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U11 Curriculum Manual

Contents

Introduction • What soccerplans.com is about • Disclaimer – modification may be necessary • Credit and acknowledgements

Characteristics of U10, U12, and U14 Soccer Players • What is developmentally appropriate training? • Information about what U10, U12 and U14 soccer players are

able to do physically, cognitively, and socially. Age Group Curriculum • U6 – U18 curriculum document outlining when players should be

introduced to different techniques and tactical ideas. I’ve included the entire curriculum to provide a reference of where the players have been and where they should be going!

Developmental Philosophy • Suggested guidelines on playing time, starters, and having

players play different positions to maximize skill development and FUN!

Player Development Tips • More information and tips about how to successfully implement

the developmental philosophy Methods of Coaching • Information about how to coach during a training session

Curriculum Overview • A few words about the age group curriculum • Listing of the plans included

Practice Plans • All the practice plans in PDF format for the age group curriculum

Thanks for checking out this soccerplans.com resource! The mission of soccerplans.com is to provide developmentally appropriate soccer activities and coaching information to youth soccer coaches, for free! Check out the soccerplans.com website for: • Practice plans • General soccer coaching information • A forum to ask and answer questions • Links to other great resources • Much more! Email me with any questions, comments, or suggestions for improvement! Matt Callahan [email protected]

***Disclaimer*** This document is meant to be a coaching guide. You as a coach may have to make modifications based upon your team's ability level. Several different factors will influence a team's ability including (but not limited to):

• Geographic location • Weather: It’s tough for some players to train in snow…. • Competition: Areas with a lot of teams/clubs can foster a very competitive

environment thereby raising the overall level of play in that area. • Experience level of the players

• Have they been exposed to the game previously by playing themselves or through a sibling or fiend playing?

• Player dedication • How hard do the players work in and out of practice to improve their skill level.

Depending upon the maturity and skill level of your players you may need to modify individual practices, add or delete practices, or adjust age groups (use the U12 curriculum if you have a VERY talented U11 team for example). If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact Matt at [email protected].

Credit and Acknowledgments! I learned most of the ideas presented within through my attendance at the US Soccer and US Youth Soccer coaching education courses. Much of the information can be found by reading the "US Youth Soccer Player Development Model: A Player Centered Curriculum for US Youth Soccer Clubs" which was prepared by Sam Snow, the Director of Coaching for US Youth Soccer. I would highly recommend reading the document in its entirety. It can be downloaded at www.usyouthsoccer.org or the soccerplans.com website.

Characteristics of U10, U12, and U14 Soccer Players

Children are not miniature adults! Youth soccer players do not have all the physical, cognitive, and social abilities that adult soccer players have. Developmentally appropriate activities take into consideration what players can actually do and base training around those abilities. These characteristics are from the “US Youth Soccer Player Development Curriculum”1. All children differ (+/- up to 3 years), these are merely general characteristics!

U10 Lengthened attention span - they are still in motion, but not as busy, only holding still long enough for a short explanation • More inclined toward wanting to play rather than being told to play • Psychologically becoming slighting more firm and confident • Some are becoming more serious about their play • Team orientated - prefer team type balls and equipment. Enjoy the uniforms and team

association. • Boys and girls beginning to develop separately • Developing the pace factor - thinking ahead • Gross and small motor skills becoming much more refined

U12 • Better able to deal with flighted balls • Can sequence thoughts and actions to perform more complex tasks • Can use abstract thought to meet the demands of the game • Should be able to simultaneously run, strike the ball and think • Full of eagerness to learn • Important psychosocial implications for a child entering puberty • Popularity influences self-esteem • Improved coordination • Significant physical differences exist between the genders now • Strength and power becoming factors in their performance

U14 • The more advanced U14 players are able to execute a range of skills, but most others are

still developing previously taught skills are now being exposed to these additional skills • Important psychosocial implications for a child entering puberty - early or late • Popularity influences self-esteem • Tests limits - a know-it-all attitude • Full of eagerness to learn • Tend to be quite self-critical and may need regular positive reinforcement • There will be significant different in physical maturation rates between individuals • Rapid growth spurts of the skeleton leave ligaments, tendons and muscles catching up, so

coordination and balance are astray. Temporary gangly movement may result in a loss of touch on the ball. Players do not always make the connection between their growth spurt and the temporary loss of form; they need help realizing that everything will come back into sync in six to 18 months.

1 Us Youth Soccer Player Development Model: A Player-Centered Curriculum for US Youth Soccer Clubs. Prepared by Sam Snow, Director of Coaching for US Youth Soccer and the Coaching Education Department, available for download at www.usyouthsoccer.org.

SoccerPlans.com Age Group Curriculum

Age Group Technical Tactical Physical/Psychological

U6 1 practice for every game Ball/Player Ratio = 1:1

Ball size = 3 Practice length= ≤ 45 mins

Dribbling with various parts of the feet – Striking the ball – Turning while dribbling

What do the out of bounds lines mean – Which goal to attack – No positions, instead reference a shape (triangle)

Movement education taking place within the practice (balance, jumping, twisting, etc.) – Sharing – FUN!!

U7/U8 1 practice for every game

Ball/Player Ratio = 1:1 to 1:2 Ball size = 3

Practice length= ≤ 60 mins

Reinforce previous skills – Juggling – block tackle – receiving ground balls with the inside of both feet – shooting with the inside of the foot – dribbling and changing directions – intro push pass

Intro to “lines”, a back line and a forward line -‐ 1v1 attacking (dribble vs. pass)

Play games that promote agility, eye-‐foot and eye-‐hand coordination, balance, etc. – Players will begin to be able to work in pairs

U9/U10 2 practices for every game Ball/Player Ratio = 1:1 to 1:4

Ball size = 4 Practice Length= ≤ 75 mins

Reinforce previous skills – Dribbling for speed – passing with the inside and outside of the feet – instep drive – receiving ground balls with the outside of the foot – receiving bouncing balls with the instep, inside, and outside of the feet – dribbling fakes

Reinforce previous tactics – 1v1 defending – roles of 1st attacker and defender – 2v1 attacking – getting goal side – shape in three players – intro support play – play a variety of positions – principles of attack

Intro the concept of cooling down – Players can now work in groups of 3 and 4. Continue to reinforce sportsmanship – Nutrition

U11/U12 2/3 practices for every game Ball/Player Ratio = 1:1 to 1:6

Ball size = 4 Practice length = ≤ 90 mins

Reinforce previous skills – intro heading and crossing – moving throwing in – dribbling feints – receiving air balls with the chest and thigh – 1st touch receiving – outside of foot passing – receiving with either foot – passing with both feet – introduce chipping and volleying (1/2 and full)

Reinforce previous tactics – 2v1 defending, 2v2 attacking and defending, roles of 2nd attacker and defender – man to man defense – combination passing – support play – verbal & visual communication – half-‐time analysis – wall pass – principles of defense

Players should know how to warm-‐up and cool-‐down. Self-‐motivation – how to learn from each match

U13/U14 3 practices for every game Ball/Player Ratio = 1:1 to 1:7


Reinforce previous skills – introduce bending balls – chipping to pass – variety of crosses (placement) – ½ and full volley shooting – heading to pass – outside of the foot shot – intro chipping to shoot

Reinforce previous tactics – delay, depth, and balance in defense – compactness – 3rd defender role – recovery runs – support play – restarts – defending in the different 1/3’s – attacking in the attacking ½ – checking runs – takeovers – switching positions during play – zone defense – post match analysis – intro transition

Static stretching during the cool-‐down – fitness work with a ball – introduce the need to rest to recover

U15-‐U18 3 to 5 practices for every game Ball/Player Ratio = 1:1 to 1:10


Mastery of previous skills – position specific skills – Chipping to score

Reinforce previous tactics – able to adapt tactics during the run of play – rhythm of play – role of the 3rd attacker – principles of attack and defense – diagonal passing – overlapping runs – switching the point of attack

Time off for rest – soccer specific weight training

Info adapted from the “US Youth Soccer Player Development Model” by Sam Snow and the USYSA Coaching Education Department as well as the Madison Area Youth Soccer Association (MAYSA) Age Groups Curriculum: Developing Players Within the Team Concept which was written by Chris Lay and the WYSA directors of coaching.

