Fort Worth YMCA Soccer Coaches Practice Manual

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1 Fort Worth YMCA Soccer Coaches Practice Manual CHARACTERISTICS OF 1 st Grade 2 nd Grade Attention span is a bit longer than younger players but still not at a "competitive" stage Inclined towards small group activities. Always in motion: scratching; blinking; jerking; rocking... Easily bruised psychologically. They will remember negative comments for a long time. Shout praise. Give "hints". They want everybody to like them. Developing physical confidence. (Most are able to ride a bike.) Starting to imitate older players or sports heroes. Want the same "gear" as them. Lack sense of pace. They go flat out until they drop. Skeletal system growing rapidly. Often results in apparent lack of coordination. Cardiovascular and temperature regulation system is not developed. Their heart rate peaks quickly and they overheat quickly. Make sure that they get adequate water breaks. Limited understanding with personal evaluation. "If they try hard, they performed well" regardless of the actual performance. Thus, they need to be encouraged constantly, and asked "Now, can you do this?" Better at recognizing when the ball is out of play, and remembering what goal they are going for... but, in the heat of battle, they will sometimes still forget. They still find it difficult to really be aware of more than one thing at a time. INVOLVING THE PARENTS It is imperative that coaches get the parents involved. Not only are they are a major resource for your team, but the 1 st & 2 nd graders still view their parents as the most significant people in their lives. A pre-season meeting should be held with the parents so that objectives and team policies can be addressed. Some topics that you may want to address at this meeting are: A means of contacting everyone without one person doing the entire calling. Choosing a team administrator-someone to handle all of the details. Complete all paperwork required by the YMCA. Discuss the laws of the game. Training and game schedules. What each player should bring to training: inflated ball, filled water bottle, soccer attire, shin guards (Cleats are not mandatory.) Most importantly, your philosophy about coaching 1 st and 2 nd Graders. Let them know that everyone plays; that the game does not look like the older player's games; that you are there to ensure that their player is safe and has a good time, as well as learn about soccer. What your expectations for them is during game time. How do you want them to cheer? Do they know that they should not coach from the sidelines?

2 THINGS YOU CAN EXPECT Players will be able to follow 2 or 3 step instructions and are starting to have a good understanding about what it means to play a "game". They are also starting to cooperate more with their teammates. In fact, they now will recognize that they even have teammates by the fact that they occasionally, and I mean occasionally, will pass the ball to a teammate, on purpose. Often, they will repeat the phrase "I can't do that!", but, will quickly run to you to show you that they can, even when they only think that they can. Some other things that you can expect to happen during a season with this age group are: There will be at least falls during the season, but, now they will usually pick themselves back up. The puddle in front of the goal is still too tempting to resist. Keep a spare pump in your bag as the players usually do not realize that their ball is flat until they try to kick it, or the coach tells them that it is flat. Some of the girls are a lot tougher than the boys. It will be impossible to remember who is whose best friend as you try to make up teams. School conflicts will come up... please, let them go (they must face their teachers five days a week). COACHING RATIONAL Some of the players that are playing as a 7 year old have had two years of soccer experience and thus have already touched the ball a few thousand times in their lives. This, however, does not mean that these players are ready for the mental demands of tactical team soccer. True, they do have some idea of the game, but the emphasis still needs to be placed on the individual's ability to control the ball with his/her body. They are still there to have fun, and because some of the players may be brand new to the sport, it is imperative that activities are geared towards individual success and participation. Following are some more items that a coach of 1 st and 2 graders should consider. Small sided soccer is the best option for these players. Not only will they get more touches on the ball, but, it is an easier game to understand. Because of rapid growth spurts during this age, players will go through times when they seem to have lost control of their body. What they could easily do 2 weeks ago now seems unattainable. Be patient. Training once or twice a week is plenty, and should not last longer than one hour and fifteen minutes. Each player should bring their own size #4 ball to training. Learning how to control it should be the main objective. They need to touch it as many times as possible during fun activities that will engage them. Challenge them to get better by practicing on their own. There is no rule which states that they can't learn by themselves, no matter how important we think we are. Incidental things are important. They are forming the habits that will impact their. Ask them to work with others to solve a particular challenge. Start them with just one partner and work from there.

3 Activity TYPICAL TRAINING SESSION Fort Worth YMCA Practice Plan Coaching Points 1 st Activity (warm-up) Simon Says Have the players do several actions like clapping in In a rectangular area play Simon Says with the team. If a player does something they are not supposed to issue them a Gotcha! Play to see who can get the least Gotcha s. Examples of activities include dribbling in the area, change direction, stop the ball with your. Even throw in some trick one s like kick the ball as far away as you can. Progressions: 1 min. w/o ball, 1 min. w/ball at hands, 4 w/ball at feet between your legs and skipping to increase body awareness 2 nd Activity Monster Turnaround The players should be able to turn with the: In the same area have everyone dribbling around with a ball. Two monsters (coaches) should be moving around in the area as well. Players get a point for dribbling at the monsters and executing a turn without being tagged by the monster. Play for 30 seconds. Progressions: Play to try to beat your own score. Turn using the sole of foot. Turn using outside of foot. o Sole of the foot o Inside of the foot o Outside of the foot After players turn they should accelerate to get away from the monster 3 rd Activity Tigerball When someone is trying to stop their ball from being Each player has a ball except for the Tigers. At the coach s signal, the tigers (2) try to steal a ball from one of the other players. To win it, he must steal the ball with his feet and then hold it above his head in his hands. The tiger should then take the ball to the coach. Now, both players are tigers. Plan until only two people are left and then those players are the next tigers. Progressions: Use only left foot, outsides of feet, soles of feet. taken away, can they keep their body in between the ball and the defender? 4 th Activity Soccer Golf Requiring the players to hit a corner flag to finish out a Set up a golf course in the area and have the players golf in pairs. In order to complete a hole the players could be asked to pass their ball into a corner flag or to make the ball stop in a small grid. hole demands accuracy Requiring players to play the ball so that it stops in a small square demands that they play the ball with the proper amount of pace (weight) 5 th Activity (the game) Numbers Game Don t be afraid to have more than one 1v1 going on at Split the players into two teams and have them stand on opposite end lines. The game is played on a small soccer field. Assign each player a number on each end (1-5 on one side and 1-5 on the other side). Play a ball into the area and call out a number; those players must then sprint onto the field and play 1v1. Play until a goal is scored or the ball goes out of bounds. Progressions: Have more than one 1v1 game going on at the same time. Call out two numbers. Mix up the numbers. Scrimmage the same time Encourage players to shoot whenever they have a clear line of sight to the goal

