Junior Programs Guidebook

Transcription

1 Junior Programs Guidebook Second Edition, spring 2016

2 Junior Programs Guidebook Contents 1. The Game 2. Introduction 3. The Club 4. The Teams 5. The Coaches 6. The Training 7. Emotional Control 8. The Player 9. The Parent, pt The Parent, pt The Volunteer Coach 12. Curriculums Overview 13. Ginga Overview & Curriculum Ginga Sessions 19. Rondo Overview & Curriculum Rondo Sessions 25. Pre Academy Overview 26. Pre Academy Curriculum Pre Academy Sessions 42. Structural Shape Development

3 Junior Programs Guidebook The Game THE GAME Soccer crosses economic, social, political, religious, racial and international boundaries. In 1914, during World War I, the Christmas Truce was marked by a soccer game between the English and German soldiers who came out of their trenches to play each other. In 2005, warring factions in the Ivory Coast suspended fighting their civil war so they could all celebrate their country qualifying for the following year s World Cup, a World Cup which, according to FIFA, reached 3.2 billion people, or roughly 46% of the world s population Nelson Mandela once said: Sport has the power to change the world it has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does. It speaks to youth in a language they understand. Sport can create hope where once there was only despair. It is more powerful than government in breaking down racial barriers. There is no greater example of this in the sporting world than soccer. YouTube: Panyee FC 1

4 Junior Programs Guidebook Introduction Carolina Soccer Club offers professional programs, professional curriculums, professional designed sessions, and professional supervised practices for children ages 4 8. Each program 4s, 5s, 6s, and Pre Academy builds upon the previous program, guaranteeing players the ideal environment to progress step-by-step through the increasing demands and intricacies of the game and providing the framework necessary for future success. We believe children, are a long-term investment, not a short term asset. Therefore, we focus on excellence, which is long term, rather than just success, which is short term. In the end, however, it is excellence that leads to success. YouTube: What we Want to Build 2

5 Junior Programs Guidebook The Club MISSION To provide an enjoyable, development-based experience, and family environment, to players, parents and coaches. GUIDING PHILOSOPHIES Respect for Player Development Creating an environment where working hard and improving is what is enjoyable Professionally structured programs Quality instruction from qualified coaches Coaches that are demanding, honest, and caring Promoting player values of selflessness, hard work, and intelligent decision making Respect for Parent Investment Acknowledgement that parents are customers who have paid for a product, and therefore have a right to be respected A willingness to listen when there is a question or concern Honest, thorough, and timely communication Education on what we are doing and why we are doing Setting clear boundaries and expectations Community Care This is club formed by the community, for the community, and as such we firmly believe in a quality over quantity and a quality brings quantity approach. (Nothing against Wal Mart: it s just not us.) 3

6 Junior Programs Guidebook The Teams Fundamentally, soccer became the world s most popular sport for two reasons: people want to play it because it is enjoyable to play, and people want to watch it because it is enjoyable to watch. The game should be enjoyable to play, and it should be enjoyable to watch. If the game fails either one of these benchmarks, then there is a problem. If it fails at both then it is not true soccer. The game should be honored in the way it is played. Players, and supporters, have more fun when their team has possession of the ball, and as there is only one ball on the field a team should emphasize keeping possession. Players, and supporters, also have more fun when their team wins. Winning is easier when you have possession of the ball as scoring and getting scored on are mutually exclusive: in possession you can score but the other team cannot score, and the opposite is also true. Possession of the ball is the most important but not the only aspect to having fun through the game itself, and having fun through winning. In possession a team should look to combine many quick, short passes, interspersed with occasional long passes when appropriate, supported by the creation of multiple passing options. Patience and sensible decision making are essential. We expect our teams to play an attractive, aggressive, and adaptable brand of soccer: Attractive in Possession Aggressive in Transition Adaptable in Defense 4

7 Junior Programs Guidebook The Coaches Our coaches carry out the following functions: Role Model: without character all other roles are invalid. The coach should be a good person. Manager: a coach must be organized and communicate well. Psychologist: a coach needs to be able to read and respond to who needs what, when, and how. Teacher: a coach needs the subject knowledge and the skills to teach that knowledge to others. Leader: a coach needs to have a personality, a philosophy, and a plan, that inspires trust, loyalty and dedication. All coaches have different personalities, but the characteristics all our coaches display are: Demanding o Only accept the best o But do so in an encouraging and supportive way Honest o Only say good job if it is deserved o But say good try, and don t worry, a lot Caring o Care about the game, the team, the player, and the parents o Enthusiastic, encouraging, supportive, and communicating effectively 5