SoccerPlans.com Developmental Philosophy Age

Group Playing Time Starters Playing Different Positions

Youth U6/U8

As equal as possible amongst all players

Starters are picked on a rotational basis – all players start an equal

number of games throughout season (as

equal as possible)

U6/U8 players should be allowed to play freely and not asked to play a position. At

restarts players can be asked to form a shape (triangle/diamond) but they shouldn’t be

expected to stay in that shape.

Youth U10

As equal as possible amongst all players



equal as possible)

U10 teams that play 5v5+GK’s will typically have a 3-2 (3 defenders, 2 attackers)

formation or a 2-3. Players should spend equal time being an attacker and defender.

Encourage GK play but don’t force players to be a GK.

U11 As equal as possible amongst all players



equal as possible)

Every player will rotate playing an attacking position and a defending position in every

game. Players willing to play GK will be rotated throughout the year and may receive

more playing time in games they play GK (for ½ the game).

U12 As equal as possible amongst all players



equal as possible)

Every player will play an attacking and a defending position in each game but not

necessarily equally. If the ability/preference of the players allows, players will play

approximately 2/3 of the game in their “best” position (determined by coach) and 1/3 of

the time in another position. Players willing to play GK will rotate throughout the season

and may receive more playing time in the games they play GK for a half.

U13

Some players will begin to play more

than others which may be influenced by the commitment to the team (attendance at practice/games) and

skill level

Some players may begin to start more games than

others. This will be based upon skill level

and commitment to team (will be outlined by coach

at pre-season parent meeting).

Players will begin to play a specific position. Players may still play other positions in

various game situations (winning by a lot) but not necessarily in every game. Ideally a few players will begin to standout as future

GK’s.

U14+

State League Teams

Players will play more than others

The starting line-up for each game will be based

upon player commitment and performance. Some players may start every

game and others may not or may take turns

starting depending upon their weekly performance

in training.

Players will play a specific position. In certain situations players may play other

positions but they will typically have a specific role they will play on the team.

Ideally the team will have two GK’s.

SoccerPlans.com Player Development Tips Below are some guidelines for the U11-U14 teams in regards to playing time and having players play different positions. I would highly recommend tracking this information somehow. Some coaches in the past have used a notebook to keep track of the games (starting line-up, who subbed for who, and half-time coaching points). I have begun to use a 3 ring binder so if it is raining I can just take my one sheet and not wreck the entire notebook. On a side note, it would not be a bad idea to keep track what you have done in practice. You can make notes about what went well and what didn't so you know what to do differently in future years and it can also help you in terms of liability (perhaps a player does a header incorrectly and becomes seriously injured...you could provide proof in your practice plans that the correct heading technique was taught on...).

U11 Starters: At U11 players should be starting games equally. I would recommend taking a roster and having the first 8 players start the first game. The next game pick up where you left off and have the remaining players start the next game. Once everyone that didn't start the last game is starting then go back to the beginning of the list and keep adding players until your starting roster is full. If you continue in this manner throughout the season eventually everyone will start the same number of games (or at least as close as mathematically possible). Playing Different Positions: Youth players should be exposed to playing a wide variety of different positions to improve their overall soccer development. Since most teams play a 3-3-1 (or a 2-3-2 or 2-4-1) I classify the positions as attacking or defending. If a player started a game as a defender and is subbed out then the next time I put them in they are either a forward or midfielder. This gives everyone a chance to play a variety of different positions. Players should continue switching back and forth in this manner throughout the game so they play each position equally. *****This is not something every club does and can make "winning" more difficult if the other team has their best forward/GK playing that position the entire game. I would highly recommend explaining the importance of long term player development at your parent meeting so parents understand doing this will help the players in the long run to be better. Goalkeepers: I used to make every kid on the team play GK. Once we had our GK coach start running team GK sessions for the U11/U12 players it became extremely evident to me that some kids lacked the fundamental catching ability or the basic mentality to be a GK. I have begun to ask my team which kids are willing to play GK. I reward them by telling them that in games they play GK they will play for one half and in the other half they will get to play more than the other players and they will get more of a say in which position they play. At the beginning of the year I establish a list of who wants to be GK and I rotate keepers from game to game just like starters (the first game the first two names on the list are the GK's, the second game the next to GK's on the list play...etc.).

Tips for Competing: Our main focus as a club is to develop soccer players. This is a long term goal which requires years of appropriate coaching to happen. While our main goal is to develop soccer players, that doesn't mean we aren't trying to win. When you establish your starting eight players, I would put a strong player at center defense, a strong player at midfield, and then filter in some of the remaining strong players at the other positions. This will give you a strong presence on the field regardless of where the other players end up. You most likely will have some strong players that don't start. When you substitute just make sure your put a strong player in when you take a strong player out. Players end up playing different positions which is good for their development but the better players typically end of playing centrally which helps the team do well.

U12 Starters: U12 soccer players should take turns starting games. Throughout the season players should rotate who starts so everyone starts about the same number of games. Refer to the U11 section for information about a good way to manage that. Playing Different Positions: At U12 players should still play different positions but not necessarily equally. To put a specific value on it I would say players should be playing 2/3 of the time at the position they are best at (hopefully the position they are best at is the position they enjoy playing the most) and 1/3 of the time playing other positions. A player could start at their favorite/best position, get subbed in later for a different position, and then end playing their favorite/best position. However, this is reliant upon having a proportionate number of players that enjoy being a defender, midfielder, forward, and GK. If that is not the case this system will have to be modified to fit the needs of your team. *****At this age you may have to start guiding players as to what position they are best at. Typically most young players love to score goals so many of your players may want to be a forward. Realistically, if a U13+ roster has 18 players on it you may want 6 defenders, 6 midfielders, 4 forwards, and 2 GK's. Mentioning something along those lines so a player that is a great defender but likes playing forward (and is the seventh best forward) will hopefully help them realize they would play/contribute a lot more as a defender. Goalkeepers: U12 teams should still have several different GK's. I would offer the same policy for U12 as what was offered at U11 (see who is willing to play and reward them with more playing time and a choice of where they want to play in the other half of the game they play GK in). Hopefully a few players are beginning to stand out potential future goalkeepers.

