Author: John Thomas Coaches Connection Topic: CROSSING...

Author: John Thomas Coaches Connection Topic: CROSSING

Lesson Plan Age: U12

Activity Name Description Diagram Purpose/Coaching Points

1. WARM-UP Players organize themselves into pairs. Everyone in a half of the field, half of the players need a ball

Players jog around sporadically, players with a ball look to cross the ball to one of the players without a ball

Stretch then repeat Progressions: Specify which foot they must cross with

Hips turned to face target Head looking down at ball Angle of approach Preparation touch before

crossing Quality of cross – weight,

accuracy, timing

2. CROSSING TO TARGET Players organize themselves into groups of two. Two attackers. Two defenders. One ball.

Square passes ball to circle Circle plays ball with first touch towards

end line and then crosses the ball As soon as square passes the ball they

pressure the crosser One attacker and one defender by goal

Progressions: Switch to other side of field so crosser has to use other foot

1. Disguise your time of passing.

2. Supporting player also needs a good touch.

3. The closer you take the ball to the defender, the better.

4. Angle of support has to be correct.

3. 5v5 ZONAL PLAY

X. X. X. O O O

Author: John Thomas Coaches Connection Topic: CROSSING


Now the players organize themselves Play 5v5 (4 field players and a GK) in a 50-x-74 yard area with 15 yard wide flank zones on each side

One neutral player plays in each of the flank zones and cannot be challenged

A premium is placed on players timing runs into the box (as to get free from a marker) and receiving a cross from the flank player

Progressions: Allow flank players to come into the regular field

Hips turned to face target Head looking down at ball Angle of approach Preparation touch before

crossing Quality of cross – weight,

accuracy, timing Type of cross Driven to near post –

flicked header Lofted to fart post – driven

header or volley

4. SCRIMMAGE 8 VS. 8 The players organize themselves into two teams of eight, including a goalkeeper on each team.

Play an 8 vs. 8 match according to US Youth Soccer modified rules for U12.

Play on a regulation U12 field with goals in accordance with US Youth Soccer rules.

Driven to near post – Lofted to far post – driven ball to target

5. COOL-DOWN Juggle in pairs. 50 touches between partners and then stretch.

Finish with individual juggling. Try to beat your personal record. Stretch and replenish fluids.

X . X

Recap the key points of executing wall passes and double passes.

Kentucky Youth Soccer Association Coach Education Lesson Plan

www.kysoccer.net 859-269-1254 ext 14 or [email protected]

Topic: Recovery Session for U11-U14 FUNDAMENTAL – WARM UP ORGANIZATION KEY COACHING POINTS Variations: Any other types of tag games to get players moving and having fun.

Tail Tag • Players each grab a training vest and place it inside the back

of their shorts where it hangs out like a tail. • Play for 1 min and see how many tails you can collect by

grabbing them from another player. Player with most tails after 1 min is the winner. If you lose your tail you are still in the game.

Tail Tag w/ ball • Same as above but now each player must dribble a ball and

try to steal as many tails as possible in 1 min. Musical Balls • All players but one or two have a ball. On coaches

command, players leave their ball and try to secure someone else’s ball. The players without a ball have to go outside the grid and perform an activity- Star Jumps, Mule Kicks, etc.

Dynamic Stretching- See activities under coaching points

Tag Games and Musical Balls • Dynamic movement with and without the ball to lactic acid

buildup moving out of muscles • Awareness of space, opponents, time. • Problem solving • Technical skill under stress • Anticipation Dynamic Stretching (Stretching while moving) • Jogging, backward jogging, Side to side slides, High Knees,

Bum Kicks, Straight leg kickouts, Side leg kickouts, Up-Over-outs, up-over-ins, Knee to chest into lunge,

• Add a series of ¾ speed running patterns at the end and then stretch whatever else is needed

MATCH RELATED ACTIVITY Individual Pairs

Technical Skills Ladder- 2 or 3 teams compete vs each other • Individual- Players perform various dribbling activities up

one side of the ladder and down the other side. Dribbling Activities could include: Through cones, rt and lft ft only, sole of foot, pendulum touches, up 2 back one, change of direction moves at each cone, zig zag through cones, etc…

• Pairs- Players pair up and move up and down the ladder performing various technical activities. First team to have all of their players get through the ladder wins. Both players in a pair have to complete each skill to complete in the sequence. If the ball drops the pairs must start back at top of ladder.

• Pairs Skills could include: Volleys, ½ volleys, thigh volleys, chest volleys, head volleys, pairs heading, etc…

• Improving technical speed and comfort with the ball

• Proper dribbling technique with varied surfaces of the foot

• Proper volleying and receiving techniques • Teamwork • Communication Variations: Allow players to come up with different individual and pairs challenges during the competition

MATCH RELATED ACTIVITY

2V2 Team Heading Game • Area 15 yards x 12 yards • One team starts with the ball at their goal line and players

head the ball back and forth attempting to head the ball across the opposing teams endline

• Opposing team players play as goal keepers and may not move off the endline

• If the team in possession drops the ball, it turns over to the opposing team. If the opposing team stops the ball from going across the endline, they start with the ball where they saved it.

• Teams score by heading it across the opposing teams enline

• Communication • Proper Heading Technique • Keep knees bent and feet moving while heading back and

forth • Use arms for balance Variations: Allow players to keep bal l up in the air using different parts of their body while still scoring with their head.

COOL DOWN Light jogging and stretching

Author: Mark Gibbs National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Block Tackling


Activity Name Description Diagram Purpose/Coaching

Points 1 Knock Out O players try to tackle the X players

with the ball – O will count how many times they make a tackle. Repeat activity with players playing for 30 seconds each time. Keep score each time

▲ ▲ X X 6x6 grid O X ▲ ▲

Supporting foot next to the ball Lean forward from the shoulders

2 1v1 Battle Ladder 1 point for a tackle

1 point for a goal 3 points for a goal that happens after a tackle

O O O ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ X X X O O O ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ X X X

Lock the tackling foot’s ankle with toes pointed slightly forward Defending distance to the ball

3 1v1 Wars 2v2 3v3 4v4

Line soccer. When a player scores from a block tackle, s/he gets 3 points. A regular goal counts as 1 point. Progress this activity from 1v1 to 4 v4, and the same rules apply each time

▲ ▲ X O ▲ ▲

Tackle with full body weight Angle of body shape Throwing fakes at attacker Eyes on the ball

Author: Mark Gibbs National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Block Tackling


4 6v6 The “Time Zones”

Regular game if you tackle within the final third of the field. 4 points + 1 point for a goal

4 pts 3 pts 2 pts A M D D M A

Commit fully to the tackle

5 8v8 Final Game Without restrictions or conditions. Play

under U.S. Youth Soccer-modified rules for U12

2-3-2 X O X XO O X X O O X XO O X O

Coach the topic during the game

6 Cool Down Juggling in pairs

Author: Jimmy Conway National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Combination Play



Points 1. WARM-UP Players organize themselves into pairs. One to each pair. 10 yard X 15 yard grid.

In their grid each pair passes the ball back and forth on the move. Play combinations together…wall

passes at various angles…double passes. Next play two touch. Finish with one touch.

In between each progression stretch. Each round should last one to two minutes.

15 yds.

10 yds.

1. Keeping the ball on the ground is a must.

2. Having a good touch when running with the ball is important.

2. WALL PASS 2 VS. 1 Players organize themselves into groups of three in each grid. One ball per grid.

Play 2v1 with the two attackers trying to get the ball over the opposite end line under control. The defender tries to gain possession of the ball. The players switch roles after two rounds until all have been the defender. 1st attacker takes the ball to the defender and passes to supportive player who should be in an advance position of the defender. The support player tries to play back to the 1st attacker beyond the defender.

15 yds.

10 yds.

1. Disguise your time of passing.

2. Supporting player also needs a good touch.

3. The closer you take the ball to the defender, the better.

4. Angle of support has to be correct.

X. X O

X. X

Author: Jimmy Conway National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Combination Play


3. WALL PASS 2 VS. 2 Now the players organize four players to each grid. One ball per grid. Increase the size of the grid to 20 yards long X 15 yards wide.

As in activity number two, but now play 2 vs. 2.

20 yds.

15 yds.

1. 2v2 is a little more challenging but the angles, the touch, and the correct support stay the same.

2. The support player needs to stay strong when receiving the ball.

4. SCRIMMAGE 8 VS. 8 The players organize themselves into two teams of eight, including a goalkeeper on each team.

Play an 8 vs. 8 match according to US Youth Soccer modified rules for U12.

Play on a regulation U12 field with goals in accordance with US Youth Soccer rules.

1. Watch for the players’ recognition of combination passing opportunities.

2. Observe the players’ technical abilities in these combination situations.

5. COOL-DOWN Juggle in pairs. 50 touches between partners and then

stretch. Finish with individual juggling. Try to beat your personal record. Stretch and replenish fluids.

X . X

Recap the key points of executing wall passes and double passes.

X X

.O O

Author: Karl Dewazian National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Defending



Points 1 Begin the Practice: • Explanation that the

main objective of this practice is to have 1st and 2nd defenders work together.

