Learn Soccer with Rafi
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💰$50 weekly lessons
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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Happy Student Score: Not available
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Years Playing: 10 years
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Given: 5 lessons
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.
Reviews
Total reviews5
Average rating
5.0
Jelani de Jesus
Level: Beginner•Lessons taken: 50
Coach Rafi Haydari was an incredible coach throughout my soccer training. His expertise and enthusiasm made every session both challenging and enjoyable. He was always attentive, encouraging, and focused on helping me improve my skills step by step. What really stood out was his ability to motivate me, even when things got tough, and his belief in my potential pushed me to work harder. Coaching with him not only improved my game but also boosted my confidence on the field. I’m truly thankful for the amazing experience and guidance Coach Rafi provided.
Mike Blake
Level: Intermediate•Lessons taken: 35
I had the incredible opportunity to be coached by Coach Rafi Haydari, and I can confidently say he is an amazing coach. His patience and dedication stood out from day one. No matter the skill level or challenge, Coach Rafi always took the time to explain concepts clearly and ensured I understood each step before moving forward. He creates a positive and encouraging environment that made learning enjoyable and motivating. His passion for the game and genuine care for his players truly inspired me to improve and never give up. I’m grateful for his guidance and the confidence he helped me build on and off the field.
Alison
Level: Beginner•Lessons taken: 28
Coach Rafi Haydari was fantastic to work with! He’s patient, knowledgeable, and really cares about helping his players improve. Every session was fun but also challenging in the best way. He helped me build my skills and confidence step by step. I always looked forward to training with him because he made soccer enjoyable and rewarding.
Johnny shanoz
Level: Expert•Lessons taken: 20
Coach Rafi Haydari is truly one of the best coaches I’ve ever worked with. His passion for soccer and commitment to his players shine through every practice. He’s patient, supportive, and knows exactly how to break down skills so they’re easy to understand and apply. With Coach Rafi, I always felt motivated to push myself and improve. He creates a positive atmosphere where learning feels natural and fun. I’m grateful for all the guidance and encouragement he gave me during my time training with him.
Alvis mahan
Level: Expert•Lessons taken: 18
Working with Coach Rafi Haydari significantly improved my technical skills and understanding of the game. His coaching style is clear and methodical, ensuring I grasped every concept before moving forward. He’s incredibly patient and always tailored sessions to my individual needs. Thanks to him, my ball control, passing, and overall game awareness have grown tremendously.
Locations
These are the locations I've set as being able to provide lessons:10 locations available
Outdoor soccer field
3705 Buttercup St
999.9 miles awayOutdoors
Sway Street Soccer Fields
6731 Sway St
1004.9 miles awayOutdoors
Wheeler Fieldhouse
16403 Lexington Blvd
1011 miles awayOutdoors
New Territory Soccer Field
6539 Adobe Trails Dr
1012.7 miles awayOutdoors
La Player Soccer League
13709 Player St
1002.1 miles awayOutdoors
Sorrels Field, Houston Christian University
0940970000004
1001.5 miles awayOutdoors
RISE Soccer Club: South Campus Field #3
10001 Stella Link Rd
999.5 miles awayOutdoors
Soccer City Complex
13500 Dunlap St
1004 miles awayOutdoors
Paparruchos Indoor Soccer
7115 Clarewood Dr
1000.5 miles awayOutdoors
Sandhill Soccer Field
Sandhill Dr
1013.1 miles awayOutdoors
Want a lesson at your home or a different location? We can help.
Availability
These are the times I've set as being available for lessons.sundays
8 AM - 8 PM
mondays
8 AM - 8 PM
tuesdays
8 AM - 8 PM
wednesdays
8 AM - 8 PM
thursdays
8 AM - 8 PM
fridays
8 AM - 8 PM
saturdays
8 AM - 8 PM
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!
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Soccer with Rafi H.New to TeachMe.To