4 Fort Worth YMCA Practice Plan Coaching Points 1 st Activity (warm-up) Island Game When dribbling for speed the players do not have to Use disc cones to set up small islands (small squares) in a large playing area. Have everyone dribble around in the area. On the coaches signal everyone must dribble with speed to an island; however, only two people are allowed per island. The player (or two) who does not get to an island scores one minus point. Play to see who has the least minus points. Progressions: Start game without balls and then add them. dribble the ball as close Their should be about five or six steps in between each touch of the ball 2 nd Activity Ball Stealing When someone is trying to stop their ball from being Split the team into two groups and give one group red vests and one group blue vests. Give one of the team s balls to dribble. Those players try to dribble inside the area without losing possession of their ball to the other team. The objective is to see which team, red or blue, has the most balls at the end. Players from the same team can work together to steal balls or to keep possession (passing???). Progressions: Rotate who starts with the balls. taken away, can they keep their body in between the ball and the defender? If you are going to lose your ball can you find a teammate to give your ball to? 3 rd Activity Everyone vs. Everyone Don t tell the players that they can t dribble through Set up several small gates in the playing area. Give half to threequarters of the team a ball. Players with a ball try to dribble/shoot through as many of the small gates as they can. Players without a ball try to steal a ball from someone who has one and then they try to score. Play multiple games and allow everyone to have a chance to beat their own score. Progressions: Define how goals are scored - by dribbling or shooting. the same gate twice, see if anyone is creative and dribbles through the same gate back and forth As soon as players go through a gate they should look up to find an open gate and then go for it! 4 th Activity Edge of the World Instead of having a line you could also have an end zone that the players try to get their ball to stop in Each player gets a ball and stands on one sideline of an area. The objective is for everyone to pass their ball so that is stops as close to the other sideline as possible. If the ball goes past the sideline it falls off the edge of the world. Players gets points for getting their ball within one yard (distance depends upon ability) of the line without going over. Progressions: Players play ball with laces, inside of foot, etc. 5 th Activity (the game) Outta There This game should be very fast paced In a 25 x 15 yard grid with a goal at each end, play 1v1. The coach stands on the touchline with a supply of ball and a small line of players on each side. The coach plays a ball in and the first person from each line plays 1v1. If a player scores they stay on and the other person leaves. A ball is immediately played back into the game. If the ball goes out of bounds both players are outta there. This should be a very fast paced game. Progressions: Start with 1v1 and progress to 2v2. Scrimmage Activity As soon as the ball goes out of bounds throw another ball in immediately The coach is the master of the balls, look to see for players that aren t having a lot of success and distribute the ball straight to them Vary how balls are distributed into the playing area

5 Fort Worth YMCA Practice Plan Activity Coaching Points 1 st Activity (warm-up) Ball Retrieval After a few commands the coach should move to force The coach tosses the ball for each player to bring back with his or her hands, elbow, forehead, etc. Have all the players gather closely around you, but not in a line. Each one hands you their ball, which you toss randomly into an open area where they have to go retrieve it and bring it back to you in the manner that you specify as quickly as possible. Progressions: Bring the ball back with two hands, one hand and one forehead, right foot only, etc. The coach should move around the area. Play in pairs now that the children are older. the players to look up before heading back This game is great for teaching body awareness, it s fun for the kids too! Start off by just asking the players to bring the ball back, see if anyone thinks to just pick it up and run it to you? 2 nd Activity Hospital Tag Typically, this game is an elimination game. The All players have a ball and are dribbling in an area. The coach is the doctor and stands outside the area. Players dribble in the area and try to tag each other. When tagged, the person has to hold that body part. Once a player is tagged for the third time they go to the doctor and do a task before coming back in. Play to see who can visit the doctor the least. Progressions: Can only dribble with one foot, outsides of feet, soles. players that get their balls kicked out first have to sit. The players that are eliminated first though are the players that need the most help with their shielding technique. The hospital gives them a chance to get back into the game and continue to practice. 3 rd Activity Crew vs. Riverhounds (from U6) If the teams are having trouble hitting cones put more Split the team into two groups and have them spread out and face each other. Between the two groups set up several large cones. One of the groups needs balls. On the coaches command one of the groups (make up names for them) strikes the ball and tries to topple as many cones as they can. The other team collects the balls and after the coach sets the cones back up they do the same activity. Progressions: Must strike ball with laces or inside of foot only. down Can the players lock their ankles (toes should be pointed up) and follow through in the direction of the target? 4 th Activity Soccer Marbles Can the players lock their ankles (toes should be Everyone needs to be in pairs with a ball for everyone. One player plays their ball and the other person tries to play their ball and hit the first ball while it is still moving. If the person misses the first person quickly goes to their ball and tries to play it to hit the second player s ball. Players get a point each time they hit the ball. Progressions: Must strike ball with laces, inside of foot, left foot only, etc. pointed up) and follow through in the direction of the target? 5 th Activity (the game) GK Game Physically demanding game Set up several small 10 x 20 yard fields and have the team play 2v2 in them. When a team is on defense they have to have one person drop back and be a goalie. When the defender steals the ball he passes the ball back to the goalie and they then start to attack. While this is happening the other team is having someone drop back into their goal. Comments: Have several games going at once and rotate the teams so everyone two person teams gets to play all the other teams. The nature of the game demands instant transition from attack to defense Scrimmage