U13 Starters: At U13 some players may begin to start a few more games than others. This could be based on attendance at practice, player performance, a combination of both, or whatever system you decide. I would stress the importance though of communicating your

system for establishing starters with the parents at the pre-season parent meeting so they are well aware of what to expect as the season progresses. If you know you are playing a weaker opponent you could have some players start that may not normally get to do so (their morale will be much better which never hurts). At U13 though the same group of players should not be starting every game, it should be mixed up occasionally. Playing Different Positions: By U13 players should be developing a preference for a preferred position. Players can and should still play different positions, but not necessarily in every game. If a player is a great defender they could start most games as a defender and play defender for most of the games. Occasionally they should play as a midfielder or forward though to continue to improve their overall soccer development. You could have players play different positions when you are winning/losing by several goals, in tournament games that don't matter (you've lost the first game or two and don't have a chance to advance), or anytime just to mix it up. Goalkeepers: Ideally a few players will stand out as the top GK candidates. The top GK's can begin to get some specialized GK training so they develop the skills necessary to be a great GK. I would strongly encourage you to have at least two GK's if possible so if one misses (or moves or decides they don't want to play soccer anymore) you still have another option.

U14+ Starters: At the U14 level you can develop starters that will start most of the games. Be cognizant of starting players that are struggling and/or bench players that are improving and make adjustments as necessary. Sometimes it is good to just switch up a few players anyway (if they are equal in skill) to keep everyone working hard in practice to earn more playing time. Also, if you are playing an opponent you know is weaker it may not be a bad idea to mix the starting line-up a bit to keep the morale high of the players that typically don't start. Playing Different Positions: Most soccer players should have a position they play best at and enjoy playing by U14. If you are winning by a lot of goals it would probably be nice to switch the players up a bit. As players progress tactically they should begin to receive functional training (teaching players how to play in certain areas of the field, how to play a certain position, or how play as a team) which will require them to have a specific position they play. Goalkeepers: Basically the same as U13. Hopefully you have two strong players that are comfortable and competent playing GK.

Methods of Coaching – A Coach’s Toolkit 1,2 A soccer coach can "teach" in many different ways. The coach must decide which method is best to use at any particular time. Below are some common examples of when coaching takes place during a soccer practice as well as a discussion on each method. ***Coaches also need to keep in mind it is important for players to have some flow within a soccer practice as well as to have time to figure out soccer problems on their own. If the coach interjects too much in a practice the amount of learning can actually decrease. The methods are organized in the manner of the least disruptive to the training session on top to the most disruptive to the training session towards the bottom. 1. The Game is the Best Teacher: This is a popular saying of the US Soccer Federation.

Players do learn just by playing soccer with no formal coaching. The players gets touches on the ball which will help improve their technical ability and over time players will begin to figure out different ways to solve some of the soccer problems (tactics). A coach can manipulate different variables of a soccer practice though to emphasize a certain aspect of the game to improve learning. For example, requiring players to play 2-touch will force them to support earlier, get their body into a better position so they can play quicker, increase the speed of play, etc. Conditions and restrictions, even with no coaching, can encourage players to play a certain way!

2. Coaching Within the Flow: For this method the coach doesn't stop play but rather gives instructions to individual players, groups of players, or the team as the activity continues. This is an excellent way for coaches to convey information to the players without disrupting the flow of the practice. Coaches do need to make sure they are not giving instructions constantly or players will eventually tune them out.

3. Pull a player to the side: If a specific player could benefit from additional instruction the coach can stop that player and coach them while the rest of the players continue to play. The coach needs to be able to make the coaching points brief though so the player can join his or her team.

4. Coach at Natural Stoppages: Another time to give instruction without disrupting the flow of the practice too much is to coach at natural stoppages of the practice such as during water breaks, when the ball goes out of bounds, or if a player is injured.

5. "Freeze" Method: If a large number of players are having an issue with a technique/tactic the coach can use this method. The coach yells "freeze" and all the players stop moving. The coach can then address a technical issue or guide players to solve a tactical problem that presented itself. Because the players are frozen it can be easier for the players to see what their options are and to make a better decision. The freeze method used to be the most common and encouraged method of coaching but that has changed because when overused it can become very frustrating for the players as it disrupts the flow of the practice.

1 Us Youth Soccer Player Development Model: A Player-Centered Curriculum for US Youth Soccer Clubs. Prepared by Sam Snow, Director of Coaching for US Youth Soccer and the Coaching Education Department. Available for download at www.usyouthsoccer.org. 2 USSF “D” Candidate Manual. Available for download at www.ussoccer.com.

U11 Curriculum Overview Below is the listing of practices included in this curriculum packet. These practices were selected based upon the techniques and tactics that are listed in the ‘Age Group Curriculum’. The plans are listed as a resource only, feel free to modify the season plan as needed (a lot more plans are available at www.soccerplans.com). Also, I have listed the plans in this order as a sample way of spreading out practices on different topics throughout the season. As the coach, you may need to modify the order of the practices to fit your teams’ needs. And last, I have selected these practices in terms of what I feel is appropriate for the U11 soccer players in my area (northeastern Wisconsin). Our soccer season will typically involve 21 practices starting in late April and concluding in late June. You may need to add or delete practices based upon the length of your season. I hope this resource is useful to you! If you have any questions or comments please don’t hesitate to email me at: [email protected].

Matt Callahan

1. Dribbling for possession - Dribbling and turning1

2. Passing - Passing11

3. Dribbling to beat a defender - dribbling to beat a defender4

4. Goalkeeping – Goalkeeping Intro1

5. Defending - defending6

6. Receiving - receiving 3

7. Shooting - shooting 5

8. Intro receiving balls out of the air - receiving balls out of the air


10. Passing - passing 9 (vision)

11. Defending - cover defending1

12. Shooting - shooting1

13. Receiving - receiving4


15. Passing - passing1

16. Shooting - shooting4

17. Defending - defending12

18. Dribbling for possession - dribbling and turning4

19. Passing - passing2

20. Receiving - receiving 5

21. Shooting - shooting 8

In addition to the topics addressed in the practices above, the tactical ideas below should be worked into the scrimmage part of practices: Intro basic restarts, throw ins, positional play. Spend only as much time needed as for the players to be competent. The vast majority of training at this age group should be on improving technique!!!

© Fox Valley Soccer Training LLC (FVST) and soccerplans.com. Distribution prohibited without the consent of FVST and soccerplans.com.

DIAGRAM ORGANIZATION KEY COACHING POINTS

• Each player is dribbling and moving in a grid

• Set up several small gates throughout the area. Players dribble their ball through a gate and then turn to go back through it

• Inside cut, outside cut, sole pull under your body, Cryuff, step-over turn

• Keep a low center of gravity • Take shorter steps right before your turn • Can you act like you are passing/shooting

and then turn to “sell it” • Accelerate after turning

• Have 8 players play 1v1 in a 30 x 30 yard grid

• Players try to score points by dribbling through one of five small cone goals

• When players score they step on the ball and let their partner have the ball (progress to players scoring as many goals in a row as possible)

• All previous coaching points • Be patient, if a goal is blocked by the

defender turn with the ball and find another goal to attack

• Turn away from the defender as to not “show” them the ball

• Play 4v4 in a 30 x 30 yard grid • Place five 1 yard cone goals in the grid • Teams score points by dribbling through

one of the goals • Play for a set amount of time and then

switch who is playing who (assuming 16 players are at a practice)

• All previous coaching points • After turning can you score or complete a

pass right away • When to pass/when to dribble

• Play 4v4 in a 35 yard long by 50 yard wide field

• Each team has three goals to score on and three goals to defend

• Play for a set period of time • Progress to play a full-sided game on a full

field

• Be patient, when facing numbers down situations pull the ball back and switch the point of attack

SCRIMMAGE: Play an age appropriate scrimmage. Minimize coaching and let the players play and have fun!!

4v4

PRACTICE THEME: Dribbling for possession #1


DIAGRAM ORGANIZATION KEY COACHING POINTS • Groups of 4 passing and moving.