• Explanation and demonstration of the 1st defender’s role: PRESSURE

(Areas that could be covered)

• ‘Read the game’ by looking around and seeing positions of teammates and opponents.

• ‘Ready Position’. Use a

more definitive body position (Sideways-on)

• ‘Run to Defend’ by first blocking your goal. • ‘Run to Defend’ by then getting to within

two yards of the ball. • ‘Run to Defend’ by angling the approach

using a curved run. • ‘Ready Position’. Glide into the Ready or

Defensive Stance. o -The Head –eyes on the ball o -Upper body- half turned and

slightly inclined forward o -Arms –away from sides for

better balance o -Legs – one in front of the other

and knees bent o -Back leg support body weight

• Front leg ‘pokes’ at the ball

o Sideways-on Stance is visual cue to your intent of where to force 1st Attacker.

o Sideways-on Stance helps in making your intentions predictable to teammates.

o Sideways-on Stance allows the application of the ‘shepherding’ technique.

• ‘Reject Advancement’ by forces 1st Attacker where you want him/her to go.

• ‘Reject Advancement’ by poking at the ball and not allowing 1st Attacker to ‘Read the Game.’

• ‘Regain Possession’ of the ball when reasonably sure of success, otherwise delay.

2 Warm-up • Have players go

through Figure 8 Stretch Routine in the “Ready Stance”

• At appropriate moments ask the players to stretch/loosen:

o Ankles, Calves, Groin, Quads, Hams, Back, Stomach, Upper body and Neck.



3 One + One (Cooperative) ‘Server’ goes through ‘the SERVE’ pattern and become Cooperative 1st Attacker.

• As Cooperative 1st Attacker apply the appropriate Stage of Play:

• Beginning Stage – Allow 1st Defender to work on techniques by walking with the ball.

• Intermediate Stage – Allow 1st Defender to work on techniques by jogging with the ball.

• Advanced Stage – Challenge 1st Defender to work together by sprinting through the action.

• 1st Attacker Cooperate and Guarantee 1st Defender success in individual Defending techniques.

• Coach – Remember (PLUS) stands for…Players Learn Using Stoppages.

4 One vs. One (Competitive) Players experiment with their newly acquired techniques in Defending

• Coach observes and takes notes on weaknesses to be improved at future practices.

• Coach – Remember (vs.) stands for you being …Verbally Silent.



5 Half-time • Gather the team

in a defined, secluded, shaded area.

• Encourage and have players replenish liquids.

• Check for

injuries

• Have players relax and communicate with each other about the theme.

• Review 1st

Defenders role – if necessary.

Explanation and Demonstration of 2nd Defenders role: COVER • Go through ‘the SERVE’ pattern with

SERVER and intend to become 2nd Defender.

• As 2nd Defender: • Make proper recovery run. Remember,

curved runs are best! • Take (ideal) covering position at 2-4 yd.

behind 1st Defender. • At a distance where becoming 1st Defender

is immediately possible. • Begin verbal communication to inform 1st

Defender of your covering position. • Give 1st Defender ‘specific’ verbal

instructions - for example: • "Tighten" -get closer to 1st Attacker • "Force out" -make 1st Attacker go

toward touchline • "Force in" -make 1st Attacker go away

from touchline • "Poke" -fake attempts at the ball • "Tackle" -make attempts at the ball Give encouragement or other advice such as ‘get closer’; ‘watch the ball’. Etc.

Notes:Your goal is to limit verbiage… For example: "RIGHT,” tells it all. No need to say "force-right". Hearing 2nd Defenders voice means… There is "cover" and ball position dictates the 1st Defenders next move.

Small Sided Game(s) (2 + 1 Cooperative Game)

• ‘Server’ goes through ‘the SERVE’ pattern and become Cooperative 1st Attacker.

• As Cooperative 1st Attacker apply the appropriate Stage of Play:

• Beginning Stage – Allow 1st and 2nd Defenders to work on Defending by walking with the ball.

• Intermediate Stage – Allow 1st and 2nd Defenders to work on Defending by jogging with the ball.

• Advanced Stage – Challenge 1st and 2nd Defenders to work together by sprinting through the action.

• 1st Attacker Cooperate and Guarantee 1st and 2nd Defenders success in Working Together!

• Coach – Remember (PLUS) stands for…Players Learn Using Stoppages.

Small Sided Game(s) (2 vs. 1 Competitive Game)

1st and 2nd Defenders experiment with their newly acquired techniques in Defending


• Coach – Remember that (vs.) stand for you being Verbally Silent)





Scrimmage (Cooperative Scrimmage)

Opposing team becomes Cooperative in Attack

• As Cooperative Attackers apply the appropriate Stage of Play:

• Beginning Stage – Allow Defenders to work on 1st and 2nd Defender Working Together by walking with the ball.

• Intermediate Stage – Allow Defenders to work on 1st and 2nd Defender Working Together by jogging with the ball.

• Advanced Stage – Challenge Defenders to work together as 1st and 2nd Defenders by sprinting through the action.

• Attackers Cooperate and Guarantee Defending Team success in Working Together!

• Coach – Remember (PLUS) stand for…Players Learn Using Stoppages.

Scrimmage (Competitive Scrimmage)

Defenders experiment with their newly acquired techniques in Defending in pairs.


• Coach –remember that (vs.) stand for you being…Verbally Silent.



Cool-down To prevent soreness and injuries stretching Ankles, Calves, Groin, Quads, Hams, Back, Stomach, Upper body and Neck should take place after every game and practice. If you are going to stretch only once, afterwards, is the most important time.

End of Practice • -Summarize practice session and theme of 1st and 2 Defenders roles.

• -Briefly analyze/compliment the strong/weak points of their performance.

• -End with a positive statement, which lets them, know they improved.

• -Give them homework assignment related to 1st and 2nd Defenders roles.

Author: Greg Maas National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Defending


Organization Variations Diagram Coaching Points

Unrestricted In pairs, one ball between two. “Shadow” exercises working on proper defending position and body shape. Alternate the attacker and defender throughout. Stretch.

1 v 1 defending with players going

directly at each other (fundamentals). 1 v 1 defending with players facing

each other and the ball being played away at an angle (angle of approach).

1 v 1 defending facing one another with the defender playing the ball through the attacker’s legs (close space).

X. O

Pressure responsibilities Proper body position and

shape Speed and angle of

approach Quick reactions and

closing space accordingly Patience – don’t over

commit



Restricted 1 v 1, 1 v 2 and 2 v 2 defending exercises in channels (10 x 20 area or as needed).

1 v 1 line soccer with players feeding

the ball. Play is continuous until someone scores or the ball goes out of bounds. Repeat.

1 v 2 defending in [wider] channel (15 x 20) with small goals at each end or corners. Play is continuous until someone scores or the ball goes out of bounds. Repeat.

2 v 2 (same as second variation).

20 yds.

10 yds. 20 yds. 15 yds.

Pressure and cover

responsibilities Close down space

quickly and under control Select a proper angle of

approach and cover Decision when to get

tight or to simply “shadow” the attacker Communication between

defenders

X. O

X. O O



Counter Goals and/or Lines 3 v 3 + 1 directional game (30 x 40 area or as needed). Neutral player plays for team in possession.

Line soccer or add 2-3 small goals on

touchline or corners to score. Option to play this exercise rotating the

length or width to change the demand on the defending group.

40 yds. 30 yds.

Pressure, cover and

balance responsibilities Visual and verbal

communication between players Proper defensive shape

and balance with movement of the ball Visual cues from the

attacking team Zonal defending

Two Goals 7 v 7 with goalkeepers to two large goals (50 x 70 or as needed).

Possible Formation 2:3:2. No restrictions.

70 yds.

50 yds.

Immediate pressure to

the ball at all times Defending shape and

balance with movement of the ball Compactness of the field

(limit attacking space and options) Zonal defending Counter attack

X X

X . N O O

O

8 v 8 The GAME



Cool Down Players jog (dynamic movements). Stretch.

Focus on major muscle groups.

Reduce Heart Rate Static Stretching Review Session

Author: Mike Cullina National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Dribbling



Points 1. Red light, Green light 1. Stop & go per

command. 2. Teach a penetration

move. 3. Add yellow light

1. On green light – go. Encourage free movement throughout grid. On red light – stop as quickly as possible.

2. Show move(s) (e.g. step-over, faint)

3. On yellow light, have player perform move (change direction) and explode into open space (change speed).

• Use different surfaces of foot

• Maintain vision of field

• Body in athletic position (low center of gravity, etc.)

• Change of direction

• Change of speed

2. 1v1 Ladder, Competition 1v1 to line * Field – 15 x 12 yd. (length) x (width)

• 45-60 second games • Stop on line to score • Winner moves up, loser stays

(loser on top field goes all the way to bottom

• If tied, Rock, paper, scissors.

• Set up opponent

• Make move • Finish move

(cut off defender’s recovery)



3. 2v2 Cooperative, Competitive 2v2 to line * Field – 15 x 24 yd.

• Play is initiated with pass from one team to other.

• To score, dribble through end line.

• Players switch teammates.

• Face defenders • Dribble at

defenders • See space behind

defenders (no cover)

4. 4v4-1 4v4-1 through gates (4v3) * Field – 35 x 25 yd.