6 Fort Worth YMCA Practice Plan Activity Coaching Points 1 st Activity (warm-up) Pair Tag Don t let games like this go on for too long, young kids Set up a fairly large area and have everyone get a partner. Everyone jogs around in the area and on the coaches signal one pre-designated person tries to tag the other as many times as they can in 10 seconds. Players get a point for each tag. Who can score the most points in five rounds? Progressions: Might be possible to add a ball, may be too difficult though. will go all out for about seconds and then they will be exhausted Player several short rounds rather than one or two very long rounds 2 nd Activity Shadow Running Stretching can be added to this game Everyone has a pair again. This time, one person moves around in an area while the other tries to shadow them, doing everything they do. The person can stop to stretch, change direction, pretty much whatever they want. Play for 20 seconds at a time. Progressions: Add a ball for each player. 3 rd Activity Coconut Shy Game Can the players lock their ankles (toes should be Everyone pairs up and stands 10 yards apart; one of the players needs a ball. In between the players is a ball on top of a disc cone. The players pass the ball back and forth trying to knock the ball (coconut) off of the cone. The person who knocks the ball off the cone puts in back on while the other person retrieves the game ball. Which pair can score the most points in a minute? Progression: Specify what surface they must use to strike the ball. pointed up) and follow through in the direction of the target? 4 th Activity Pairs Game Try to make sure everyone is with a partner of Set up several small gates inside an area (one more gate than the number of pairs). The players are divided into pairs who play 1v1 to the small gates. Each pair has a ball; whoever has the ball tries to dribble through as many gates as they can. When they lose the ball the other person tries to score as many points as they can as well. Progressions: Score by dribbling through a goal. Score by dribbling through the goal and stopping the ball within two yards for your opponent to take. relatively the same ability The progression is good because if one player is dominating the other player will get plenty of opportunities 5 th Activity (the game) 2v2 to multiple goals Have three or four small goals so their isn t a lot of Use the same set-up as in activity four but now each pair becomes a team. Play 2v2 into the multiple goals. Progressions: A team can score by dribbling through a goal. A team can score by passing through a goal. A team can score by passing the ball through a gate to their teammate on the other side. congestion Can we try to score on a goal where there is not a defender (very simple language for advanced tactical concept of playing the ball away from pressure) Scrimmage

7 Fort Worth YMCA Practice Plan Activity Coaching Points 1 st Activity (warm-up) Hunters and Hares The hares must constantly be looking all around for Players are in a marked playing area. One to three hunters have a ball and are hunters. The other players are hares. The hunters throw the ball at the hares (must hit hares below the waist). When a hare is hit by a ball, he picks it up and becomes a hunter. Progressions: The hares each have a ball and the hunters have to throw their ball and hit the hare s ball. Or, make it so the hunters have to kick the hare s ball. hunters who may try to throw a ball at them By making the hunters throw their ball at the hares ball the technique of shielding is introduced for the hares 2 nd Activity Foxes and Hunters Can hunters use disguise in their dribbling to catch a Players on the inside of a marked area are foxes. Players on the outside are hunters (have one to three). Hunters dribble into the grid and try to dribble their ball into the foxes so that it hits them below the knees. If a fox is hit, the fox drops down to one knee and tries to kick the ball away from the other hunters that are dribbling by. Once all of the foxes are down the teams switch roles. Time each team, the team that stays alive longest wins. Progressions: Specify how hunters must dribble. Give foxes a ball too. fox off guard? Once again, great vision is required by the foxes to look for hunters dribbling the ball at them Hunters could be required to kick their ball off of the fox s ball. 3 rd Activity Tigerball When someone is trying to stop their ball from being Each player has a ball except for the Tigers. At the coach s signal, the tigers (2) tries to steal a ball from one of the other players. To win it, he must steal the ball with his feet and then hold it above his head in his hands. The tiger should then take the ball to the coach. Now, both players are tigers. Plan until only two people are left and then those players are the next tigers. Progressions: Use only left foot, outsides of feet, soles of feet. taken away, can they keep their body in between the ball and the defender? 4 th Activity Tunnel Passing A fun little game to play that gets the children moving Two players face each other at a distance of one yard. Player one has 30 seconds to pass the ball as many times as possible through the tunnel formed by the separated legs of player two. While the first player is kicking the ball back and forth through the second player s legs; the second player should be counting how many times the first player kicks the ball through his or her legs. Progressions: Use left foot only, use only soles of both feet, etc. 5 th Activity (the game) German Game By changing how goals are scored different demands Set up several 20 x 10 yard playing areas. Have the player s play 2v2 inside the areas. Instead of scoring by kicking the ball through goals, players must score by dribbling the ball over his opponent s end line. Play for two minutes and then the teams rest for one minute. Switch who plays who as well. Comments: The pair that wins the most games could be the tournament winner. are placed on the players By taking away the goals, players must take on defenders and beat them to get to the line behind them, they can t just fire shots off and hope one gets through into the net Scrimmage

8 Fort Worth YMCA Practice Plan Activity Coaching Points 1 st Activity (warm-up) Simon Says Great game the kids will already know that can be used to improve body awareness In a rectangular area play Simon Says with the team. If a player does something they are not supposed to issue them a Gotcha! Play to see who can get the least Gotcha s. Examples of activities include dribbling in the area, change direction, stop the ball with your. Even throw in some trick one s like kick the ball as far away as you can. Progressions: 1 min. w/o ball, 1 min. w/ball at hands, 4 w/ball at feet 2 nd Activity Sharks and Minnows When someone is trying to stop their ball from being Mark off an area on the field as the pond. Choose a couple of players to be sharks they won t have balls, but they are on the prowl for someone else s. All the other players are minnows dribbling around in the pond. The sharks must try to take someone else s ball away or kick the person s ball out of the pond. If they succeed, then they become a minnow, and the person whose ball was kicked becomes the shark. taken away, can they keep their body in between the ball and the defender? Can we spin away from pressure (a defender)? 3 rd Activity Gate Dribbling Don t tell the players they can t dribble through the Divide the players into pairs. Set up a series of small goals or gates using disc cones throughout a 30 x 30 yard area. Each pair has one ball. In order to score a point one of the partners must dribble the ball through a goal. Can one player dribble the ball through a goal can the other get in front of another goal and receive a pass so he can then dribble through a goal? Play for 30 seconds at a time. Progressions: Specify how players must dribble. same gate twice, wait and see if anyone can figure it out 4 th Activity Gate Passing Don t tell the players they can not pass the ball through Using the same set-up as above, except now in order for pairs to score one partner must pass the ball through a gate to their partner on the other side. Make sure you have more goals than pairs. Play for 30 seconds at a time. the same gate twice Is it possible to pass the ball through two gates with one pass? Encourage the players not to get close to the gates when passing the ball through 5 th Activity (the game) Outta There This game should be very fast paced In a 25 x 15 yard grid with a goal at each end, play 1v1. The coach stands on the touchline with a supply of ball and a small line of players on each side. The coach plays a ball in and the first person from each line plays 1v1. If a player scores they stay on and the other person leaves. A ball is immediately played back into the game. If the ball goes out of bounds both players are outta there. This should be a very fast paced game. Progressions: Start with 1v1 and progress to 2v2. Scrimmage As soon as the ball goes out of bounds throw another ball in immediately The coach is the master of the balls, look to see for players that aren t having a lot of success and distribute the ball straight to them Vary how balls are distributed into the playing area