• Play 3v1 in a 10x10 yard grid. Both attackers and defenders can score. Attackers score by connecting x number of passes. Defender scores by winning ball and dribbling out of the grid. First to 2 points wins, then switch defenders.

• Passing technique (found on soccerplans.com video page)

• Qualities of a good pass (weight, accuracy, timing)

• Angle and distance of support – changes based upon amount of pressure on the ball

• 3v1 timed competition. Split the team into attackers and defenders. The coach lines up 3 soccer balls outside a grid and 3 defenders wait outside the grid as well. The coach starts a timer and the first ball is played to the 3 attackers and one defender enters the grid to defend. After the first ball is forced out or stolen then the defender tags the next defender in line and they enter to try to win/kick out the next ball. After the third ball is kicked out the coach stops the timer. Which team can possess the longest?

• Coaching Points: Same as listed above.

• Two teams of 5 play 5v2 in two adjacent 25x20 yard fields (total space of 25 yards wide by 40 yards long). In one grid the attacking team earns points for x number of passes. The other team sends 2 defenders to win the ball back from the 5 attackers. After winning the ball they play the ball to the other grid to their 3 waiting players and then join them. 2 players from the other team join that grid to play 5v2. Which team can get the most points?

• Same coaching points listed above. • Team shape with 5 players: Player with the

ball should have a supporting option on each side, one player stretching play as far as possible, and one player in the middle to help connect passes.

• Good body position and first touch to help increase speed of play.

• Play 6v6+Gk’s. Each team has 4 backs and 2 forwards. Ball must be passed across half line and then a back can join the attack. Progress to no restrictions.

• Pass/possess until the ball can be played forward.

• Patience • Shape


PRACTICE THEME: Passing #11 (Support)

Coach

4v2 4v2



Each player with a ball dribbling and moving in a grid

Demo different moves Lunge, double lunge, scissors, double

scissors, stepover, Matthews, Fake Matthews, Reverse Matthews, etc.

Change pace: slowerfaster Change direction Sell the move with your whole body

Play several 1v1 games in a 35 yard wide by 20 yard long grid

Assign specific goals that each player has to score on (not necessarily right across from each other, this will force players to keep their head up and be aware of their surroundings).

Keep your head up and see available space

After you beat the defender cut towards the goal to take away their recovery angle

Try a variety of moves to keep the defender guessing

Explode after the move and get to goal

Use the space from above (may need to be a little larger)

Play 4v4 to three goals Teams score by dribbling (two points) or

passing (one point) through a goal Play for a set time period

Possess the ball and look for 1v1 situations

Scrimmage full field All previous points Do not hesitate to take players on in the

attacking third of the field Make something happen


1v1

4v4

Scrimmage

PRACTICE THEME: Dribbling to beat a defender #4


DIAGRAM ORGANIZATION KEY COACHING POINTS • Players break into two groups, one group

forms a circle and holds a soccer ball while the other group is in the inside without a ball. The “GK’s” in the inside shuffle around to an outside person who plays them a ball. The “GK” catches the ball and then distributes it back. Play for 60 seconds and then switch inside/outside players. Vary the service in and the distribution back.

• Shuffle feet – don’t cross legs • GK stance • Picking up a rolling ball technique • Catching a ball below the waist technique • Catching a ball above the waist technique • Hand position • Secure ball after catching it • Distribution technique

• Break the team into groups of 8 and set up as shown to the left. The first person in the square line shoots at the circle GK. After shooting, the square player goes to become the GK and the other line (circle) gets a shot. The pattern is always shoot, GK, end of the line they came from. Set up multiple games if necessary to ensure maximum repetition.

• Technical coaching points for the different types of shot stopping

• Multiple surfaces behind the ball • Cheat step forward before the shot

• Set up several fields so the players can play 1v1 + GK’s on a 20 yard long by 15 yard wide field. When the ball goes out of bounds the opposing player get to dribble in. Switch who is playing who and who the GK’s are if they aren’t full time keepers. Use large cones or coaching sticks/corner flags to make the goals.

• Same as above but now play 2v2 (make field a little bit bigger)

• Progress to playing a 4v4 game on a smaller field to maximize shots on goal or finish with a game of “Dutch Shoot”.

• Coaching points listed above • Positioning in the goal


PRACTICE THEME: Goalkeeping Intro #1 (U10-U12)


DIAGRAM ORGANIZATION KEY COACHING POINTS • The team passes and moves with one ball.

Each time the ball is passed, the closest person to the player receiving the ball should apply pressure. Progress to the closest person applying pressure and the second closest applying cover. Can the covering defender intercept the next pass?

• COMMUNICATION – If it is not obvious who the closest person is someone needs to pressure and communicate that they are doing so (only want one pressuring)

• Jockeying after applying pressure • Cover angle and distance

• Play 1v1 in a rectangular grid. Teams are on opposite sides of the grid, starting next to cone goals and one attacking player starts near the middle by a cone. Play starts with a pass into the attacker who must turn and play. As the ball is being passed defender pressures. Play until a goal is scored or the ball goes out. Progress to 2v2

• Pressuring defender has to make up as much ground as possible as the ball is moving to the attacker. As they get closer, they need to break down in a defensive stance (slow down as well) and jockey the attacker.

• Approach at an angle to cut off the immediate shot (goal could represent an actual goal or a teammate in a real game).

• Play 5v5-1 (4 and a GK). Teams play 4v4 in the middle…but the defending team must drop a player back to their endline to make it 4v3. When the 3 win the ball they play it back to their GK or teammate on the endline and then the other team must drop a player back.

• Playing numbers down so an emphasis must be placed on making play predictable. Can the pressuring defender force the dribbler one way and cut off one (or multiple) passing options by applying smart pressure. The covering and balancing defenders adjust their shape to help win the ball back.

• Play a 6v6 to 8v8 game. Add the restriction that in order for a goal to count…all the attacking players must be in the attacking half (this will prevent “boot and scoot” soccer goals and will give the defending team time to organize).

• Communication • Balance – defenders can step forward to

compress the space IF the pressuring defender has good pressure (dribblers head down, can’t play a long ball). If a lack of pressure is present then the balancing defenders should drop back.


PRACTICE THEME: Defending #6



• Squares number off 1, 2, 3, 4… • Circles letter off a, b, c, d… • Groups stay in their half and pass

sequentially • Progressions: Use more than one ball at a

time for each team. Get rid of the middle line and have the two teams intermix.

Get in line of the flight of the ball Come to meet the ball Make an early selection in the body surface

to use Relax the controlling surface Control ball into space or away from

pressure Open body position to field while receiving

Play 3v3 in a 20-x-30 yard area Have one neutral player be on each sideline Neutrals can move along the sideline Points awarded for consecutive number of

passes Progressions: Progress to two neutrals being target players and points being scored by passes to target players

Get in line of the flight of the ball Come to meet the ball Make an early selection in the body surface

to use Relax the controlling surface Control ball into space or away from

pressure Open body position to field while rec. 1st touch allows shot, pass, or dribble

Play 4v4 No restrictions on players

Observe to see if session has helped with receiving ability

Play 1v1 in a large area with a 3 yard goal in the middle

Each player must remain in their own half The ball is served from behind the end line

and the other player must return the ball though the cones with only two touches

A point is awarded when the opponent is unable to return the ball in two touches

First person to 11 wins

Get in line of the flight of the ball Come to meet the ball Watch the ball Make an early selection in the body surface

to use Relax the controlling surface


PRACTICE THEME: Receiving #3

4v4


DIAGRAM ORGANIZATION KEY COACHING POINTS • Juggling warm-up to ensure legs are

loosened up and ready to shoot. Progress to players breaking into groups of 8 and set up as shown to the left. The first person in the square line shoots at the circle GK. After shooting, the square player goes to become the GK and the other line (circle) gets a shot. The pattern is always shoot, GK, end of the line they came from. Set up multiple games if necessary to ensure maximum repetition.