• Each team defends two 6-yard gates placed on the end line, five yards from touchline.

• To score, dribble through gate.

• One player on team without ball takes a knee so the team defends with three. When team wins possession, said player becomes live and a player from opposing team takes a knee.

• Spatial awareness • Dribble at

defenders • Teammates stay

out of the way when 1v1 isolated.



5. The GAME 8v8 to big goals (7v7 + GK) * Field – 75 x 50 yd.

Organize each team in a 2-3-2 formation to ensure 1v1 throughout the field.

• Play hard • Have FUN!

Author: Chris Kranjc National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Dribbling



Points 1 1 player/1 ball dribbling in area

Players are dribbling in 30 x 30 yd area. On coach’s command, players change speed, change direction. May incorporate feints into this stage. 30 x 30 yd field

Change of speed

Head up

Change of

direction Ball under

control

2 1 v 1 to lines

Players play 1 v 1 to line. Score by dribbling over line. Winners play after 30 seconds. Count number of wins. 10 x 15 yd field

Above points

Author: Chris Kranjc National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Dribbling


3 4 v 4 to lines

Players play the game and score by dribbling ball, under control, over opponents’ line. Can put in condition that no back or square passes are allowed. 30 x 40 yd field

Same as above

4 8 v 8 – The Game Play the game.

50 x 70 yd field

Same as above

5 Cool-Down Have the players try to set their

personal record in juggling. Conduct two static stretches between rounds of juggling.

Author: Sam Snow National Youth License Topic: Finishing



Points 1 Game with Many Goals Two teams of five. Use a 50 x 40 grid with six goals made with either cones or corner flags. Both teams attempt to kick the ball with inside of foot through one of the goals and score, or, if the other team is in possession, to avoid conceding goals.

A goal is scored when the ball crosses the goal line between the flag posts and reaches a member of the same team. A shot passing above the posts does not count. Goals may be scored from either side of the goals. The game carries on without pause after a score. Consecutive scores through the same goal are not allowed.

• Placement of the plant foot

• Knees bent • Kicking foot level

with the ground • Lock ankle & strike

w/the arch of the foot

2 No Bodily Contact 4 v 4 in a 40 x 25 grid with two hockey size goals. No proper goalkeepers.

One player passing the ball to another starts the game. Each team attacks the opponent’s half, trying to score goals. The defending team may not defend in the normal manner. Only the path of the attacker or ball may be blocked.

• Encourage a variety of shooting techniques since there is little pressure from the opponent

• Eyes on the ball w/mental focus

Author: Sam Snow National Youth License Topic: Finishing


3 Game with three ‘Neutrals’ Two teams of four plus three ‘neutral’ players in a 40 x 25 grid with two hockey size goals. No proper goalkeepers.

Each team attempts to attack its opponents’ half to score goals. The neutral players are always on the side of the attackers to give them numerical superiority. The opposition is awarded the ball after a successful interception.

• Work on shots from combination play – lay-offs, wall passes, dummies, etc.

4 Shooting with Two Goals Two teams of 4 to 5 players in a double penalty area space with two normal goals and a centerline marked. Each team must shoot goals from inside its own half. The players in possession try to work themselves into a good shooting position while the opposition tries to block shots.

The goalkeeper begins the game by throwing the ball out to a player in his team. If he is a good position he may shoot immediately. If not, the ball may be passed directly to a teammate. Three passes are the limit. No player may cross the centerline. Balls out of play are kicked in.

• Shooting while shielding

• Spinning off a mark & shooting

5 Passing Back to Shoot Two teams of four and one neutral goalkeeper on half the pitch with one normal goal. One team attacks trying to score goals, or, having lost the ball, to avoid conceding goals.

The keeper starts the game with an impartially taken goal kick. A goal may be scored only after a pass back out of the penalty area. All players may use the penalty area. Shots from inside the penalty area are penalized by an indirect free kick. No offside, but corners and throw-ins are taken. If the keeper gathers the ball, or if it goes over the goal line, the game is restarted with a goal kick. If a goal is scored, a goal kick is also taken.

• How to draw the keeper & a defender to open up back post for a teammate

• Support runs to finish

Author: Tom Fleck Coaches Connection Topic: Heading Lesson Plan Age: U12

Activity Name Description Diagram Coaching Points 1 Warm-up Players move about in an

unrestricted area tossing

their ball in the air and

heading it to themselves.

Continue by accelerating

the speed of movement and

the number of times the ball

must be headed.

Stretch once the players are

moving with an increased

heart rate.

Look for eyes open

and mouths closed.

See which players

display confidence

while moving.

Let one or two

players direct the

stretching.

2 Technical Emphasis - Heading As in the above

activities, each player

tosses the ball in the air,

heads it twice, and then

heads it to another

player.

Progression – in groups of

three or four, players try to

keep the headed ball alive.

Condition – that no player

can head the ball more than

once before each of the

other players head it.

At first the balls

will be all over the

place, but they’ll

solve it. As soon as

two players do it

correctly, stop the

session and praise

them.

Create a

competition

between groups of

players. Encourage

groups to move as

they head the ball.

Author: Tom Fleck Coaches Connection Topic: Heading Lesson Plan Age: U12

3 Small Sided Activity Using small-sided teams

(3 v 3 or 4 v 4), play to a

goal by hand passing to

the head.

Points are awarded for

heading balls properly

while progressing toward

the goal. A grand slam is a

goal scored from a headed

ball.

Since this is a game

situation, tactics

will be employed.

Though emphasis is

on heading, watch

the choices made

by the players.

4 Group Activity (Tactics – Decisions) Play a 4 vs. 4 +

goalkeepers match.

Divide the players into two

teams and play on half a

field with emphasis on

completing a headed pass

or scoring a goal with a

head ball.

Watch for players

who move to

receive a headed

pass. Successful

passing indicates

good decisions.

Stop the play to

praise players for

sound tactical

choices.

5 Cool-down Spinal Extension – lie face down

with arms by the sides. Tuck

chin, pinch shoulder blades back

& raise chest off the ground.

Body Curl – lie on back, bend knees into

chest & put hands behind head. Exhale &

curl upper body & pelvis toward each other

& crunch into a ball.

Hip Adduction – lie on side with top leg bent

& resting on the ground perpendicular to body.

Lift bottom leg straight up, keeping the bottom

foot parallel to the ground.

Neck – slow rotation of

the head in all

directions.

Author: Tom Turner National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Passing



Points 1. POSSESSION GAMES As players arrive, they form groups of between four (3v1) and seven (5v2) to play keep-a-way games.

One and two-touch would be the norm. Players accumulate points, as they become the defender(s). The player with the highest number of points loses the game.

5 5

5 2

2 .5 5

Planning a practice is as much art as science! In teaching, there is nothing sacred about the sequence of activities, or the duration of activities, or the form of activities. Sometimes it is fun to just play; sometimes, it is fun to just have skills contests. Often, a balance between play and skill practice is the best way to develop technical expertise and tactical insight.

2. POSSESSION-COMPETITION Arrange for half as many balls as players, i.e., fourteen players and seven balls. For 14 players, the space would be

Players in possession look to play double passes with those without a ball. The first pass should be at least 10-15 yards in length to maintain open space between passer and receiver, and the passer should change pace and follow directly after the ball. When the

hange roles, they simply coach periodically whistles eriod of competitive 1v1 (or ng touches and passing y can be addressed during t is also important to explain e passing in relation to

P P. P. P

P P.

P P.

P P P.

approximately 45x35 yards.

receivers want to ckeep the ball. Theto signal a short p1v2) play. Receivisurface and qualitthe short breaks. Ithe value of doublpassing lanes.

P. P P.

Author: Tom Turner National Youth Certificate Course Topic

Lesson Plan A

3. BUMPER 2 Groups of 6 or 8 players in a 20 to 25-yard square area. For groups of six, four players form “bumpers” on the outside of the box (one in the middle of each side) and two players start in the middle. For groups of eight, there are two groups of 1v1 inside the square. Each pair inside the area has one ball and will play a separate 1v1 game. On the outside, two of the four players also have soccer balls. The players inside the square compete against their immediate opponent (1v1) for 60 seconds. To score, the ball must be passed to a “bumper” who doesn’t have a ball.

When a goal is scored, the attacker runs to receive new ball from another “bumper.” The defender cannot score points until they gain possession. Possession changes hands when the ball is passed to a “bumper” who already has a ball; when the ball is kicked or dribbled out of bounds; or when the defender wins possession from the attacker. At the end of the 60 seconds, the score is noted and carried over to the next round. The player who started as the defender in round #1 should begin round #2 as the attacker. The players should be in colored scrimmage vests (blue or green) so that individual and team scores can be maintained. “Bumpers” are always neutral. Play the game as organized above, but with 2v2 and one ball. To score, the two attacking players must be connected with a pass from a “bumper, ” in a 3-player sequence. Play each game to five (5) and rotate the “bumpers” into the game. Initially, the pass from the “bumper” can be “free” touch; eventually, it should be in one or two touches. The attackers can maintain possession by passing to each other or by exchanging passes with to the “bumpers,” but can only score a goal when three players are involved in the sequence.