8 Junior Programs Guidebook The Training TRAINING PRINCIPALS Safe and Appropriate Training Area Simple to Complex Sessions Developmentally Appropriate Relevant & Realistic to the Game Clear, Concise and Correct Information Decision Making Opportunities for Players Guided Discovery Minimal lines, lectures, or laps PLAYER DEVELOPMENT AREAS Technical: the How Passing and Receiving (all surfaces, all services, all ranges, 1-touch, and turning) Crossing and Heading 1v1 Defending and Tackling Dribbling and running with the ball Shooting (all surfaces, all services, all ranges, 1-touch, and turning) Goalkeepers: parrying, catching, footwork and distribution Tactical: the When and Why Defensively: pressure, cover, balance, compactness, and patience Offensively: penetration, mobility, support, speed, width, and improvisation Team shape when attacking, when defending, and when in transition between both Set plays (defensive and offensive) Combination play, possession (quick counter or delayed build up), switching the point of attack Goalkeepers: narrowing of angles, play outside the box, and communication Physical: Speed, Strength, and Stamina Ability to complete full, competitive games throughout a full, competitive season without injury and while dominating the opposition. Keys to assist: Full, dynamic warm-ups; Plyometric exercises; Individually tailored strength and conditioning programs; Informed diets; Testing Psychological: Attitudes Players need to pay attention, apply all their effort, and be good team mates: they need to be coachable Confident, but not arrogant: players should respect the opposition, but believe in themselves. Players should always believe that something can be achieved from a game if they work hard enough: no matter what the score line and no matter how little time is remaining 6

9 Junior Programs Guidebook Emotional Control Players should understand that even professionals make mistakes, and that they should not expect to perform perfectly. Players should focus on what they are doing well, and give themselves credit when deserved. Players should do their best not to look backwards and dwell on mistakes, but to focus on the next play or situation and imagine themselves doing well. Players should understand that the biggest problem is reacting negatively to a mistake, because this turns into more mistakes. 7

10 Junior Programs Guidebook The Player Players are coached to develop the following qualities: SELFLESSNESS During a game, players should always be asking themselves: what can I do to help? Offensively, if in possession: Am I making the decision that is most likely to result in success? Offensively if in support: Am I making space, taking space, or providing an angle for a pass? Defensively, if pressuring: Am I delaying, being patient, and forcing the play in the right direction? Defensively if in support: Am in my position, aware of my responsibilities, and communicating? In transition: Am I reacting as quickly as possible? HARD WORK / DETERMINATION It s not the will to win that matters, everyone has that, it is the will to prepare to win that makes the difference (Bobby Knight) Amateurs practice until they get it right, professionals practice until they don t get it wrong. (Unknown) INTELLIGENT DECISION MAKING Every goal conceded is from a mistake, and every goal scored is from taking advantage of a mistake. Winning soccer games is a matter of making the least mistakes. To make the least amount of mistakes means to remain concentrated, disciplined, and try to make the most sensible decisions at all times. The most sensible decision is the one which has the greatest chance of success. 8

11 Junior Programs Guidebook The Parent, pt. 1 The parent of a young soccer player is by far the most important and influential person in that player s life. A coach will see a player for an average of 2-4 hours a week. Maybe 8-10 hours at the older, elite levels. A parent will see them for up to 168. The parent has a massive role in the soccer development of a child. Here is how a parent best can support their child: 1. Communication before the Game or Practice Do your best. (Not Be the best.) Have Fun. 2. At the Game or Practice Watch! (Try to avoid reading or texting) Officially assist in coaching 3. Communication after the Game or Practice I love watching you play. I am proud of you. 4. At Home Watch soccer with your child (pick a specific professional team and follow them) Play soccer with your child Encourage your child to practice by themselves Obtain a coaching license 5. Always Keep in Mind Soccer is also a long-term developmental sport. The peak age for a soccer player is around 25. This is why we stress to parents to relax, be patient, and not be concerned with how many goals their child scores at U8, how many games their child s team wins at U10, and what team their child is placed on at U14. Article: Time, Patience, and Effort 9

12 Junior Programs Guidebook The Parent, pt. 2 Things Parents Need to Avoid: 1. Not respecting the physical boundaries at practices and games. 2. Coaching their child from the sidelines. a. The soccer field is a child s playground, and therefore a child wants to be left alone to have fun. YouTube: How a Child Views the Game b. When playing soccer, a child is concentrating, especially at the younger ages. No one yells in a golfer s backswing or a tennis player s serve. c. Hearing more than one voice giving instruction is too much for a player to take on board. And, If the information is being transmitted is exactly the same as that coming from the coach, the information is unnecessary. The worst case though. Is when the information being transmitted is actually incorrect d. Think about the coach! How would school teacher would react if a parent was cheering during class, or a piano teacher if a parent was yelling during a lesson? 3. Not being informed. For example, one the most frequently asked questions is Why isn t my child s coach yelling and screaming from the sideline? Do they not care? (See below) YouTube: Soccer Mom Gives Coach Advice 4. Not representing themselves, their child, or the club, in the best possible light. YouTube: Relax, it's Just a Game 10