• Visit soccerplans.com and click on ‘Video’ to see a demonstration video on how to shoot the ball.

• Ankle locked (toes down) • Land on kicking foot when shooting for

power (swing through the ball) • Glance at GK before shooting to know

where to place the shot • Plant foot next to the ball • Strike the middle of the ball

• Set up several fields so the players can play 1v1 + GK’s on a 20 yard long by 15 yard wide field. When the ball goes out of bounds the opposing player get to dribble in. Switch who is playing who and who the GK’s are if they aren’t full time keepers. Use large cones or coaching sticks/corner flags to make the goals.

• Same as above but now play 2v2 (will probably have to make the field a little bigger)

• Same coaching points listed above • Use of fakes and feints to unbalance the

defender long enough to get around them and shoot.

• Shoot early, shoot often, take ½ chances…perhaps the ball will deflect off the defender, change paths, and then go in

• Play 4v4 on a 35 yard long by 25 yard wide

field (small to maximize shots taken). Have two teams playing and one resting. After 2 minutes the losing team (or winning, depending upon your team) is out and the resting team is on. Which team can win the most games?

• Shot selection (power vs. accuracy). Location on the field the shot is taken from (closer to goal typically calls for a more accurate shot). Also, how has the GK performed (very well = need to get a better shot off, poorly = shoot away)


PRACTICE THEME: Shooting #5



Set up a 25-x-35 yard grid Half of team on outside of grid (those players

need a ball), and the other half moving on the inside

Players on the inside show for a ball, receive a lofted pass, and then pass the ball back to the outside player

Switch inside/outside players Progressions: Specify what surface must be

used to control the ball (top of foot, wedge ball with inside/outside, thigh, chest).


to use Controlling surface goes out to meet ball Relax the controlling surface and withdraw

just before impact Challenge advanced players to take their first

touch in a direction (out of the air or by popping ball to feet and then wedging in a direction)

The triangles are cones, players are positioned in between cones (windows)

Place four attackers and two defenders (holding pinnies) on the inside

An outside player who has a ball (not all of them will) tosses a ball to an inside player who must control it and get the ball to another player on the outside who does not have a ball (they can use their other teammates)

If a pinnie player intercepts a ball the inside player that messed up switches

Rotate



just before impact 1st touch prepares for next touch

Play 4v4+ four neutrals and GK’s The crosses are GK, the neutrals can move

from cone to cone (cones are triangles) on the sidelines

Neutrals are holding balls, if a ball is passed to them they can toss the ball they are holding to anyone on the team that passed the ball to them

Progressions: Progress from make it, take it to having the GK defend cone goals



just before impact Encourage throws across the field


PRACTICE THEME: Receiving balls out of the air #1


DIAGRAM ORGANIZATION KEY COACHING POINTS • Players each have a ball and dribble around

inside a grid. Introduce different moves that could be used to beat a defender (scissors, lunge, etc.).

• Check out the ‘Video’ page of soccerplans.com for demonstrations of some different moves.

• Make a 15 x 15 yard grid and make a cone gate goal in the middle of each line. Two pairs play 1v1 inside the grid. To score a point a player has to dribble from inside the grid out through one of the goals. After scoring the other player starts with the ball and can score on any of the other 3 goals. Two pairs play and two rest, play for 60 seconds and then switch.

• Variation: When a player scores and the opposing player gets it, make the goal behind them worth 2 points and the goals to the side worth 1 point.

• Use moves, don’t just dribble by. Change direction and change speed after move

• Dribble at the defender so you can attack them either way

• Make a 18 yard long by 12 yard wide field and have 4-6 players on each field. Teams stand on opposite sides and each player needs a ball. The first pair plays 1v1. When a goal is scored or the ball goes over the endline, the defender is out and the next player in line from that side dribbles on. The player that was just attacking is now defending. Repeat!

• Dribble straight at the defender so you can beat them on the left or right

• Unbalance the defender with a fake (moves the ball) or feint (body fake) and then accelerate past them.

• Transition

• Make a 20 yard long by 35 yard grid and place 3 goals on each end. Start by having several 1v1 games going on in the same grid. A) Players can score on any of the 3 goals B) Players have a specific goal to score in C) Take the players in the grid and play 3v3 or 4v4. 3 pts. for dribbling through a goal and 1 pt for passing through.

• Having multiple players in one grid demands them to be more aware of their surrounds to see where open space is that can be exploited

• Team shape – wide, promotes spreading the team out which will create space to dribbling

• Check the space behind the defender – if no one is there then take them on.





• Everyone gets a partner and a ball. Set up several small gates (2 cones 2 yards apart) throughout an area (one more gate than pairs). The pairs get a point for passing the ball through the gate to their partner. Progress to having a few pairs (vary number based upon challenge needed) without a ball as defenders. If a pair steals a ball they get to keep it and the pair that lost it is now on defense. Have the defenders hold onto a pinnie that they drop when they win a ball.

• Ankle locked • Plant foot pointed at target • Kick with inside of foot • Wide surface=accuracy • Follow through in direction of target • Push pass=less than 25 yards • Always moving • Vision and communication – can you see

where the defenders are and play away from them.

• Play 3v3+2 to the gate goals. Teams score by passing the ball through a gate to teammate. Vary the number, position, and size of the goals to make the game easier or harder as needed.

• Ankle locked • Plant foot pointed at target • Kick with inside of foot • Wide surface=accuracy • Follow through in direction of target • Push pass=less than 25 yards • Always moving • Vision, verbal and non-verbal

• Play 3v3 or 4v4 to 3 goals. Each team has

an extra player or GK on their endline. The GK can stand in one of the goals and “close it” so the other team can’t score on it. The attacking team has to see where the “closed” goal is and quickly attack one of the other goals.

• Vision!!! Can the field players see where the “closed” goal is and attack one of the other goals quickly before the defending team’s GK can adjust and block a new goal.

• Quick passing and quick decisions • Deception – play a few passes on one side

of the field and then switch it to the other side quickly. Look one way then play the other.