X O O X X O

X O

25 Yds. X 20 Yds.

With moplayers,challenggame wtouches;restrictioshould b“bumpeof circulpoint of This gam3v3+6 ((~30x30

O. X

X. O

: Passing

ge: U12

re accomplished the “bumpers” can be ed to play back into the

ith only one or two- when this touch n is exceeded, the ball e played to another

r” to maintain a high rate ation and change the attack.

e can also be played as ~25x25 yards) or 4v4+6 yards).



4. THE MATCH Play 5v5 to two goals with goalkeepers. Area is 30 yards long x 40 yards wide to encourage wide play and finishing.

5. COOL-DOWN Cool Down and Stretch

The practice should conclude with some light jogging, sit-ups and push-ups, and a period of stretching.

K X X X X X

O O O O O K




Points 1. FREE PLAY SCRIMMAGE As players arrive, divide them into teams (blue or green) and let them scrimmage. The game can begin with four players and should not have goalkeepers.

When more than ten players are present, a second goal can be added to each side for each team to attack and defend (four goal game), or a second small-sided game can be created.

Planning a practice is as much art as science! In teaching, there is nothing sacred about the sequence of activities, or the duration of activities, or the form of activities. Sometimes it is fun to just play; sometimes, it is fun to just have skills contests. Often, a balance between play and skill practice is the best way to develop technical expertise and tactical insight.

2. GREEN & BLUE Pair up opponents (blues and greens) from the warm-up game, with one ball for each pair. The game is blue versus green and the opponents are 8-10 yards apart.

In pairs, the ball is passed back and forth for 60 seconds with a “mandatory” 2-touch rule. The ball must not come to rest. Points are won when the opponent makes a mistake, such as a bad pass, or other than 2-touches, or stopping the ball. In round #2, the first touch must be mad#3, tplayeachgreeprac

B.

G

Coaching points might address balance and body preparation, power generation and cushioning skills.

G B

B. G B G B G

e with the outside of the foot; and in game he game can be played 1-touch, with ers 5-6 yards apart. Change partners for game and record the winner (blue versus n). It is a good idea to let the players tice each skill before each new round.

Author: Tom Turner National Youth Certificate Course Topic

Lesson Plan A

3. END-LINE The Logistics: 3v3 (or 4v4) to targets. Area is 30x20 (3v3) or 40x25 (4v4).

The Game: Pass to the opponent’s end line player to score. The end line players (targets) are outside of the playing space and can also support their own team as they play out of the back or are under pressure in the defensive third. Play to five and rotate the targets.

40 yds. 25 yds.

4. TOUCHES The Logistics: Play 6v6+2 to two goals with goalkeepers. Area is approximately 55x45, with offside lines 15 yards out from each goal.

The Game: Play with limited (3) touches (6v6+2) and then unlimited touches (7v7). Games can be for a time (15 minutes) or a winning score (first to 5).

~55 yds. ~ 45 yds.

5. COOL-DOWN Cool Do

The pracwith somand pushstretchin

X X X O

. O X O

K X X X N X X X N O

O O O O K O

: Passing

ge: U12

wn and Stretch tice should conclude e light jogging, sit-ups -ups, and a period of g.

Author: Gary Williamson National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Penetration



Points 1. SHORT-SHORT-LONG The players should organize themselves into groups of four.

• Play two or four short passes followed by a long pass to the player in the group the greatest distance away from the ball.

• Progress to pass and move. • Progress to two touch passing. • Finish with one touch passing.

X. X X x

1. Open body. 2. Positive first touch. 3. Look forward. 4. Pass quickly. 5. Run to support.

2. 2 VS. 1 TO TARGETS The training grid should be 15 yards wide by 25 yards long. Four players per grid in teams of two.

X1 and X2 attack against one of the O players. The O players take turns as the single defender. The X players try to get past the O defender to the opposite end of the grid. The two teams switch roles after two rounds. The attacking team combines with passing and solo dribbling to beat the defender.

• Progress to scoring a point if they can get the ball to the target player under control. The O defender earns a point if possession of the ball is gained.

25yds 15 yds

15yds

1. X2 makes run to create space.

2. Proper angle of checking run.

3. Take a peek forward. 4. Touch and turn. 5. Look to pass forward. 6. Communication (visual

& verbal) 7. Proper angle and distance

between the two attacking players.

Reemphasize all previous coaching points.

.X1

X2 O O

Author: Gary Williamson National Youth Certificate Course Topic

Lesson Plan A

3. 2 VS. 2 TO TARGETS The training grid should be 15 yards wide by 20 yards long. The players need to organize themselves into eight players per grid. Four players go inside the grid to play 2v2 and one player on each corner of the grid as a target player.

The attacking players should work on playing the ball forward. PROGRESSION

• Look to use the second attacker as a decoy run for the first attacker. Play passes to the target players.

• If the pass to the target is successful then that team gets the ball back and attacks to the opposite end of the grid. Make it – Take it.

• Competition – keep score.

T1 T2 20yds T3 15 yds T4

1. P2. D

o3. S4. R

c

4. 2 VS. 2 + GKs The training grid should be 15 yards wide by 25 yards long. The goals should be 3 yards wide.

The players should organize themselves into groups of six to play two against two with a goalkeeper in each goal. The players should switch roles after 3 minutes. Set up as many grids as needed in order to have all of the players active.

25 yds. X 15 yds.

1. Oawd

2. Oas

3. Opdv

X [ gk X o gk ] o

x X. O O

: Penetration

ge: U12

ositive attitude. ecision of when to pass r dribble. election of type of pass. eemphasize all previous oaching points.

bserve the first ttacker’s selections as to hen to shoot, pass or ribble. bserve the movement

nd positioning of the econd attacker. bserve the mental and hysical transition from efense to offense and ice-versa.



5. COOL-DOWN All players and coaches assemble inside the center circle. To create a greater challenge use smaller sections of the circle.

While moving at half speed everyone moves forwards, backwards, sideways, twisting and turning all while avoiding contact with anyone else. Move for one minute and then stop to stretch. After two minutes of stretching resume, but at quarter speed. Stop to stretch after one minute.

1. Agility. 2. Vision. 3. Lower heart rate. 4. Lower breathing rate. 5. Reduce volume of

sweating. 6. FUN

Author: James Clarkson National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Penetration



Points 1. Warm Up KEEP AWAY

Two teams, one ball keep away. Score with combinations, 1-2’s, take overs, over laps, etc.

40 yds.

30 yds.

Work on ideas for penetration. CP: Timing, movement, disguise, communication, weight and shape of pass.

2 TARGET GAME

4v4 possession – Score by hitting the targets & receiving it back. Keep possession. All players must be in one half, can’t cross half until ball does, either with a dribble or a pass. If defending team wins it they score in that half before crossing over.

30 yds. T T 40 yds. T T

As above with real focus on imagination and creativity. Don’t force it.

3 END ZONE GAME

Directional game. Each team tries to score in other team end zone. Score by getting ball in end zone under control, pass or dribble.

50 yds. 40 yds.

As Above

8 vs. 8

4 vs. 4

8 vs. 8



4 ONE GOAL WITH COUNTERS.

Defending team defends the offside line & score on the counters. Attackers try to penetrate & score.

Offside

As above

5 FULL GAME 8v8

Play according to the US Youth Soccer U12 modified rules.

No restrictions.




Points 1. SHORT-SHORT-LONG The players organize themselves into groups of four.

The two short passes should be on the ground over a 10-yard distance and the third pass is long. PROGRESSION:

• Play two touch. • End players switch with the

middle players in the group. • Move onto one touch passing. • The long pass is now aerial over

30 yards. • The competition is the group that

can make the most number of successful passes.

X. x o o.

1. Quality 1st touch. 2. Look forward. 3. Accuracy of pass. 4. Pace of pass forward. 5. Rhythm, speed.



2. 1 VS. 1 TO GOALS OR TARGETS Four players go into each 20 yards long by 10 yards wide grid.

Play 1vs1 in the center of the grid and try to complete a penetrating shot, pass or dribble to the target player or small goals at the end of the grid. Switch roles every two turns.

T 20 yds. T 10 yards

1. Create space. 2. Angle the checking

run back 3. Take a peek forward

during checking run. 4. Touch and turn. 5. Look forward. 6. Shoot, pass or dribble

forward.

3. 2 VS. 2 TO GOALS Six players go into each 20 Yards long by 15 yards wide grid. Two players are designated goalkeepers.

The coach acts as the ‘Boss of the Balls’ and is the only one allowed to put a ball into play. Have assistant coaches or parents manage the other grids. A U12 regulation goal should be at each end of the grid.

1. Reinforce allprevious coaching points.

2. Positive attitude. 3. Shoot, pass or

dribble. 4. ‘Can I score?’ 5. Pass to teammate?

. X

O

GK x

X. O O

GK

Author: Gary Williamson National Youth Certificate Course To

Lesson Plan A

4. SCRIMMAGE 4 VS. 4 Ten players go into each 40 yards long by 20 yards wide grid. Two players are designated goalkeepers.

• The coach acts as the ‘Boss of the Balls.’

• Add two counter attack goals at one end of the grid.

• Then go to two goals.

1. 2. C3. O4. 15. V6. S

p

5. COOL-DOWN Partnernastics Draw, fundominals, head or catch, etc. 1. B

2. A3. S4. E5. m6. F

GK X O

X O .