13 Junior Programs Guidebook The Volunteer Coach As a club we want parents to be directly involved with their child s soccer development. In fact, we need you! All junior programs encourage parents to assist in coaching their children. It does not matter if you have no soccer experience. Think of coaching child the same as if you were substitute teaching: all you need to do is follow the lesson plan, which is always provided, and make sure the kids stay on task. That s it. You will always operate under the supervision of the program director, so there will also always be someone close by to help. A volunteer will have a professionally written session to work from, and a professionally trained person to help. You should not worry! All coaches must pass a background check, and we heavily encourage all coaches to complete the Youth I, Youth II, or E License in a timely manner. (You can get your F License in a few hours online!) Coaching Guidelines 1. Be on time, appropriately dressed (including a watch), prepared, and not eating or drinking 2. Give clear demonstrations and instructions 3. The coaching points should be interjected in the session at the right times (Frequently, but not so much it disrupts the session) 4. The coaching points should be interjected correctly (Fast and clear) 5. If the session is stopped, it should be restarted in the correct way 6. The interaction with the players should be appropriate (Friendly, but not their friend; correct language for age group; disciplined, but not harsh) 7. The coach s positioning relative to the players should be correct (Correct eye level, sunglasses and/or hat off if addressing an individual; players facing away from sun and/or distractions) 8. Know all the player s names 9. Be confident 10. Be happy, enthusiastic, positive, and encouraging 11

14 Junior Programs Guidebook Curriculums Overview Technical training is about how to do something: passing, dribbling, shooting, heading, or tackling. These are specific elements that involve an individual and how he or she interacts directly with the ball. Technical training is extremely important, especially at a young age. Young players, especially beginners, need correct technical training. Without correct and continuous technical training players pick up bad habits extremely quickly, and these bad habits can be extremely hard to break. It is therefore essential to always have qualified coaches teaching players technique. For the last ten years the prevailing sentiment in youth soccer has been that players below the age of 13 should only be taught technique and that tactical training is either unnecessary or even detrimental. At Carolina Soccer Club we believe that attitude to be fundamentally flawed. Tactical training is about why you would do something: when to pressure, when to drop (cover), where an opponent should be guided, what particular pass or run should be made, where players should be positioning themselves, when a player should shoot, when a player should dribble, what particular shape a team should take when attacking, when defending, and when in transition between both situations. These elements involve how an individual thinks, adapts, and decides on what to do by knowing what choices should be made in any given situation. It is critical that young players are given tactical training. Obviously tactical training (along with the technical training,) is adapted to suit children, however, to state out-right no tactical training below the age of 13, is essentially saying before the age of 13 players should not think. That is not just incorrect, but bizarre. We teach technical and tactical skills at a young age. We want to develop players who are technically proficient and who can also think. 12

15 Junior Programs Guidebook Ginga Program: 5 Year Olds Ginga is a Brazilian term used to describe natural rhythm, swagger, and that certain special something in soccer. Having won more World Cups than anyone else (5), Brazil have established themselves as the very top of the soccer elite. It is not just success that has defined Brazil as the super power of world soccer though, it is Ginga. It is something organic to Brazilians, and it begins by establishing soccer as a something inherently enjoyable, and a way of life, in their youngest players. The goal of the Ginga Program is to establish soccer as something inherently enjoyable and as a way of life to our young players. To see if, over time, we can get some Ginga going on! Neymar: Ginga legend We play 3v3 at this age to ensure that players get as many touches on the ball as possible. All games and practices are led and supervised by a professional, experienced, and licensed coach, operating from a professional and documented curriculum. The coach is assisted by fully-informed parent-volunteers. There is a set schedule but no set teams for this age group. Set teams are unnecessary and detrimental to development at this age. This is a co-ed program. Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 DRIBBLING DRIBBLING PASSING PASSING Running w/ Ball Everyone's It Everyone's It Foxes & Farmers Foxes & Farmers Everyone's It Paint the Field Paint the Field Topple the Coconut Topple the Coconut Bulldog Gate Game Gate Game Temple of Doom Temple of Doom Sharks & Minnows 2v2 / 3v3 2v2 / 3v3 2v2 / 3v3 2v2 / 3v3 2v2 / 3v3 Week 6 Week 7 Week 8 Week 9 Week 10 Running w/ Ball SHOOTING SHOOTING TURNING TURNING Everyone's It Foxes & Farmers Foxes & Farmers Everyone's It Everyone's It Bulldog Steal the Bacon Steal the Bacon Magnets Magnets Sharks & Minnows Steal the Bacon + Steal the Bacon + Gate Keepers Gate Keepers 2v2 / 3v3 2v2 / 3v3 2v2 / 3v3 2v2 / 3v3 2v2 / 3v3 13