PRACTICE THEME: Passing #9 (Vision)



Players are passing and moving in groups of three in a large space

On a signal the player that has the ball has to try to dribble in-between the other two players

• Play until the defense wins the ball or the player dribbles through the defense (then go back to passing automatically)

Verbal and non-verbal communication Approach quickly but in control Angle approach and push 1st attacker

towards covering defender Do NOT dive in • Angle and distance of covering defender

Play 1 v 2 in a 12 wide x 20 long grid Make a small cone goal so the defenders

have a reference point on where to funnel the attackers

The line of defenders serves the ball to the line of attackers and then pressures the lone attacker

Always go back to the same line, defenders get points for winning the ball

Switch lines after 4 points • Progress to 2v2

1st defender (pressuring defender): bend run in to force attacker one way, don’t dive in

2nd defender (covering defender): good angle and distance for cover (should be able to immediately pressure if 1st defender is beaten)

• Don’t chase when playing 2v2 (especially with overlaps)

Play 4v4 in a 40 wide x 60 long field Play for a set time period

Covering defender needs to be positioned so that they can cover the 1st defender should they be beaten also be able to intercept or immediately pressure any pass made to a nearby supporting attacker

• All previous coaching points

• Scrimmage 8v8 • All previous coaching points


4v4

8v8

PRACTICE THEME: Cover Defending #1



Everyone needs a ball Players must toss ball to themselves and

kick ball straight up in the air using their instep

Progress to partnering up and kicking ball back and forth using instep

Ankle locked Solid contact Follow through Watch the ball

Set up cones as shown, flags could be used for the middle cones as they are a goal (8 yards apart)

Circle shoots on the square GK, then goes to be the GK, after being shot on, he/she runs to the end of the square line

The circle and square line take turns shooting on the GK

Game realistic – roll the ball before shooting it

Accuracy over power find a low corner Follow through – at target and land on

kicking foot (if shot hard)

Set up two full-sized goals 36 yards apart, each goal has a GK and a server next to the goal

3 players are in the middle of the area The 3 players rotate in a circle taking

turns receiving balls from the servers, they must shoot one or two touch (one touch goal = 2 pts., 2 touch goal =1)

Switch players and which side the ball is coming from (left vs. right)


kicking foot (if shot hard) Watch ball when striking it

Play 4v4 in a 40-x-25 yard area A line of cones should be made

approximately 16 yards from each goal Teams get two points for scoring when a

shot is taken from the middle zone, and only one point for a goal made from anywhere else


kicking foot (if shot hard) Watch ball when striking it



Goals worth two points


DIAGRAM ORGANIZATION KEY COACHING POINTS • Players get into groups of 3, 2 players have

a ball and 1 doesn’t and is in-between the other players. The middle player checks to an outside player and is played a ball. The inside player receives it, plays it back, and then turns around and checks to the other player, repeat. See for variations!

• Receiving options: receive with inside across body & play with inside of other foot back, receive with outside across body and play with inside of same foot back, volley back, chest then volley, chest to settle then pass back, thigh to settle then pass back, thigh then volley, head back, etc.

• Players find a partner and play 1v1. Have half the team playing 1v1 in the middle of the grid and the other half spread out around the outside. The inside partner with the ball gets a point for playing the ball to an outside target and then getting it back. When the defender steals it, they are now the attacker. After 90 seconds switch inside/outside players.

• Get in line with the flight of the ball • Check your shoulder to see what is behind

you and then focus on the ball • Move to the ball until you receive it (if you

wait for the ball to come to you the defender will step in front of you and win it)

• Create space for yourself to receive the ball (check in then back out)

• Split a 45 yard long x 20 yard wide field into three thirds (each 15x20). Place 3 players in each third to start and play with one ball (start on an end). The players in the middle 1/3 are defending. One player moves into the end with the ball and tries to win it. The 3 players play 3v1 and keep possession until they can play it through the middle third to the other side (the middle team can try to intercept the pass). If the ball is played through then the team in that end keep possession and one of the middle players goes into that third to defend. When the defending team does win the ball they take the place of the team that lost it and that team is now in the middle.

• Play away from pressure (the defender) with your first touch

• Always keep the ball moving….never “trap” it

• If you allow balls to be played across to the other side in the air, players can practice receiving balls out of the air as well.

• Check out the ‘Video’ page on

www.soccerplans.com for videos demonstrating different ways to receive the ball.




DIAGRAM ORGANIZATION KEY COACHING POINTS • Make a grid and have each player with a

ball dribbling in the grid. Introduce different dribbling moves (lunge, V, stepover, scissors). Players dribble and on the coaches command do a move (change direction and speed)

• Head up when dribbling as much as possible (glance at the ball when taking a touch then glance up to see what is happening)

• Change of speed after doing a move • Change of direction after doing a move • Sell the fakes!

• Set up several 1v1 games on 10 yard wide by 15 yard long fields. Players score by dribbling across the opponent’s end line. Play for 60 seconds and rotate who is playing who

• TOURNAMENT: Set up several fields in a line next to each other. Play for 90 seconds. At the end, if the player won they move “up” a field and the loser moves “down” a field. The winner at the top field stays and loser at the bottom field stays.

• Dribble at the defender so you can take them on the left or right

• Do a move and then go! • Use of moves to unbalance the defender for

just long enough to get behind them • Be dynamic (deceptive, unpredictable) • When doing most moves, if done correctly

the dribbler’s body should be between the defender and the ball.

• Play 3v3 or 4v4 to endlines. The field can be made different dimensions to bring out different aspects of the game. Here the field is shown to be wider than it is long.

• Variations: To promote/force dribbling, add the restriction that no back passes are allowed. Also, teams could play make it – take it. When you score you turn around and attack the other side.

• Good team shape (spreading out wide and high) will create space to dribble

• When to pass vs. when to dribble (dribbling will pull in defenders, the dribbler should then look to play a longer ball to a teammate who will have more space/time to score then)

• Look for 1v1 situations (dribbler has to see what is in the space behind the defender).



v



Ball between three players – moving and passing

Progressions: Specify what surface must be used to pass the ball

Ankle locked Plant foot pointed at target Kick with inside of foot Wide surface=accuracy Follow through in direction of target Push pass=less than 25 yards

Play 5v3 in a 20-x-15 yard area Attackers earn points by reaching a

predetermined number of passes or by splitting the defenders

Defenders earn points by touching the ball or when the ball leaves the area

When a defender steals the ball he/she switches spots with the person that lost the ball


Good technique Good pace Accurate passes Run initiates the pass

Play 3v3 plus two neutrals in a 50-x-40 yard area

Teams score by passing to a player in the end zones

Progressions: Ball must enter endzone before the receiver does.Progress to scoring to a target player in the zone, and then to scoring by passing through cone goals

Good technique Good pace Accurate passes Run initiates the pass Passes should be played on angles so they

are not intercepted Use disguise when passing – do not

telegraph the pass SCRIMMAGE: Play an age appropriate scrimmage. Minimize coaching and let the players play and have fun!!

PRACTICE THEME: Passing #1


DIAGRAM ORGANIZATION KEY COACHING POINTS • Make a field that is the width of the 18 and

split into three 20 yard grids. Split the team into two groups and number the players on each team (1-8 on blue and 1-8 on orange for example). All the players are dribbling in the center grid. The coach calls out a color and odd numbered player go to shoot on one goal and even numbered players go to the other. Repeat.

• **Risk management: Use caution when having multiple players

• Ankle locked (toe down) • Strike ball with the laces • Land on kicking foot when shooting for

power • Strike the middle of the ball

• Same space as above but now players have a partner and pass and move. On the coaches signal the player with the ball tries to go score a goal and the partner without the ball tries to steal it. You may need to designate which pairs attack which goal when the signal is given. Repeat.

• Previous coaching points • Shoot quickly before the defender can catch

up • Glance at the GK before shooting to know

where to place the ball • If not enough shots are being taken, have

the defender do something before getting to defend.

• Play 5v5 + GK’s in a 30W x 40L yard field. Use cones to make a half line. Each team has 2 defenders in one half and 3 attackers in the other. After a goal, the ball starts with the GK who can distribute it to either half. If the defenders win it they play it across the line to the forwards who can then try to score. Progression: Have 3 defenders and 2 attackers per half. If the ball is dropped back and shot from a defender it counts double.