O X O X GK

pic: Penetration

ge: U12

Team shape. reate space. pen body.

st touch. ision. elections: Shoot, ass or dribble?

alance. gility. trength ye/foot coordination ental focus UN




Points 1. Warm Up 4 GOAL GAME

Two teams try to score in any of the four goals. Dribble or pass the ball through the goals to score.

50 yds. 40 yds.

Work on ideas for penetration. CP: Timing, movement, disguise, communication, weight and shape of pass. Combinations

2 TEAM IN THE MIDDLE.

Three teams, one team in each zone. The two end teams keep the ball away from the middle team. The ball must travel from one end to the other. Players must stay in their zones. If the ball goes out of bounds or is intercepted, the team losing possession switches with the middle team. Progression: 1 player from middle can attend zone.

18 14 18 40 yds.

As above with real focus on imagination and creativity. Don’t force it.

^ ^ ^ ^^ ^ ^ ^

ack



3 3 TEAM GAME

Three teams & two goalkeepers. Middle team attacks one end and tries to score. Play in zone until defenders win the ball and get it into the middle. They then attack opposite end and try to score. Goalkeepers play for defending team and start attacks.

60 yds. 25 yds. 25 yds. 40 yds.

As Above

4 ONE GOAL WITH COUNTERS.

Two teams split into defenders, midfielders & attackers. Players can only play in their zones. Ball always starts with the goalkeepers. Must get the ball through the zones and try to score. Progression: 1 player can move from their zone when the ball does, create numbers up.

60 yds. 20 20 20 40 yds.

As above

5 FULL GAME 8v8

Play according to the US Youth Soccer U12 modified rules.

No restrictions

K K

2 2 3 v v v 3 2 2

Author: Van Taylor National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Possession



Points 1 Warm Up (Fundamental) Players pass and receive in pairs using both short passing (inside of foot) and long passing (instep).

In-between exercise stretch.

2 6 V 3 Keep Away Game Three groups of three players each.

Two groups supply crosses to the other one – if the defending group in the middle gets a touch of the ball, they are replaced by the group of the player who gave the ball away – the two groups who combine on the outside have unlimited touches on the ball. One man from the groups in possession can move into the middle – when in this role a player has two touches.

20 yds. 30 yds.

Improving keeping possession. Body mechanics, body shape and balance, vision.

6 V 3



3 The Possession Game 8 V 8 – Each team has four outfield players and four wall players, one on each side of the box – the latter cannot enter the field.

Ten consecutive passes equals one goal – the wall players have only one touch – a wall player cannot play the ball back to the player who last passed the ball to him – the ball cannot be passed directly from one wall player to another – wall players cannot tackle the opposition.

X O X X

O O X O

Vision and tactical application, weight of pass, short passing (inside of foot), long passing (instep), driven, chip lofted.

4 5 V 5 Pressing Two teams of five plus goalkeepers.

Normal game until a team scores – when a team scores they cannot score again until they lose a goal – the winning team tries to play possession football – the losing team, using the goalkeeper as an outfield player tries to gain possession and score – when an equalizer is scored, the game returns to normalcorners – kick ins. Winning: A teaa) Being one goal ahead at full timb) Being one goal ahead for a five-period.

Receiving ground and air balls. Passing and receiving for possession.

X X O X

O

X X O O

O O

X O

O X

O X X O

– no m wins by: e, or minute

X O



5 7 V 7 and 2GK Final Match Play according to US Youth Soccer

rules for U12 8-a-side.

Body mechanics, body shape and balance, vision. Vision and tactical application, weight of pass, short passing (inside of foot), long passing (instep), driven, chip lofted. Receiving ground and air balls.

Cool Down / Stretch / Rehydrate

Author: Tom Fleck Coaches Connection Topic: Receiving & Passing Lesson Plan Age: U12

Activity Name Description Diagram Coaching Points 1 Warm-Up Use any space on the

field you want or make a

grid.

Two players with one ball. The

player with the ball knocks it into

the air. The other player receives it

and passes it immediately back to

the first player who dribbles to the

nearest line. Make this a

competition if you wish.

Variation: Take the above activity

to a situation for groups of threes or

fours using various conditions to

challenge the players.

Be sure to stretch at varying

intervals during the warm-up.

Players should now become more

responsible for their own stretching.

Players should

select a player to

receive their pass

when the ball

Observe the

execution of

receiving and

dribbling.

2 Receive & Pass Mark off a 20 x 20

yard grid. Have spare

balls with the coach on

the side of the grid.

The coach plays a ball into the grid

of four players. The players control

the ball and pass it to each other so

that every player touches it at least

twice.

Observe the

players’ touch in

both passing and

receiving.

Author: Tom Fleck Coaches Connection Topic: Receiving & Passing Lesson Plan Age: U12

3 Receive & Pass - Pressure Add a goal in part 2. 1. Same as above, only now after

the coach plays the ball, a

defending player tries to disrupt

the passes.

2. Take this same activity to goal,

using different numbers of

attackers and defenders

See which players

use the proper

pass to get out of

trouble.

Encourage

players to shoot

when the

opportunity

arises.

4 Group Activity (tactics – decisions) Play on half field. Divide the number of players into two

teams. A team must complete four, five or

six passes before they shoot on goal. Each

time a team loses possession the pass count

begins again.

Look for good

choices on the

part of the

players. See

which players

move without the

ball (indicates

thinking – when

and where

movement)

5 Cool-Down Balance on one leg with

the other leg straight ion

front of you.

1. pull toes back

2. point toes down

3. turn foot in

4. turn foot out

Lie on your back and bend one knee in toward

your chest. Straighten the bent leg upward.

Do not use the hand to hold or pull the leg.

Once the leg is extended rotate

the foot out away from the

midline of the body and then in

toward the midline.

Author: Greg Maas National Youth License Topic: Shooting to Score

LESSON PLAN Age: U12

Activity Name Description Diagram Coaching Points Fundamental Technical ball striking work in pairs, one ball between two. Use half a field and create numerous 4 yard wide goals with cones. Stretch.

Begin with passing through the cones

to your partner. Go to a different set of cones each time.

Focus only on inside, instep and bending balls on the ground.

Add 2-4 neutral defenders as opposition in the area. Rotate.

X. X

Body mechanics and

control Body position and

balance Eye on the ball Quality of preparation

touch Proper selection of

contact surface

Match Related 1 2 v 2 + 1 with goalkeepers to two large goals (20 x 25 area or as needed). Neutral player plays for team in possession.

Rotate attack between the X’s and O’s

each time. Example: X’s attack and O’s defend, once X’s shoot, score, etc., the O’s receive another ball and attack while two new X’s enter the field to defend – flying changes.

If necessary, add an additional neutral player to create a 4 v 2 to increase scoring opportunities.

25 yds.

20 yds.

Aggressive and positive

mentality to go to goal When to shoot, pass or

dribble Supporting angle and

distance to ball Combination play Unbalancing the defense

GK N O O

X. X GK

Author: Greg Maas National Youth License Topic: Shooting to Score

LESSON PLAN Age: U12

Match Related 2 2 v 2 with goalkeepers to two large goals (20 x 25 area or as needed).

Attacking team looks for early

opportunities to shoot and score. A goal scored by combining with your

teammate is worth two. Add two neutral players (one on each

side of the grid) who combine with the team in possession of the ball. Note: limit the neutral player to one or two touches to maintain realistic speed of play.

25 yds.

20 yds.

Creativity and deception Vision and anticipation Tactical application to

the game (i.e., placement vs. power and positioning to gain an advantage)

Timing and shape of attacking runs

Ability to create space for each other

Match Condition 4 v 4 with goalkeepers to two large goals (30 x 40 area or as needed).

No restrictions.

40 yds.

30 yds.

Correct attacking shape

and balance of team Frame the goal Find a way to score Resiliency – rebound

mentality All of the above

Cool Down Dynamic movements and static stretching.

Focus on major muscle groups. Reduce heart rate.

Review session

GK O O

X. X GK

GK O X X O O

X. O X GK

Author: Julian Owen National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Shooting



Points 1 Warm up/fundamental

One goalkeeper, two strikers and one portable goal (cones). A1 strikes the ball at the keeper. Keeper then roles the ball to A2 and A2 then strikes the ball at the keeper. Add competition.

^ A1* GK A2 ^

• Angle of approach • Hips towards targets • Keep shots low • Accuracy before

power

2 One v One One v one to two goals with goalkeepers in

each goal. Play 1 v 1 until the ball is out of bounds, or a goal is scored. Grid is 20 yards long by 15 yards wide.

^ ^ GK* 1 v 1 GK ^ ^

• Preparation touch • Take shot early • Accuracy before power • Decision on foot surface

3 Two v Two with Two Goalkeepers

Same rules as above. ^ ^ GK* 2 v 2 GK ^ ^

• Decision making early • When to pass, dribble or

shoot • Preparation touch

4 Four v Four with Two Goalkeepers

As above. Grid size is 30 yards long by 20 yards wide. Winning team stays on the field, play to two goals or play for three minutes.