9 Fort Worth YMCA Practice Plan Activity 1 st Activity (warm-up) Island Game Use disc cones to set up small islands (small squares) in a large playing area. Have everyone dribble around in the area. On the coaches signal everyone must dribble with speed to an island; however, only two people are allowed per island. The player (or two) who does not get to an island scores one minus point. Play to see who has the least minus points. Progressions: Start game without balls and then add them. Coaching Points When dribbling for speed the players do not have to dribble the ball as close Their should be about five or six steps in between each touch of the ball 2 nd Activity Tail Tag Can anyone think to just pull out their own tail? Players run around in a 20 x 15 yard area. Players have a tail (practice vest) tucked into the back of their shorts. All of the players try to steal the other player s tail. When a player loses their tail they keep on playing. Play to see who can steal the most tails. Progressions: Who is the last player to have their tail taken? Each player has a ball. Have players dribble in a specified way. Each player could have three tails, one in back and one on each side Is it better to hide in a corner where there is no space or go into the middle where your back is exposed? 3 rd Activity Pac Man Can we fake like we are going to pass the ball and try Players are in a confined area, running around. Two players are Pac Man and have a ball outside of the area. On the coaches command the Pac Men (or Women) dribble into the area and try to pass their ball so that it hits one of the players below the knees. When a player is hit they go get a ball and join the original Pac Men. Progressions: Specify how players must strike the ball (laces, inside of feet, outside of feet) to make the players jump, and then hit them right when they land Players must lead the people who are running (pass the ball in front of them where they are going, not right at them so by the time the ball gets their the player is already gone) 4 th Activity Moving Target (In pairs) The coaches can move towards certain players who Players are in pairs and share a ball. The coach and a chosen assistant are holding a vest between them above waist height. The coach and assistant form a goal, and move around in an area. The players try to pass their ball through the moving goal to their partner. Obviously the players will bunch around the goal so the goal must move to open space to spread out the players. Progressions: Specify how the ball has to be played through the goal. Add a second moving goal. aren t having much success The coaches can very their speed to make the game easier or more demanding 5 th Activity (the game) German Game By changing how goals are scored different demands Set up several 20 x 10 yard playing areas. Have the player s play 2v2 inside the areas. Instead of scoring by kicking the ball through goals, players must score by dribbling the ball over his opponent s end line. Play for two minutes and then the teams rest for one minute. Switch who plays who as well. Comments: The pair that wins the most games could be the tournament winner. are placed on the players By taking away the goals, players must take on defenders and beat them to get to the line behind them, they can t just fire shots off and hope one gets through into the net Scrimmage

10 Fort Worth YMCA Practice Plan Coaching Points 1 st Activity (warm-up) Ball Retrieval After a few commands the coach should move to force The coach tosses the ball for each player to bring back with his or her hands, elbow, forehead, etc. Have all the players gather closely around you, but not in a line. Each one hands you their ball, which you toss randomly into an open area where they have to go retrieve it and bring it back to you in the manner that you specify as quickly as possible. Progressions: Bring the ball back with two hands, one hand and one forehead, right foot only, etc. The coach should move around the area. Play in pairs now that the children are older. the players to look up before heading back This game is great for teaching body awareness, it s fun for the kids too! Start off by just asking the players to bring the ball back, see if anyone thinks to just pick it up and run it to you? 2 nd Activity Freeze Tag Give the taggers a ball, in order to freeze someone they Break the team into three or four groups. One of the groups is the taggers and everyone else is running around in a marked area. When tagged the players have to stand with their legs apart and are frozen. To be unfrozen one of the other players must crawl through their legs. Time the groups and see which group can tag everyone the quickest. Progressions: Give everyone a ball, players are unfrozen when a ball is passed through their legs. When tagged, players should hold the ball they are dribbling over their head. have to pass the ball off of them, in order for them to be unfrozen one of their teammates has to crawl through their legs 3 rd Activity Hunters and Hares The hares must constantly be looking all around for Players are in a marked playing area. One to three hunters have a ball and are hunters. The other players are hares. The hunters throw the ball at the hares (must hit hares below the waist). When a hare is hit by a ball, he picks it up and becomes a hunter. Progressions: The hares each have a ball and the hunters have to throw their ball and hit the hare s ball. Or, make it so the hunters have to kick the hare s ball. hunters who may try to throw a ball at them By making the hunters throw their ball at the hares ball the technique of shielding is introduced for the hares 4 th Activity Marbles This requires accurate passes played at an appropriate pace (speed) One ball per person with players in pairs. One partner passes their ball five to ten yards away. The other partner plays their ball and tries to hit the first ball played. If they can do so, they get a point. If they miss, it is instantly the first player s turn again and they must play their ball to try to hit the second player s ball. Players try to be their partner to five or ten points. Progressions: Specify how the ball must be struck. 5 th Activity (the game) Numbers Game Don t be afraid to call out more than one number at a Split the players into two teams and have them stand on opposite end lines. The game is played on a small soccer field. Assign each player a number on each end (1-5 on one side and 1-5 on the other side). Play a ball into the area and call out a number; those players must then sprint onto the field and play 1v1. Play until a goal is scored or the ball goes out of bounds. Progressions: Have more than one 1v1 game going on at the same time. Call out two numbers. Mix up the numbers. Scrimmage Activity time to have either: o More than one 1v1 game going on at the same time OR o A 2v2 game going on

11 Additional Games That Can be Substituted Speed Dribbler To develop directing the first touch. Set out a 10x10 yard area. Group in pairs. One ball between the pair. Repeat in 5 other areas for a total of 12 players. Game objective: Player 1 passes the ball across the play area to player 2, who must control the ball with his foot angling the ball let or right. He must then dribble to the disc he is facing. Player 2 repeats the practice from a starting point. Progressions: Player 1 can put pressure on player 2 by trying to steal the ball before he can reach the disc. Player 1 cannot move until player 2 has made his first touch. 1. Move into line with the ball as early as possible. 2. Select the controlling surface, e.g., right or left foot. 3. Try to make a baby pass towards the cone using the inside or outside of your foot.

