My Warmup Conundrum

‍I am part of a club where it has been established that all age groups do the same FIFA 11 warmup.

The Youth Academy program (U8-U11) is a selection of the players who possess the drive to reach the higher levels of youth soccer through their development. This is the program that I oversee.

What I like about the FIFA 11 warmup is:

1. Looks professional
2. Gives the players a routine to follow - The players know what to do when they get to the field before practice starts.
3. Sets the tone for training.

At the same time, I struggle with all of the above. Here's why:

1. When I watch groups performing the warmup, they seem to just be going through the motions.  Many times the execution of each exercise is done at half speed or poorly executed....almost sloppy.
2. While I feel the movement patterns are beneficial to raising the heart rate while providing the proper 'stretch' a player might need, I believe there to be a better way....especially for 8-11 year olds.
3. If the rhythm, excitement level, attention to detail of the warmup is less than ideal, the wrong tone will be set for training.

Ask a youngster (a soccer player in this case) what excites them. They will say:

1. Playing games
2. Scoring goals

So, if we put them in a controlled environment doing something drill and rote (which by definition means routine; a fixed, habitual, or mechanical course of procedure), we are potentially setting the table for the development of a young player in a box....no creativity.

I choose to think differently; to create a free-flowing environment where players are given the freedom to make decisions.  Tag games (either with or without a ball).  Remember, kids want to play games.  Every kid knows tag.  And there are hundreds of different tag games you could play.  
Not much explanation needed, instant engagement from the players, immediately the heart rate gets elevated and after 5-10 minutes you get two of the most important things:

1. An engaged and smiling player
2. A youngster ready to play

Which option seems more of a sure thing in a warmup?

1. Something regimented and choreographed - outcome questionable
2. Something free flowing and fun - outcome less questionable/more guaranteed

I chose the latter...