and Intensity
Teen players are ready for more complex drills and higher physical demands. I design sessions that push their technical, tactical, and physical limits while still allowing room for individual growth.
What you need to bringThe students needs to bring their soccer shoes and and the ball.
What I can bringI provide all necessary equipment, so players don’t need to bring anything
Frequently asked questions
Cancellation Policy
We totally understand that life can be unpredictable and plans might change. That's
why we've got your back with our flexible cancellation policy, designed to give you
peace of mind when booking private sports lessons with our awesome local instructors!
If you need to cancel your lesson, no worries! You can get a full refund if you cancel within 24 hours of making your booking. We want to make the process as hassle-free as possible for you.
And if you simply want to reschedule your lesson, change the date and time, or adjust the number of students joining, we've got you covered there too. You can easily make these changes within 24 hours of booking, and up to 72 hours before your lesson starts.
Our goal is to make your experience smooth, enjoyable, and worry-free. So go ahead and book with confidence, knowing that we're here to accommodate your needs every step of the way!
If you need to cancel your lesson, no worries! You can get a full refund if you cancel within 24 hours of making your booking. We want to make the process as hassle-free as possible for you.
And if you simply want to reschedule your lesson, change the date and time, or adjust the number of students joining, we've got you covered there too. You can easily make these changes within 24 hours of booking, and up to 72 hours before your lesson starts.
Our goal is to make your experience smooth, enjoyable, and worry-free. So go ahead and book with confidence, knowing that we're here to accommodate your needs every step of the way!
RH
Soccer with Rafi H.New to TeachMe.To