12 Minesweeper To develop passing accuracy in a small sided game. Set out a 30x40 yard area. Play 6 vs. 6. Place 5 discs with soccer balls on them on each end line. Game objective: Play 6 vs. 6 in the area. When the ball rolls out of bounds, it should be rolled in underhanded by a player. The object of the game is to score by knocking down 1 of the balls off a disc on your team s attacking end line. If a player knocks a ball off, he cores 5 points. If he passes through the middle of the balls on the ground, he scores 3 points. 1. Encourage the players to shoot at the target whenever possible. 2. Pass the ball, then move into space. 3. Try to pass the ball forwards and between the defenders. 4. Remember, A good pass follows the grass.

13 Tony Chestnut s Team Pass Masters To develop pass accuracy over short distances. Set out a 20x20 yard area. 1 team of 6 players. 3 balls per team. Place 6 cones at the center of the area approximately 3 yards apart. Repeat in another area for a total of 12 players. Game objective: Player 1 takes 2 steps back from the ball and passes the ball across the area to player 2. The goal is to strike the ball at the cones and knock over as many as possible. The first team to knock over all their cones is the winner. Progressions: 1. Progress to two touches. 2. Use only one soccer ball per team. 1. Place the non kicking foot directly alongside the ball, toes pointing at the target. 2. Keep your head over the ball. 3. Strike the ball with the inside of the foot.

14 Serve and Head To develop the ability to head the ball. Set out a 10x10 yard area. Group in pairs. 1 ball per pair. Repeat in 5 other areas for a total of 12 players. Game objective: Players 1 and 2 stand approximately 5 yards apart. Player 1 serves the ball underhand and with both hands to player 2. Player 2 attempts to head the ball back into the hands of player 1. As the practice progresses the players move further apart. Repeat in opposite direction. Progressions: 1. Encourage the players to head down to the feet of the server to control. 2. Serve the ball above the head to encourage players to leap for the ball Eyes open and mouth closed. 2. Make contact with the ball on the forehead. 3. Tense the neck muscles on impact. 4. Attack the ball.

15 Defending 2 on 1 To develop the role of the second defender. Set out a 10x20 yard area. Make groups of 3. 3 balls per group. Player 1 has a ball; the other 2 balls are placed on discs in the end line. Repeat in 3 other areas for a total of 12 players. Game objective: Player 1 passes the ball to player 3 who must advance the ball to the opposite end line without being dispossessed of it by player 1 or 2. Player 1 moves in to assume the correct defending position, forcing player 3 in the direction of player 2 by blocking the right side of the attacker. Players 1 and 2 combine to win the ball. If the defenders win the ball, have them attempt to knock a ball off a cone. Progressions: 1. Both defenders start on the same side of the area. 2. Progress to 2 vs Defenders assume the sideways position. 2. First defender should stop the attacker moving forward. 3. The second defender covers the open space. 4. Stay on your feet! Don t dive in.

16 Heading in Pairs To develop basic head techniques. Set out a 10x10 yard area. Group in pairs. One ball per pair. Repeat in 5 other areas for a total of 12 players. Game objective: Players 1 and 2 stand approximately 5 yards apart. Player 1 holds the ball with both hands in front of him. He brings the ball to his forehead and heads the all out of his own hands to player 2. Repeat in the opposite direction. Progressions: Player 1 tosses the ball out in front of himself so that he can head the ball to player Make contact with the ball on the forehead. 2. Bend backwards with the upper body and spring forward through the ball.

17 Defending 1 on 1 To develop tackling skills. Set out a 10x10 yard area. Group in pairs. One ball per pair. Repeat in 5 other areas for a total of 12 players. Game objective: Player is in possession of the ball. The player attempts to dribble his ball over the end line. The defender must attempt to tackle the player before he gets over the line. If the defender wins the ball, he takes it the other way. 1. Shadow the attacker. 2. Be patient. 3. Watch the ball. 4. Select the correct moment to tackle.

18 Defending 1 on 1 with a Goalkeeper To develop a defensive positioning and posture. Set out a 10x20 yard area. Group in 3 s. 1 ball per group. 1 goal on the end line. Repeat in 3 other areas for a total of 12 players. Game objective: Goalkeeper passes to player 2, who must attempt to dribble the ball past player 1 and score a goal. Player 1 assumes a sideways position and blocks the path to the goal. If the defender wins the ball, he should try to dribble over the end line. Rotate positions. Progressions: Allow the player to shoot as soon as he receives the ball. The player must close down the space to the ball and get into line between the attacker and the goal as quickly as possible. 1. The defender should make a curved run to the ball, coming down the line between the ball and the goal. 2. The defender assumes a sideways position, legs are bent. 3. Can the defender fake to get the ball to force the attacker one way? 4. The defender should always stay between the attacker and the goal, angling him to the corners.

19 Shoot and Rebound To develop striking the moving ball and finishing. Set out a 20x20 yard area. Groups of six. 4 balls per group. Position players as shown n the diagram. Repeat in another area for a total of 12 players. Game objective: Player 1 passes the ball to the server who passes the ball back into the path of player 1. Player 1 shoots low and to the far post. The server turns and runs to the area at the far post to pick up any rebounds or shots wide of the target. Server becomes the goal keeper. Player 1 becomes the server, and the goal keeper fetches for the ball. Goal keeper then goes to back of the line. Repeat the practice and rotate positions. Save=5 points, rebound=3 points, goal=5 points, shot on target=3 points. Progressions: Make player 1 a defender. 1. Concentrate in accuracy. 2. Strike through the middle top-half of the ball. 3. Aim for the far post.