^ ^ GK 4 v 4 GK ^ ^

• Decision making • Early shots • Preparation touch

Author: Julian Owen National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Shooting


5 Scrimmage: Play according to US Youth Soccer rules for U12.

Play an in-squad match to allow the players opportunities to practice shooting under match pressure.

US Youth Soccer U12 regulation field and goal.

Observe the players technical and tactical decisions concerning their shots on goal.

6 COOL DOWN Allow enough time at the end of the match for a cool-down.

Author: Sam Snow National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Spatial Awareness



Points 1. WARM-UP: PAINT THE GRASS Pairs with one ball go into a 10-yard by 15-yard grid. Three rounds with a stretch between each round.

The coach has the watch and the players have thirty seconds to use the ball as a “paint brush” and “paint” (via passing) as much of the grass in the grid as they can.

10 yds. 15 yds.

The intent is to get the players to move, work on passing and receiving techniques, to communicate and solve problems together.

2. SEQUENCE PASSING The players organize themselves into groups of five to seven. Players are numbered 1-5(7) and must pass in that sequence, 1 to 2, and 2 to 3 and so on

All passing is done on the move, no standing allowed. Divide into two or three groups with all groups using the same field. The groups have to play through, over and around each other, which increases the demand on vision and communication and off the ball movement.

ing area to half of the

ts with one ball and the hang of it add a ich increases the tempo A player should not get balls.

The intent is to promote vision and communication between the players without the pressure of opponents. The activity will cause the players to work on the techniques of passing and receiving. Rhythm of play and timing of support runs will improve. Off the ball players must get into the field of vision of the teammate with the ball. A dynamic run should be made to show for the ball.

X1. O5 X4 X2 O3X3 O2 O4 X5

X. X

with 5(7) passing to 1. VARIATIONS: 1. Reduce the play

original size. 2. Each group star

once they have second ball, whof the session. caught with two



3. CROSSING GAME The players should organize themselves into groups of four to play 4v4. The training grid is 40 yards long by 30 yards wide. Corner flags or tall cones should be used for goals and disc cones to mark the corners of the grid. The goals are set up diagonally from one another and ten yards in from the goal line.

Players can score from either side of the goal and the game doesn’t stop after a goal is scored. Play a normal 4v4 match except for goals being scored from either side of the goal. Because of the angled goals there will be more crosses into areas in front of the goalmouth. Many goals can be scored under match conditions in a short time period. Teamwork in preparation of attack and defense will improve.

40 yds. 30 yds.

This activity promotes group movement (tactic) and involves transition. The techniques of dribbling, passing, receiving, shooting, heading, tackling and crossing will have the chance to emerge. As a bonus fitness will also improve in a fun and competitive fashion.

X2 O3 X1

X4 .O1O2 X3 O4



4. THREE TEAM GAME The players organize themselves into three groups of five plus a goalkeeper in each goal. Use a regulation field and goals for the age group. Each group keeps track of their own score. Goalkeepers act as their own team.

Divide the field into thirds-defensive, midfield and attacking. Place each group (X, Z & O) into a third. The group Z in the midfield third has the ball. Group Z chooses one goal to attack and plays against the group X in that third. The group O at the other end is resting. Only the group in possession of the ball may enter the midfield third. If group Z scores they keep the ball, go back to the midfield third and attack the group O goal. If the defending group X wins the ball and gets it into the midfield third then group Z stays in the final third and group X now attacks against group O.

This is a complex environment and will require the highest level of concentration from the players. It will take them awhile to get the hang of it, so be patient. While this is a match related activity, it may be the most complex activity in this training session. Encourage one and two touch passing in the midfield third to change the point of attack and to get targets forward of the ball. A multitude of techniques, offensive and defensive tactics can be taught in this activity. The coach should focus in this lesson on creating space.

X K X X X X Z Z Z Z Z O O O O O

K



5. ALL UP & ALL BACK Play a full field match of 8v8. Follow the US Youth Soccer rules for 8v8 U12 soccer. Use a painted/chalked line or small disc cones to mark the halfway line.

For a goal to count all field players of the attacking team must be over the halfway line. If any of the field players are not over the halfway line and in the opponent’s half of the field then the goal does not count and a goal kick follows. Let them play under this condition until it is obvious they all understand it. Then if the coach feels they are ready the second condition can be added to the game. When a goal is scored against the defending team they must have all of their players in their half of the field or the goal counts double.

The intent of these conditions is to work on team communication, off the ball runs, vision, fitness and most importantly compactness.

K O O O O O O O X X X X X X X K

COOL-DOWN

by Tom Goodman, M.Ed. MYSA Director of Training and Evaluation

Objective/Purpose: This session will help players to recognize their own shape and the shape of the team as it relates to speed of play (playing the game faster). This takes into account field awareness and vision, as well as physical speed, technical speed and tactical speed.

1) Inter-passing in 4’s (15-20 minutes): Players pass the ball within their group. Three of the players position themselves about 10-15 yards apart, forming a triangle shape (one central player and two outside players). They pass the ball back and forth to each other (short passes), while the fourth player (long player) positions himself/herself centrally about 25-30 yards away. After 4-5 short passes, the long player calls for the ball. The ball is played into the long player. The two outside players move quickly to support the long player, forming the triangle shape at the other end of the grid. The deepest central player stays home. The same passing sequence continues at the opposite end of the grid. The activity continues in this manner for 3-4 minutes to develop a smooth rhythm in the passing sequence. Players consistently keep themselves and the ball moving. Version 2: Only 2-3 passes prior to the long pass.

Coaching Points: Clean up technique of passing and receiving. Intelligent movement, head up, preparing to receive the ball, surveying the area, looking for their target early, anticipation, passing accuracy and pace, keeping appropriate individual and group shape, playing in the direction that you are facing. 2) 4v0 and 4v0 (15-20 minutes): Same activity as in #1 above, but with two groups of 4 playing on the same field and playing through each other (red and yellow groups). Each group has its own ball and only concentrates on moving up and down the grid possessing their ball only. No defending. Variation: Add 1 or 2 bandits (in blue) to try to steal the balls. Coaching Points: Reinforce coaching points above as they play in traffic. When bandits are added, players must make better and faster decisions to eliminate pressure and successfully possess the ball. Proper individual and group shape is crucial to this success.

3 ) 6v6 Zone Game (20-25 minutes): Play a 6v6 game on a field 40 yards wide x 60 yards long. Create zones with cones at each end approximately 10 yards deep and the full width of the field. Each team defends the zone behind them and attacks the zone opposite them. A team cannot enter the zone it is defending. A team can enter the zone it is attacking. A point is awarded to a team that successfully dribbles the ball into the zone or makes a well-timed pass into the zone as a teammate arrives to receive it. Version 2: Describe a scenario and put time limits on the game to speed up play…i.e. It is a tie game with 2 minutes remaining. The red team must win the game to advance into the play-offs. Coaching Points: Maintain the integrity of individual/group/team attacking shape while playing under the pressure of even numbers. Talk about the tactical speed of the attacking players…speed of the 1st attacker to find forward options, if they are on; speed of the 2nd attackers to provide supporting options to the 1st attacker; overall speed of play of the group. Reinforce coaching points made throughout the session. 4) 6v6, 7v7 or 8v8 Match (25-30 minutes): Field size appropriate to age and numbers. Play the game with goalkeepers. As in Version 2 of Activity 3 above, describe a scenario that will put the pressure of time on one of the teams…i.e. With 5 minutes remaining in the game, the red team is winning by a goal; the yellow team needs a draw to advance into the championship round of the tournament. Coaching Points: Maintain the integrity of individual/group/team attacking shape while playing under the pressure of the Game. Coach their attacking shape as it relates to the thirds or halves of the field. Teach the goalkeeper to coach the team shape from his/her vantage point. Cool-Down…3-Player Juggling (10 minutes) A can only juggle with his feet, B can only juggle with her thighs and C can only juggle with his head. Each player in the group has a max of 5 consecutive juggles. A, B and C must try to juggle as many times as possible as a group. If they drop the ball, they can start again. After a few minutes, change the juggling surfaces within each group.

U12 Systems of Play Sam Snow

Director of Coaching Education

US Youth Soccer Game format: 8 vs. 8

Possible formations: 3-2-2; 3-3-1; 2-3-2

•••• All formations allow the players to execute the principles of play

•••• All players must attack and defend in this system of play

•••• All formations, when played on an appropriate U12 size field, allow the players to:

o switch the point of attack

o attack the far post on corner kicks and from the

flow of play

o stay compact

•••• 3-3-1 formation may require the center forward to play ‘off-center’ to one side. This then makes

it possible to combine with the center midfielder

and an outside midfielder.

•••• The opposite flank is now open for overlap attack by the outside fullback and midfielder.

•••• 3-2-2 formation is the easiest in which to form triangles around the ball.

•••• It is the easiest in which to provide support on offense and defense.

•••• It is the easiest formation to coach and therefore may be best suited to the novice coach.

•••• 2-3-2 formation is the most demanding on the players and coach.

•••• This formation emphasizes transition and the tactical awareness that makes transition possible.

•••• Considerable demand of vision and communication is placed upon the players.

•••• Zone defense, requiring tactical growth, is mandatory.

Author: Mark Gibbs National Youth License Course Topic: Tackling



Points 1 Knock Out

O players try to tackle the X players with the ball – O will count how many times they make a tackle. Repeat the activity with players playing for 30 seconds each time and keep score each time.