• Previous coaching points • Communication “set-it” and pointing to a

spot lets the player with the ball know where you want a softer pass to be played to allow for a one touch shot!

• Visit soccerplans.com and click on the ‘Video’ page to see videos demonstrating the correct technique for shooting the ball.




DIAGRAM ORGANIZATION KEY COACHING POINTS • Players pass and move. After passing the

player that passed the ball pressures the receiver (who dribbles at the “defender”) and then jockeys backwards a few steps. Progress to when the coach gives a signal the players with a ball try to keep it and the players without a ball try to win one. On coaches signal resume passing.

• Approach at an angle • Approach fast while ball is moving to

player, “break down” and start slowing down and taking shorter steps as the defender approaches the attacker, jockey backwards (body turned at an angle, almost half sideways)

• Play 1v1 to endlines on a 12 yard wide by 18 yard long field. The coach plays a ball in and the player that wins the ball tries to dribble across the line behind the defender. After playing players go back to their own line. Play for a certain number of points or time to see which team can win.

• Coaching points above • Force the attacker one way and then try to

win the ball when they make a mistake • Patience in defending, don’t dive in

• Play 1v1 to 2 goals on a 18 yard wide by 25 yard long field. The coach plays a ball in and the player with the ball can dribble through either goal. Progressions: Next player in the line stands in one of the goals to “close” it. The defender in the goal needs to communicate with the pressuring defender which way to force the attacker. Progress to 2v2 (still can have the next player in line block a goal). Progress to letting the attackers pass the ball through the goals.

• Progress to playing a 4v4 game to 2 goals (one on each endline) with GK’s

• Previous coaching points • Communication! The player in the “closed”

goal should be communicating with the pressuring defender to tell them which way to force the attacker (should be forcing them towards the closed goal).

• When playing 2v2, communication between the two defenders as well as communication between the defender in the “closed” goal and the 2 defenders

• Shape of pressuring and covering defender



Coach

Coach


DIAGRAM ORGANIZATION KEY COACHING POINTS • Players each have a ball and are dribbling in

a grid. Each player is “it” and tries to make their ball touch another player’s soccer ball. The player that initiates the contact earns a point.

• Introduce different turns that could be used to keep possession when under pressure.

• Vision – head up as much as possible • Keep the ball close so it can be shielded or

shot in a split second • Check your shoulder before turning so you

know what is behind you

• Knockaway (much better than knockout). Everyone is dribbling in a grid. Players try to keep their ball close and kick the other players soccer balls out of the grid. When a player’s ball is kicked out of the grid, if they can get to it before it stops rolling they come right back in. If the ball stops rolling, they do 5 ball taps or tick tocks and then come back in. Who gets their ball kicked out the least?

• Previous coaching points • Traditionally, when a player’s ball is kicked

out they are eliminated. The issue is that typically the players that need the most practice get their ball kicked out first. In this version, players get to repeatedly practice. Perhaps for the last round play the elimination version and when eliminated players go get water as the game finishes.

• Capture the goals! Play 3v3 or 4v4. Each team starts with 3 cone goals on their endline. When a team scores, they get to pick up the goal they scored in and go put in on their endline. At the end, the team with the most goals (literally) wins. As a team is winning, they have more goals to defend and less to attack which evens out the game.

• Previous coaching points • Keep the ball until a good opportunity to

score exists • Game awareness to realize where the

remaining goals are

• Play 3v3 or 4v4 (no GK’s) to one goal. Add the restriction that in order for a goal to account the entire attacking team must be across the half-line. This will force players to hold the ball a bit until their team cross the half line.

• Previous coaching points • Communication to let teammates know

when everyone is across the half • Recognition of the space behind the

pressuring defender (if cover is there then turn and keep the ball)




DIAGRAM ORGANIZATION KEY COACHING POINTS • Have half the team wear pinnies and get a

ball. Players move around in the area and practice different combinations such as takeovers, wall passes (1-2)’s, 1-3’s, overlaps, and double passes. Some of the combinations the same people will always end up getting the ball (wall pass) so the coach will have to switch which group has the soccer balls.

• Look to combine with other players • Technical execution of the different

combinations (check out the Combinations video on the soccerplans.com video page).

• 1-2 = playing the ball and receiving it right back (wall pass)….1-3 = playing the ball and then it is played to a 3rd person

• Increase of pace after a combination.

• Play 2v2-1 on a 12 yard wide by 20 yard long field. The defending team must drop one player back to play goalkeeper. When the defender wins the ball (or after a goal) the team that lost it (or scored) drops a player back to play GK.

• Recognition of the cues of the defender to decide whether to combine or fake a combination and keep the ball

• Recognition of the supporting attacker to decide which combination would be effective given the game situation.

• 2nd attacker should be even or slightly ahead of the pressuring defender

• Play 4v4+1 neutral player (all-time attacker) to endzones on a 35 yard long by 45 yard wide field (wider than longer). Players receive one point if they can dribble or pass into the endzone, and three points if they can combine and then play into the endzone.

• The field is wider than it is long, can the attacking team spread out the defensive team and then combine around players to score!

• Play 6v6+4 (+Gk’s). Each team plays with 6 field players and a GK. Two neutral players are positioned on the outside of EACH sideline. The neutral players can move up and down the line and help whichever team has the ball.

• Can players possess the ball to creat space to combine.

• Reading the cues of the pressuring defender (pressuring or jockeying backwards) to decide whether to combine or not and which combination to use.


PRACTICE THEME: Combination Play #4


DIAGRAM ORGANIZATION KEY COACHING POINTS • Players are dribbling and moving in a grid.

Introduce different moves that could be used to beat a defender. Players dribble towards a cone and then perform a move.

• Check out the ‘Video’ page of soccerplans.com for demonstrations of some different moves.

• Make a 18 yard long by 12 yard wide field and have 4-6 players on each field. Teams stand on opposite sides and each player needs a ball. The first pair plays 1v1. When a goal is scored or the ball goes over the endline, the defender is out and the next player in line from that side dribbles on. The player that was just attacking is now defending. Repeat!

• Dribble straight at the defender so you can beat them on the left or right

• Unbalance the defender with a fake (moves the ball) or feint (body fake) and then accelerate past them.

• Play 4v4 to endzones. Players use soccer balls to keep score. Each team starts with 3 soccer balls in their endzone. A seventh ball is used to play. When a team dribbles the ball into the other team’s endzone, they go get a new ball from the endzone they are defending and continue (make it, take it). The team with the most soccer balls in their endzone at the end of the game loses.

• Look at the space behind the pressuring defender…if a covering defender is behind them then the ball should be passed somewhere else. If the pressuring defender doesn’t have cover then the dribble should take them on and try to score.

• Previous coaching points • A scissors is a great move as it looks like a

pass (could be used to make a defender lunge to intercept the “pass” while the attacker dribbles by on the other side)




DIAGRAM ORGANIZATION KEY COACHING POINTS • Players pass and move. After passing the

player that passed the ball pressures the receiver (who dribbles at the “defender”) and then jockeys backwards a few steps. Progress to when the coach gives a signal the players with a ball try to keep it and the players without a ball try to win one. On coaches signal resume passing.

• Approach at an angle • Approach fast while ball is moving to

player, “break down” and start slowing down and taking shorter steps as the defender approaches the attacker, jockey backwards (body turned at an angle, almost half sideways)

• Play 1v1 to endlines on a 12 yard wide by 18 yard long field. The coach plays a ball in and the player that wins the ball tries to dribble across the line behind the defender. After playing players go back to their own line. Play for a certain number of points or time to see which team can win.