20 3 Goals and in To develop shooting and finishing. Set out a 20x20 yard area. Groups of 4. 1 ball per group. Position players as shown in the diagram. Repeat in 2 other areas for a total of 12 players. Game objective: Players 1, 2, and 3 compete against each other to score goals. The first player to score 3 goals is the winner. The winner then gets to choose who goes into the goal next. 1. Take shots early and keep them low. 2. Follow in for rebounds. 3. Challenge for every ball. 4. Shoot to the corners and away from the goal keeper.

21 Shoot & Save To develop receiving the ball and shooting. Set out a 20x20 yard area. Groups of 4. 2 balls per group. One server stationed on the side of the goal. Repeat in 2 other areas for a total of 12 players. Game objective: The server plays the ball to player 1 who controls the ball in front with his first touch and shoots on goal. The server then plays the ball to player 2 who repeats the practice. Rotate positions. Progressions: 1. Server throws the ball in. 2. Attacker has only 3 touches to score. 1. Knee and body over the ball. 2. Strike the ball with the laces. 3. Keep the ball low and directed to the corners. 4. Follow through at the target.

22 Shoot in 2 s To develop the basic mechanics and techniques of shooting. Set out a 10x20 yard area. Group in pairs. One ball per pair. Place discs in the center of the area approximately 3 yards apart. Repeat in 5 other areas for a total of 12 players. Game objective: Player 1 takes 3 steps back from the ball and shoots the ball across the area to player 2. The goal is to strike the ball between the discs without the ball touching either disc. Player 2 repeats the practice from the other side. Progressions: 1. Progress to 2 touches. 2. Make the goal narrower. 3. Progress to rolling the ball to partner, striking the ball first time. 1. A slightly angled approach to the ball. 2. Place the non kicking foot alongside the ball and 8-10 inches to the side of the ball. 3. Look at the ball and keep your knee over the ball.

23 Terminator To develop turning and running with the ball. Set out a 20x20 yard area. One ball per player except for the lone catcher/terminator. All players must stay within the confines of the area. Game objective: The players are chased by the terminator. Any player, who either a) dribbles outside the box or b) has their ball kicked outside the box by the terminator, becomes a catcher. Play until only one player remains. 1. Keep the ball close to your body. 2. Try to look up and around between touches. 3. Use your body to shield from the defenders. 4. Turn away from danger.

24 Beat the Runner To develop passing with pace, timing and accuracy. Set out a 10x10 yard area. Group in pairs. One ball between the pair. Repeat in 5 other areas for a total of 12 players. Game objective: Player 2 passes the ball across the area to player 1. Player 2 then runs immediately around the cone and back to his starting position. Player 1 must control the ball, then pass it back using the inside of his foot, attempting to pass the ball over the far end line before player 2 gets back in position. A goal is scored if the ball goes over the end line traveling along the ground. Repeat and rotate.\ Progressions: Move the cones in 3 yards. Now the receiving player is allowed to pass it back through the cones first time. 1. Move into line with the ball as early as possible. 2. Select the controlling surface, e.g. right or left foot. 3. Your pass should always start your run. 4. Be in a position ready to pass back first time.

25 World Cup Control To develop receiving the ball. Set out a 10 X 10 yard area. Group in pairs. One ball between the pair. Repeat in 5 other areas for a total of 12 players. Game Objective: Player 1 passes the ball across the area to player 2, who must control the ball with the inside of his foot. Player 2 then passes the ball back across the area. Player1 repeats the practice. The object of the game is to roll the ball over the end line without the opposing player stopping it. To score a goal, the ball must travel below waist height. Each player should pick his favorite national team and represent that country. The first country to score 5 goals, wins the World Cup Progressions: If you pass the ball back first time and score, you get 2 goals. 1. Move into line with the ball as early as possible. 2. Select the controlling surface, e.g., right or left foot

26 Tony Chestnut s Double Pass Masters To develop passing accuracy over short distances. Set out a 10x10 yard area. Group in pairs. One ball per pair. Place a disc in the center of the area and place a ball on top of it. Repeat in 5 other area for a total of 12 players Game Objective: Player 1 passes the ball across to his partner with the object of knocking the target ball of the disc. Player 2 moves into line to control the ball, then dribbles it back to the starting point. Player 2 repeats the practice in the opposite direction. Progressions: 1. Increase passing distances. 2. Have players control the ball and make the pass in two touches. 1. Place the non kicking foot directly alongside the ball, toes pointing at the target. 2. Keep you head over the ball. 3. Strike the ball with the inside of the foot.

27 Soccer Marbles To develop dribbling, shielding and turning. Set out 10x 10 yard area. Groups of three. One ball per player. Two defenders and one attacker are stationed inside the grid. Repeat in three other areas for a total of 12 players. Game Objective: The attacking player must dribble his ball to escape the two defenders. The defending players must try to pass their ball against that of the attacking player. When the attacking player s ball is hit, the players rotate positions. Progressions: 1. Attacking player must dribble the ball, but the defending players can carry the ball then roll it at the attacking player s ball. 2. Attacking player can shield his ball by positioning his body between the defenders and the ball 1. Try to glance up and around between touches. 2. Try to get close to the attacking player before attempting a pass. Attacking players should attempt many turns to change direction.

28 The Bedrock Barbeque To develop turning and running with the ball. Set out a 20x20 yard area. Groups of three. Station one group in each corner of the square. All balls are placed in the middle of the grid. Game Objective: Each player is numbered 1, 2, 3 in each team. Number 1 runs to the middle, turn with the ball and dribble back to the corner. Number 1 tags number 2, who runs to the middle, turns with the ball and dribbles back to the corner. Number 2 relays with number 3. The winning team is the first to have 3 balls in their corner. Story: The brontosaurus burgers are cooking nicely until they run out of coals for the fire. Fred, Barney, Wilma and Betty race to the store to buy a new bag of charcoal. 1. Keep the ball within 2-3 feet between touches as if the ball were Dino on a leash. 2. Try to stop the ball in the corner using the sole of the foot to trap the ball.

