The New Jersey Olympic Development Program (NJ ODP) Playing Philosophy is centered around a team-first philosophy, emphasizing the importance of working together and supporting each other on the field through the 1-4-3-3. The focus on the 1-4-3-3 formation means that players are trained to play in specific positions within this system, but they are also encouraged to be adaptable and able to play in different positions if needed. This can help players develop their versatility and understanding of the game and make them valuable contributors to the team.

In attack, the NJ ODP philosophy emphasizes quick ball movement and individual creativity in the final third of the field. This means that players are encouraged to move the ball efficiently and effectively, and to use their individual skills and decision-making to create scoring opportunities.

In defense, the team works to become compact and deny space to the opposition. This means that players work together to defend as a unit, closing space and making it difficult for the opposition to play through them. These principles can help players develop their defensive skills and understanding of the game and contribute to the overall success of the team.

The 1-4-3-3

The 1-4-3-3 formation is the formation that is used by NJ ODP teams at all levels of the game. It consists of four defenders, three midfielders, and three forwards.

Click here to view the basic principles of the 1-4-3-3 formation.