▲ ▲ x x 6 x 6 grids O x ▲ ▲

Supporting foot next to the ball. Lean forward from the shoulders.

2 1 vs. 1 Battle Ladder

1 point for a tackle 1 point for a goal 3 points for a goal that happens after a tackle

O O O ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ x x x O O O ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ x x x

Lock the tackling foot’s ankle with toes pointed slightly forward.

3 Line soccer. 2 vs. 2 3 vs. 3

When a player scores from a block tackle he/she gets 3 points and a regular goal counts as 1 point. Progress this activity from 2 vs. 2 to 3 vs. 3 and use the same rules each time.

▲ ▲ X X O O ▲ ▲

Tackle with the full body weight.

• Close the ball down quickly.

• Try to win the ball back as soon as possible.

Author: Mark Gibbs National Youth License Course Topic: Tackling


4 8 vs. 8 or 6 vs. 6 The “time zones”

Regular game - if you tackle within the final third of the field. 4 points + 1 point for a goal

4 pts 3 pts 2 pts A M D D M A

Commit fully to the tackle.

5 Cool down Juggling and Stretching ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Author: Sam Snow National Youth Certificate Course Topic: 3rd Attacker



Points 1. WARM-UP 12 players with one ball each.

Dribbling, turning, changing speed, direction, etc. STRETCH

1. Ankle warm-up: Balance on one leg with the other leg straight to front of you. Pull your toes back. Point your toes down. Turn your foot in. Turn your foot out.

2. Hip Flexion with knee extension: Balance on one leg and bring the other knee up towards your chest. Straighten the bent leg toward the sky.

3. Hip extension: Balance on one leg, tighten your buttocks and bring the other leg straight behind you. Keeping your thigh still and slightly behind the standing leg, bend your free leg.

4. Body curl: lie on your back. Bend your knees into your chest and put your hands behind your head. Exhale and curl your upper body and pelvis toward each other like you are crunching into a ball.

Gradually work up to match speed.



2. 3 VS. 1 Use a 40-yard long by 30-yard wide grid. Use regulation goals for the age group. Begin the activity as a 3 vs. 0 play. Build to a 3 vs. 1 activity.

Getting open to the game

Flank players get the backside to the outside

Wall passes Double passes 3 man combinations Decisions on when to

shoot, pass or dribble



3. 3 VS. 2 Use a 40-yard long by 30-yard wide grid. Use regulation goals for the age group. Begin activity as a 3 vs. 1 play. Build up to 3 vs. 2.

Timing of runs Creating space Stay wide Backside to the

outside Angle of support Distance of support Disguise passes Decisions on when to




4. 3 VS. 3 Use a 40-yard long by 30-yard wide grid. Use regulation goals for the age group. Play 3 vs. 3.

Connection with other attackers

Timing Create space Angles Distance Width Technique – skill-

disguise Penetration

5. 5 VS. 5 + GKs. Use a regulation U12 field according to the US Youth Soccer rules.

The team (X) being coached plays a 3-2 formation. The opponents (O) start in a 2-1-2 formation. If the activity is successful then the opposing team (O) goes to a 3-2 formation. Opposing team (O) must shoot within four passes.

Starting position Proper spacing

between attackers Body posture First touch should be

forward Look for wall pass

with midfielders

K X X X

X X. O O O O O

K




Points 1. WARM-UP 12 players with one ball each.

Dribbling, turning, changing speed, direction, etc. STRETCH

1. Ankle warm-up: Balance on one leg with the other leg straight to front of you. Pull your toes back. Point your toes down. Turn your foot in. Turn your foot out.

2. Hip Flexion with knee extension: Balance on one leg and bring the other knee up towards your chest. Straighten the bent leg toward the sky.

3. Hip extension: Balance on one leg, tighten your buttocks and bring the other leg straight behind you. Keeping your thigh still and slightly behind the standing leg, bend your free leg.

4. Body curl: lie on your back. Bend your knees into your chest and put your hands behind your head. Exhale and curl your upper body and pelvis toward each other like you are crunching into a ball.

Gradually work up to match speed.



2. 3 VS. 1 Use a 40-yard long by 30-yard wide grid. Use regulation goals for the age group. Begin the activity as a 3 vs. 0 play. Build to a 3 vs. 1 activity.

Getting open to the game

Flank players get the backside to the outside

Wall passes Double passes 3 man combinations Decisions on when to




3. 3 VS. 2 Use a 40-yard long by 30-yard wide grid. Use regulation goals for the age group. Begin activity as a 3 vs. 1 play. Build up to 3 vs. 2.

Timing of runs Creating space Stay wide Backside to the

outside Angle of support Distance of support Disguise passes Decisions on when to




4. 3 VS. 3 Use a 40-yard long by 30-yard wide grid. Use regulation goals for the age group. Play 3 vs. 3.

Connection with other attackers

Timing Create space Angles Distance Width Technique – skill-

disguise Penetration

5. 5 VS. 5 + GKs. Use a regulation U12 field according to the US Youth Soccer rules.

The team (X) being coached plays a 3-2 formation. The opponents (O) start in a 2-1-2 formation. If the activity is successful then the opposing team (O) goes to a 3-2 formation. Opposing team (O) must shoot within four passes.

Starting position Proper spacing

between attackers Body posture First touch should be

forward Look for wall pass

with midfielders

K X X X

X X. O O O O O

K

THROW-IN PLAYS

A throw-in is a dead ball situation. Remember that the throw-in is a pass and so it should have the same

qualities as a pass made on the field of play. As with any pass a throw-in made into the field of play

must be for penetration or possession.

QUALITIES OF A GOOD PASS

ACCURACY, PACE, ANGLE, HEIGHT, TIMING, DISGUISE

Sometimes a throw-in can simply be made to an open teammate if the opposition marks poorly.

However if the opposition marks well on a throw-in then it must be approached as a set play. Follow the

K.I.S.S. Principle here – Keep It Simple Stupid. The intent is simply to shake off a marker just enough to

receive the throw-in from a teammate. If penetration into the attacking third or toward the opponents’

goal can be achieved then so much the better. Yet the most important objective of a throw-in is to keep

possession of the ball.

Of course any sort of set play for the throw-in will go wasted with a foul throw. So every player on the

team needs to know how to make a throw-in and should practice the technique. When using the throw-

in as an offensive weapon, it is most effective if thrown on a flat trajectory and with maximum speed.

This makes it much more difficult for the defense to judge the distance and speed of the throw. It also

reduces the time necessary for defenders to react, to mark opposing players, and follow the flight of the

ball. Aim the throw at the receiver’s feet of head or into space for the receiver to run onto the ball. The

throw must be in accordance with Law 15. Here are three simple exercises that players can do alone to

practice the throw-in technique.

Exercise 1: start on the back, two hands on the ball, arms stretched out above the head. Sit-up and

throw the ball against the wall. Abdominal muscles, back muscles and a whip like action make a good

throw-in.

Exercise 2: While kneeling hold the ball with both hands in a W, above and a little behind the head. Arch

the back like a sling. Pick a spot on the wall and aim the ball at it.

Exercise 3: Standing now recoil, hands behind the ball, arch and whip the ball forward. Keep the feet

together (once this style is perfected then stagger the feet apart).

In each exercise vary the distance to the wall. Always have a mark, high or low, on the wall as a target to

improve accuracy. With the standing throw use the lines on the court/field or mark a mark with tape in

the floor when in a gym or a line in the dirt when outside.

After the exercise diagram for practicing the technique of the throw-in are two tactical plays for a group

of players to practice.

X1 = thrower

Throw to X2 if his checking run is unmarked and X2 can then turn with the ball to the inside. Throw to

X3 if X2 is marked. The throw should be forward into space for X3 to run onto.

X2 = diagonal checking run to X1.

X3 = square checking run to X1 and then a sharp turn up field to receive the throw from X1 or to support

X2 if the throw goes to him.

X1 = thrower

X2 = checks to the ball to receive the throw-in (1) and lays off (2) the ball into the path of X3

X3 = off the ball run between X1 and X2 to receive the ball from X2 and then dribble to penetrate

HUNT4SOCCER

Working with 8- to 12-year-olds:

1. Children of the same age may differ a good deal in motor skill development. A

child’s motor skills develop in a particular sequence: first they learn to crawl, then to

walk, and then to run, jump and hop, in that order. There is a developmental

sequence in learning a single technique too. As players practice a particular

technique such as kicking they use their bodies more effectively each time and reach

a higher level of development in that technique.

2. Children progress through motor development sequences at their own rate. Players of

the same age may be at different development levels because of differences in motor

ability and in the amount of time they have practiced the technique. The important

thing is that each player shows continued progress.

3. Children of the same age will differ in physiological development (bone growth and

muscular strength). Stars within their sport are often more advanced physiologically

than others their own age.

4. They are loaded with energy and must be given rest periods.

5. Compared to other periods in a child’s life these are the slow years in physical

growth, making it the best time to learn new techniques.

6. Children like to play with others but side by side, rather than together – “Me first…”

rather than “Let’s both do this…” It’s a difficult time to teach tactics. Indeed the

focus should be on teaching ball skills.