29 Simon Says To develop close control and coordination skills. Set out a 20x20 yard area. Each player must find space in the area. 1 ball per player. Game Objective: Players react to the commands of the coach, only when the command is preceded by Simon Says. If the coach says Stop the ball and not Simon Says-Stop the ball, then each player should continue to do the same activity that they were doing before the command. Story: Commands include: turn, stop, elbow on the ball, head on the ball, sit on the ball, dribble with one foot only, speed up and slow down. Are your players able to respond quickly to your instructions?

30 MLS All stars To develop soccer skills and team play. Set out a 30x40 yard area. Play 5vs.5, plus 2 goal keepers. Game Objective: The object of the game is to score a goal in the opposing goal past the goal keeper. When the ball rolls out of bounds, it should be rolled in underhanded by a player. Story: It s the MLS All Star Game and the best are gathered to compete in front of 70,000 screaming fans. 1. Try not to bunch up around the ball. 2. Try to pass to someone in a better position than you. 3. Shoot at the goal whenever you have a chance. 4. Try to get between the ball and your goal when defending. 5. At goal kicks, make players from both teams go through the coach s legs to ensure that the ball enters the field of play.

31 All Hands on Deck To develop keeping close control when running the ball. Set out a 20x20 yard area. Create a 5x5 square in one center of the grid. All players start out inside the larger area with a soccer ball. Game Objective: Players dribble around the area. They must react to the following commands. Scrub the Deck: Move the ball forwards and backwards with the sole of the foot. Walk the Plank: Players run into the shark cage. Hoist the Main Sail: Throw the ball in the air, jump and catch it. Shark Attack: Coach runs into the area to tackle and challenge the dribblers. Story: As a fun exercise, anyone tagged by the coach must go to the shark cage where they do Australian push-ups - lie on your back, hands and feet in the air. Make the practice fun by putting a cone on your foot and pretending to be a wooden legged pirate.

32 Topple Me Coconuts To develop passing accuracy and receiving. Set out a 20x10 yard area. Pair up the players on opposite sides of the grid. Place 6 discs across the middle of the area. Place a soccer ball on each disc, or use cones to make the balls more available. 1 ball per pair. Game Objective: The 6 players play the ball across the area at the same time, attempting to knock the ball off a disc in the center of the area. The player on the opposite side should shuffle across when necessary to receive the ball. Repeat in the opposite direction. Story: How many coconuts can you knock off the stand at the summer fair? 1. Take a 2-3 pace run at the ball. 2. Place the non-kicking foot 8-10 inches to the side of the ball. 3. Strike the ball with the inside of the foot.

33 Dungeons and Dragons To develop change of direction under pressure. Set out a 20x20 yard area. Set out as many gates as possible within the area (two discs, two yards apart). Each player has a ball. Group in pairs. Game Objective: The player must dribble through as many gates as possible in a specified time limit. The player must try to shadow his partner and each time he is able to kick his ball and hits the ball of his partner, the player loses a point. One point per gate. Story: The knights are being chased through the dungeons by fire breathing dragons. 1. Use the inside of the foot to hook the ball to the side when crossing through the gate. 2. Try to cover the ground between the gates as quickly as possible.

34 Crocodiles To develop change of direction and movement with or without the ball. In a 20x20 yard area, have 3 pairs start by holding hands and all other players with 1 ball each. Game Objective: The players dribble around trying to avoid the crocodiles. If a crocodile kicks a player s ball out of the area, the player then links hands with the crocodile. Together, they chase other players. Play until 1 player remains. Story: Kids always remember the adage, Never smile at a crocodile Especially a cranky, hungry one. Progressions: 1. Crocodiles also have a ball. 2. Coach, Al Gator, runs in and kicks ball out of the area. 1. Change directions. 2. Keep the ball close. 3. Look up. Additional Drills That Can be Substituted YMCA Restart Plays Throw-ins 1. Throw-ins occur when the entire ball crosses over the touchlines, also known as the sidelines. If part of the ball is touching the line, the ball is still in play. 2. Both feet must be touching the ground as the ball is thrown. 3. The ball is thrown over the head using both hands. 4. Thrower must stay behind the touchline. 5. Encourage the players to throw the ball slightly ahead of his/her teammate s feet so the teammate can receive the ball on the move. 6. Instructional leagues can either use throw-ins or place the ball on the touchline and kick it back into play.

35 Throw-in Drill 1 With a partner, stand about 5 to 10 yards apart. Create lanes with cones. Take turns practicing the throw-in skill. Encourage players receiving the ball to stop it with their feet before picking it up and throwing it back to his or her partner. Throw-in Drill 2 1. Have players line up behind the touchline on the left side of the field. 2. The first player should throw the ball to the coach. After throwing the ball, the player should step onto the playing field and run in the direction of the goal. The coach should roll the ball to that player for a left foot shot on goal. 3. After that player shoots, he/she should move to the right side of the field to practice the same drill, using the right foot. Corner Kicks 1. A kick is awarded to the attacking team when the defending team kicks the ball out of bounds over their own goal line. A forward usually takes corner kick. 2. The goalkeeper usually stands two-thirds back from the goal post closest to the corner where the ball is being kicked. This allows the goalkeeper to move forward instead of backwards. 3. The backs and forwards should space themselves in front of the goal to protect against the attack. 4. The attacking forwards and backs position themselves to receive the ball and take a shot on goal. Corner Kick Drill Divide the team into two groups. Have one team be on offense and the other on defense. Show the players where they should play and have one of the offensive players kick the ball into play. Encourage the players to move around and not stand in one position. Goal Kicks 1. A goal kick is awarded to the defending team when the attacking team kicks the ball out of bounds over the goal line. The goalkeeper usually takes the goal kick. 2. The kick takes place from the top corner of the goal box on the side it went out of bounds.