• Coaching points above • Force the attacker one way and then try to

win the ball when they make a mistake • Patience in defending, don’t dive in

• Play 1v1 to 2 goals on a 18 yard wide by 25 yard long field. The coach plays a ball in and the player with the ball can dribble through either goal. Progressions: Next player in the line stands in one of the goals to “close” it. The defender in the goal needs to communicate with the pressuring defender which way to force the attacker. Progress to 2v2 (still can have the next player in line block a goal). Progress to letting the attackers pass the ball through the goals.

• Progress to playing a 4v4 game to 2 goals (one on each endline) with GK’s

• Previous coaching points • Communication! The player in the “closed”

goal should be communicating with the pressuring defender to tell them which way to force the attacker (should be forcing them towards the closed goal).

• When playing 2v2, communication between the two defenders as well as communication between the defender in the “closed” goal and the 2 defenders

• Shape of pressuring and covering defender



Coach

Coach


DIAGRAM ORGANIZATION KEY COACHING POINTS • Players each have a ball and are dribbling in

a grid. Each player is “it” and tries to make their ball touch another player’s soccer ball. The player that initiates the contact earns a point.

• Introduce different turns that could be used to keep possession when under pressure.

• Vision – head up as much as possible • Keep the ball close so it can be shielded or

shot in a split second • Check your shoulder before turning so you

know what is behind you

• Knockaway (much better than knockout). Everyone is dribbling in a grid. Players try to keep their ball close and kick the other players soccer balls out of the grid. When a player’s ball is kicked out of the grid, if they can get to it before it stops rolling they come right back in. If the ball stops rolling, they do 5 ball taps or tick tocks and then come back in. Who gets their ball kicked out the least?

• Previous coaching points • Traditionally, when a player’s ball is kicked

out they are eliminated. The issue is that typically the players that need the most practice get their ball kicked out first. In this version, players get to repeatedly practice. Perhaps for the last round play the elimination version and when eliminated players go get water as the game finishes.

• Capture the goals! Play 3v3 or 4v4. Each team starts with 3 cone goals on their endline. When a team scores, they get to pick up the goal they scored in and go put in on their endline. At the end, the team with the most goals (literally) wins. As a team is winning, they have more goals to defend and less to attack which evens out the game.

• Previous coaching points • Keep the ball until a good opportunity to

score exists • Game awareness to realize where the

remaining goals are

• Play 3v3 or 4v4 (no GK’s) to one goal. Add the restriction that in order for a goal to account the entire attacking team must be across the half-line. This will force players to hold the ball a bit until their team cross the half line.

• Previous coaching points • Communication to let teammates know

when everyone is across the half • Recognition of the space behind the

pressuring defender (if cover is there then turn and keep the ball)





Ball between three players – moving and passing


Ankle locked Plant foot pointed at target Kick with inside of foot Wide surface=accuracy Follow through in direction of target Push pass=less than 25 yards

Have team partner up and face each other across a circle

Cones are placed inside the circle Players score points by knocking over the

cones When all the cones have been knocked

over the team that scored the most points wins


Good technique Proper accuracy Proper pace

Play 4v4 in a 40-x-30 yard area Teams attempt to knock over cones that

their opponent is defending When a team knocks over a cone, they

pick it up and put it in the line of cones they are defending

After 5 minutes, the team with the most cones wins

Progressions: Have different colored cones worth different point values.

Good technique Proper accuracy Proper pace

Scrimmage 4v4 No restrictions on players Teams score by shooting ball into goal

Observe to see if session has helped with passing ability


PRACTICE THEME: Passing #2

4v4


DIAGRAM ORGANIZATION KEY COACHING POINTS • Split the team into two groups, ½ on the

outside (most with a soccer bal) of a grid and the other ½ on the inside. Players check to an outside player with a ball, receive it, and then play it to an outside player without a ball. Play for 90 seconds and then switch inside/outside players.

• Progression: The last round is a race. Which player can receive and pass back 7 times first? The winner now has to do 8 while everyone else still does 7 (challenge)

• Check out the ‘Video’ page of www.soccerplans.com for a video demonstrating the different ways to receive

• Get in line with the flight of the ball • Always keep the ball moving with the 1st

touch • “Check your shoulder” (glance behind”

before checking to the ball and then again as the ball is in flight

• Communication from the passer, “man on” vs. “turn”

• Play 4v4 (might need to add a neutral player) on a 35x35 or 40x40 yard field. Make a small 5 yard square in each corner of the large grid. Teams score points by playing the ball to a teammate in a corner square and then passing it back out (or dribbling out).

• Same points as above. • Take the 1st touch away from pressure. • Vision!!! The receiving player needs to be

able to be looking around (before the pass) so they know where the defenders are and can make a good decision on where to take their 1st touch

• The receiving player could use various body feints (lunge one way and then receive the other) to deceive the defenders and get extra time.

• Play 4v4 + 4 neutrals on the outside (2 on

each side). The inside players can use the neutrals (limit touches if needed) to combine with. Play a 2-minute game and then have the losing team (or winning) switch places with the neutral team.

• Make runs early and/or time the runs well so the player receiving it is able to open up and face the field. Check away to create space and then check back when the player with the ball is ready to play it.





• Start with a juggling warm-up or a dynamic warm-up

• Players find a partner and practice “pinging” (shooting the ball on the ground or very close to the ground) back and forth.

• Visit soccerplans.com and click on ‘Video to see a video demonstrating the correct shooting technique.

• Ankle locked (toes down), land on kicking foot, body over ball, eyes on ball

• Keep the ball low! • Make a 30 yard long by 20 yard wide field.

The coach is outside the grid near the middle with a supply of balls. Have 3-5 players in the middle and GK’s by the goals. The coach serves a ball in and the players try to get the ball and shoot it into the goal. Once a player has gotten the ball the other players can steal it and try to shoot. Play until all the balls are gone…who can score the most goals?



where to place the shot • Plant foot next to the ball • Strike the middle of the ball – the less spin

the better (when shooting for power)

• Same field as above. Have a line by each corner with opposing teams across from each other. The coach plays a ball in and the first person from each line comes in to play 2v2. Continue until the ball goes out of bounds or a goal is scored and then a new ball is served in for the next group.



where to place the shot • Strike the middle of the ball – the less spin

the better (when shooting for power)

• Play “Cage Match”. The game is 3v3 or 4v4 in the middle. The remaining players from each team are spread out around the outside of the attacking half of the grid as neutral players. The inside players can play to the neutral players (their team) who have 1 touch to play back in (outside players also help keep the ball in play. Play for 2 minutes and then switch inside players.

• Coaching points listed above • Look to combine with neutral players to

help create scoring opportunities. • Intensity!!! • Take ½ chances – not always going to get a

clear shot, shoot even if you have a small window – maybe the ball will deflect off a defender and go in anyway.



Coach

Coach

coverContentsDisclaimerAge Characteristics101214U11 curriculumU11 Developmental Philosophy11-14 Player Development TipsCoaching MethodsU11 Curriculum OverviewDribbling and turning1Passing11 (Support)Dribbling to beat a defender4Goalkeeping intro1Defending6Receiving3Shooting5Receiving balls out of the air1Dribbling to beat a defender10Passing9 (vision)Cover Defending1Shooting1Receiving4Dribble to beat a defender9Passing1Shooting4Defending12Dribbling and turning4Combination play4Dribbling to beat a defender7Defending12Dribbling and

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