7. Children have not yet learned the skills of compromise and team play. Expect

frequent argument. Do not interfere with their arguments, as it is a part of their

learning process.

8. You should not expect the children to play a team game the way adults would.

9. You should bend the rules to fit their physical and mental maturity. Fewer players

result in more touches with the ball. Equipment suitable to their age and size results

in better play.

10. Team games call for social and mental skills that they are just starting to develop.

11. They have not learned to accept mistakes – their own or others.

12. They lack the ability to make quick decisions.

13. Adult reactions to their efforts are often mistaken and become a blow to their self-

confidence.

14. They are in need of understanding and encouragement.

The HUNT4SOCCER program will have four stations at each session. The stations

simply serve as a way to organize the training space, to divide the players into smaller

groups for more repetition and to make the circumstances more manageable for the

coaches. The training session will progress through dribbling to passing to shooting to

small-sided games.

Hospital Tag The activity is played with one ball per player in a 20 x 20 yard grid. Players dribble and

try to tag other players. Each time a player is tagged the spot touched is now ‘injured’.

The player must hold that spot and continue dribbling. The second time they are touched,

they hold that spot, but do not release the first spot. The third time they are touched, the

player goes to the ‘hospital’ to see the ‘doctor’ (coach) and do some minimal activity to

get ‘healed’ and rejoin the game. Play for eight to ten minutes.

Pac Man Each player has a ball in this activity and they are all placed around the outside of the

grid. Use a 20 x 20 yard grid and the space used could be larger if numbers dictate. One

player with a ball (Pac Man) dribbles and tries to pass the ball to hit another player in the

legs with the ball. Players try to avoid getting hit with the ball. Once a player is hit he

gets his ball and becomes a Pac Man. The activity continues until all of the players have

been hit and have their ball.

Variation: two or three players are “it” (Pac Man or Pac Woman) to start, each with a ball

Gates Passing The players pair up and have one ball per pair. The grid is 25 x 25 yards and is marked

with tall cones. Disc or flat cones are used inside the grid to make ‘gates’ that the players

pass the ball through to their partner. The ‘gates’ should vary in width and angles. The

pairs dribble and pass around the grid and try to make clean passes through the ‘gates’ to

the partner. Begin the activity with no time limit, but encourage the players to see how

many ‘gates’ they can pass the ball through.

Variations:

1. set a time limit (30 seconds) to get through as many ‘gates’ as possible; the next

time each pair tries to break their own record

2. do not require the players to pass through different ‘gates’

3. encourage passing with a variety of foot surfaces

Junkyard Soccer Divide the players into two teams with half as many balls as there are players. The

activity should be played in a 40 x 25 yard grid with a 10 yard neutral zone in the middle.

Each team starts with the same number of balls on each side. On the coach’s signal both

teams make long passes into the other team’s side. The objective is to pass the ball quick

enough to get all the balls on one side. When this occurs, award one point to the team

without any balls on their side or end the game. No one is allowed in the neutral zone,

this should prevent players from getting hit with a blind kick. If a ball stays in the neutral

zone the coach can go to put the ball back into play.

Variation:

The activity can be played with a time limit in which the team with the least number of

balls wins the round.

Balls Galore Two teams of six, including goalkeepers with three balls in the game. Play on half of a

field with goals. Play a small-sided game with the exception of playing with more than

one ball.

Group Round Robin Divide the kids into four teams of three and use goalkeepers. Play a 4 vs. 4 game on a 30

X 25 yard field with goals. Place two teams on the field with the remaining players

placed evenly around the field. The spare balls are with the coach who acts as the server.

The server plays a ball and both teams try to score. If a goal is scored or the ball goes

out-of-bounds the server immediately plays in another ball. The coach determines the

length of each round, usually one to four minutes. At the end of each round you can

either place two new teams on or take off the team that has been on the longest.

1 versus 1 Put the players into groups of four. Two players serve as the ‘goals’ on each end of the

playing area, about 15 x 10 yards. Two players are in the middle playing one on one.

The ‘goals’ stand with their feet apart and goals are scored by shooting the ball knee

height or lower through the goal. The ‘goals’ should each have a spare ball to put into

play after a goal has been scored through their legs or the ball has gone over the goal line.

They then run to fetch the ball that has gone out of play and run back to their position on

the goal line as the ‘goal’. A ball that goes out over the touchline is the responsibility of

the players in the middle to fetch. Play for 30 seconds to 1 minute and then have the

players switch roles.

2 versus 2 Triangle Goal Divide the players into groups of four and then in that group into pairs. A goal is made

with three cones in a triangle shape with one yard between each cone. The pairs play

two-on-two and score by hitting a cone with a shot. Play for 1 to 2 minutes per round and

a 30 second rest between rounds. Play two to three rounds depending upon the players’

energy. Be sure to have a sufficient space between the groups for safety.

4 versus 4 Match Play a four-on-four match. Use the US Youth Soccer U8 rules of play, regardless of the

age group. Do however use a size four ball.

References: The Baffled Parents Guide to Great Soccer Drills

By, Drs. Tom Fleck and Ron Quinn

Published by Ragged Mountain Press

P.O. Box 220

Camden, ME. 04843

US Youth Soccer Small-Sided Games Manual

www.usyouthsoccer.org

by Tom Goodman, M.Ed. MYSA Assistant Director of Coaching Objective/Explanation: To provide a training environment that will foster a flatter, zone-like defense, especially in the back 1/3. Zonal defending requires focus, discipline, athleticism and quality defensive technique and decision making. This requires functional training for the individual as well as specific units of players. In these activities, if possible, form teams that include the players that work together as a defensive unit, a midfield unit, etc. As coaches, we must give the defensive side of the game much more of our attention. 1) INTERPASSING IN 3’s WITH DEFENSIVE APPROACH (15 Minutes): Player #1 and Player #2 pass the ball back and forth over a 5-10 yard distance while Player #3 drifts 15-20 yards away from the other two players. After 4-5 passes, Player #1 passes the ball to Player #3. As the ball is traveling to Player #3, Player #2 provides immediate pressure to Player #3 and Player #1 immediately moves into a cover position behind Player #2. Player #3 can either try to dribble past Player #2 or player #3 can try to split the two players with a pass. The warm-up activity then continues with Player #2 and Player #3 passing while Player #1 drifts away, etc. Coaching Points:

• The 1st defender needs to “approach fast, arrive slow”, bend run, have correct stance: be on their toes, with knees bent, one foot forward, one back. The 1st defender “affects” the ball…gets the head of the 1st attacker down by getting close to the 1st attacker, approximately arm’s length

• The 2nd defender needs to be at approximately a 30 degree backward angle to the 1st defender on the side that the first defender is showing the 1st attacker; cannot be too far back or too close to 1st defender. If the first defender is tighter to the ball, the 2nd defender provides closer cover. If the 1st defender is looser to the ball, the 2nd defender is more detached from the 1st defender.

• The 2nd defender communicates where to steer the ball; tells 1st defender which way to push the attacker.

2) 2 v 2 TO END LINES (20 Minutes): 15yd x 20yd grid. (Grid is wider than it is long) This is a 2v2 game. A point is awarded when a team dribbles over the opposite 20 yard end line.

Coaching Points:

• Reinforce 1st and 2nd defender responsibilities as the 2v2 game proceeds. It is crucial that Pressure and Cover, the relationship and connection between the 1st and 2nd defenders, is given plenty of time and repetition.

• Defensive decisions to pressure or cover must be anticipated and made as the ball is traveling (as the attacking players are playing the ball).

• Knowing when to pressure or cover is crucial to winning the ball back. Verbal and visual communication between the 1st and 2nd defenders is imperative!

3) 4 v 4 SIX GOAL GAME (20 minutes): 30yd x 45yd grid. (Field is wider than it is long) The midfield line is the restraining line (offsides line). Simply a 4v4 game. Each team of 4 attempts to score in one of the 3 goals opposite them. Work with one of the teams to help them maintain the flat shape of the defending action. Coaching Points:

• There must always be pressure on the ball. There may be one or two 2nd defenders depending on where the ball and supporting attack players are located.

• 3rd defender play/positioning is now crucial to the defensive success. The 3rd defender must provide balance to the defensive action by being in a position that is not too deep (somewhat flat in relation to the 2nd defender(s)) and not too detached. The 3rd defender works on squeezing space centrally.

• Changing roles quickly as the ball moves is vital to the success of the flat defense. It takes discipline, fitness and tactical speed.

4) 5 v 4 + GKPR (20 minutes): 1/2 field to one goal and 2 counter goals or targets. Defend the goal with the purpose to counter attack. Keeper takes on sweeper role behind the flat back four (4). Coaching Points: reinforce coaching points made throughout the training session. The coaching points made in these more realistic game-like environments will be more beneficial to the players and will transfer to the game. 5) Match…7v7, 8v8 or 9v9 (30 minutes): Coaching Points: reinforce coaching points made throughout the training session. The coaching points made in these more realistic game-like environments will be more beneficial to the players and will transfer to the game. 6) Cool-down (5-10 minutes): Individual juggling; challenge players to see who can juggle the most in a 2 minute period.

Author: John Thomas Coaches Connection Topic: CROSSING...

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