36 Instructional Drills For Dribbling 1. Maintain control of the ball. 2. Keep the ball close to your feet. 3. Keep the head up when dribbling. 4. Practice with your left and right foot. 5. Change directions with the ball. 6. Encourage players to practice at home. Dribbling Drill 1: Stop, Go, Fast, Slow, Spin 1. Mark off a square for players to dribble. 2. Each player should have a ball. 3. Players should dribble their ball inside the area. 4. As the players dribble, the coach should call out these instructions: Stop - Players put their foot on top of the ball. Go - Players dribble the ball inside the square. Fast - Players run and dribble. Slow - Players walk and dribble. Spin - Players turn around and go the opposite direction. Dribbling Drill 2: Cone Dribble 1. Place 4 cones in a row. If there are enough cones, set up two rows to allow more time to practice the drill. This will keep players from just standing around. 2. Line up players behind the first cone. 3. Players should take turns dribbling around the cones. 4. If you have two rows of cones, you can have a relay race. Instructional Drills For 5 8 year olds Passing Inside of Foot Pass 1. Have players touch the inside of their right foot where it arches. 2. Raise toes toward the shin to lock the ankle. 3. Bend the knees and make contact with the center of the ball using the arch of your foot. 4. Keep your eyes on the ball and shoulders square to the target. 5. Follow through. Outside of Foot Pass 1. Have players touch the outside of their foot where the ball should make contact. 2. Make sure the toes are turned in and down. 3. The outside of the foot should make contact with the ball. 4. Follow through toward target.

37 Passing Drill 1: With a partner, line up about 5 to 10 yards apart. In one minute, see how many times you can pass the ball back and forth using the inside foot pass. (Count out loud) Passing Drill 2: Have players get into groups of 3 or 4. Have them practice using the outside of the foot to pass the ball. Encourage players to use their right foot first, then switch to the left foot. Place a coach in the middle and instruct the players to keep the ball away from the coach, using passing and receiving skills. Instructional Drills For Receiving Bottom of Foot Stop With toes pointing up, step on top of the ball as it moves toward you. Inside of Foot 1. With the body weight on the support leg, reach for the ball with the inside of the receiving foot. 2. The leg should be turned out and the knee slightly bent. 3. When contact with the ball is made, draw the foot back to slow the speed of the ball. 4. Receiving foot should act as a shock absorber. Outside of Foot 1. When contact with the ball is made, draw the foot back to slow the speed of the ball. 2. Use the outside of the foot to move the ball in a different direction. Receiving Drills: Incorporate the receiving drills with the passing drills to help players learn and develop good ball movement skills.

38 Instructional Drills For Shooting 1. There are two types of shooting kicks: shoestring kick (power kick) and the instep kick (finesse kick). There are two instep kicks; inside and outside of the foot. 2. Aim for the goal posts. The goalkeeper usually stands in the middle of the goal box. Therefore, players should shoot for the posts because the goalkeeper will have to move to get to the ball. 3. The non-shooting foot should be pointing in the direction you want to kick the ball. 4. Concentrate and follow through. Shooting Drill 1 Instruct the players to dribble the ball on the outside of cones and take a shot on goal using the left/right foot. Shooting Drill 2 1. The players should line up behind the cones until the coach passes the ball. 2. Once the coach has passed the ball, the players should take a shot on goal. Shooting Drill 3 1. Have all players line up behind the goal line. Each player should have a ball. 2. When the coach says go, all the players should dribble their ball, as fast as possible, towards the cones on the other side of the field. (Encourage ball control) 3. When the players reach the cones, they should shoot the ball in the goal while in motion. (Encourage accuracy) 4. Once all players have kicked their ball, have them line up and repeat the drill. 5. For more fun, the coach should stand in the middle of the field and act as a defender. 6. Add a goalkeeper to make it even more difficult. Instructional Drills Ball Control Ball Control 1. Instruct players to be careful with these drills. 2. Players should concentrate on how the ball is approaching them to determine which ball control skill to use. 3. At this age, Upward does not recommend teaching heading the ball. 4. Hint: use a beach ball to help with the chest and thigh control. Toe Touches 1. Begin with the left foot on top of the ball and the right foot on the ground. 2. With a quick hop-like motion, switch the left foot to the ground and the right foot to the top of the ball. 3. Do this as quickly as possible repeating the motion 10 times.

39 Chest Control 1. Square shoulders and get behind the approaching ball. 2. Extend arms for balance. Push the shoulders forward to form a hollow spot to receive the ball. 3. Upon contact with the ball, draw the shoulders back quickly to send the ball upward. To put the ball on the ground quickly, allow the chest to absorb the ball. 4. Throw the ball high in the air and allow it to bounce one time before using the chest control drill. Also, the coach can lightly toss the ball and the player allows it to bounce off his/her chest. Thigh Control 1. Get behind and under the descending ball. 2. Extend arms for balance. The receiving leg should be slightly bent. 3. Raise the thigh to receive the ball. The point of contact should be the middle of the thigh. 4. Let your thigh absorb the ball. With a swing-like motion, push the ball down 5. Throw the ball high in the air and allow it to bounce one time before using the thigh control drill. Also, the coach can lightly toss the ball and the player allows it to bounce off his/her thigh. Goalkeeping Skill Basics: 1. A successful goalkeeper maintains a ready stance at all times. This allows for a quick response. 2. Feet should be shoulder-width apart and square to the ball. 3. Knees should be slightly bent. 4. The body s weight should be on the balls of the feet with arms at waist level. 5. Goalkeeper should be one to three yards in front of goal line. This will keep the ball from rolling into the goal if it is fumbled. Ground Balls 1. Stay behind the ball with shoulders and toes square to the ball. 2. When receiving the ball, bend from the waist. Keep fingers pointed down, palms facing the ball, elbows almost together, and the tips of the fingers just slightly apart. 3. Scoop the ball up with the hands and pull it into the chest to protect it. Waist-High Shots 1. With feet and shoulders square to the ball, position feet shoulder-width apart with knees slightly bent. 2. With both arms, scoop up the ball and bring it safely to the chest. Chest and Head-High Shots 1. Form a W with the hands by pointing the fingers up, palms facing forward and touching the thumbs. 2. Absorb the impact of the ball by letting the hands give a little. Pull the ball safely into the chest. Instructional Drills For Goal Keeper Goalkeeping Drill 1 1. Have the players get a partner. 2. The players need to stand 5 to 6 yards apart between two cones. The cones serve as goals. 3. Instruct players to throw and roll the ball to each other practicing the goalkeeping techniques. 4. Instruct players to test their partner s skill without making them dive for the ball.