16 Group Ginga Age 5 Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up Everyone s It 5min Session 1&2 / Main Activity Paint the Field 12min Time 1hr 3. Progression Gates 12min 4. Final 3v3 Game 25min All players are it in a big game of tag. Anyone can tag anyone. When a player is tagged once, he or she puts one arm behind their back and continues to play the game. When player is tagged for the second time, he or she puts second arm behind their back and goes to the coach to be set free. Play then continues. Progress to having one player who cannot get tagged by others. Progress to players keeping score how many times they have to visit the coach. Declare a winner at the end. The ball is the player s paint brush ; players dribble around area painting shapes with their ball Progress to giving players shapes to draw Progress to walking around and trying to tag players on their back Look up so you do not run straight into someone Always look behind you check your shoulder! to make sure you do not get tagged from behind Accelerate from pressure (person trying to tag you) into space Look up so you do not run straight into someone Keep the ball close Use inside and outside of both feet to paint properly Check your shoulder so the coach does not tag you Each player has a ball Players try to dribble through as many gates as possible in a designated time Progress to coach standing in-between gates (no more than 5 seconds per gate). When this happens players must turn around and find another gate to go through that coach is not in Look up so you do not run into anyone else Keep the ball close Change directions quickly Use both feet to dribble Play 3v3 game Use either Pugg goals, or 2 cones on the ground as goals Keep the ball close Do not run into anyone else Change directions quick Use both feet to dribble Pass team mates if possible Notes: 14

17 Group Ginga Age 5 Theme Passing 1. Warm Up Foxes & Farmers 5min Session 3&4 / Main Activity Topple the Coconut 12min Time 1hr 3. Progression Temple of Doom 12min 4. Final 3v3 Game 25min Players become foxes by tucking a pinnie into the back of their shorts to make a tail Coach, or one player, starts as the farmer who tries to catch the foxes by pulling out their tails When a fox has their tail pulled out he or she becomes a farmer and tries to catch foxes The winner is the last fox left the last player with a tail still in Look up so you do not run straight into someone Always look behind you check your shoulder! to make sure you do not get your tail pulled out Accelerate from pressure (person trying to grab your tail) into space Keep tail away from farmer by turning Introduce the concept of turning and shielding Set up players in pairs, approximately 8 yards apart and facing one another One ball should be at one of the player s feet, another ball should be on top on a cone halfway in between the 2 players Players take turns trying to pass the free ball to knock the other ball off the cone Players keep track of who does this most times Players should take one step forward to strike ball Stepping forward and striking the ball should be done in one movement Standing foot should be next to the ball, with toe pointing towards target Players should use the inside of their kicking foot to strike the ball After striking the ball the kicking leg should follow through Hips should be pointing towards target One ball between 2 players Coach starts at one end of the area and runs to the other end, while players try to pass the ball and strike the coach (below the knee) Players collect balls after passing and get ready for next run by the coach As above, in addition: Time pass to hit moving target Play 3v3 game Use either Pugg goals, or 2 cones on the ground as goals Keep the ball close Do not run into anyone else Change directions quick Use both feet to dribble Pass team mates if possible Make sure shots are on target using techniques learnt in practice Notes: 15

18 Group Ginga Age 5 Theme Running with the Ball 1. Warm Up Everyone s It 5min Session 5&6 / Main Activity Bulldog 12min Time 1hr 3. Progression Sharks & Minnows 12min 4. Final 3v3 Game 25min All players are it in a big game of tag. Anyone can tag anyone. When a player is tagged once, he or she puts one arm behind their back and continues to play the game. When player is tagged for the second time, he or she puts second arm behind their back and goes to the coach to be set free. Play then continues. Progress to having one player who cannot get tagged by others. Progress to players keeping score how many times they have to visit the coach. Declare a winner at the end. The field is the yard. Players try to make it from one end of the yard to the other without getting caught by the bulldog (the coach) When players get caught they become a bulldog too. The winner is the last remaining player. The winner gets to be the bulldog at the start of the next game Look up so you do not run straight into someone Always look behind you check your shoulder! to make sure you do not get tagged from behind Accelerate from pressure (person trying to tag you) into space Do not run into anyone else (Look up!) Change directions quickly Move at speed Each player has a ball Players are minnows, the field is the ocean, the coach is the Shark Players must make it with their ball from one end to the other without being caught by the Shark When players are caught have their ball kicked away they are out and must sit on their ball outside the area Last player remaining is the winner: that player becomes the first Shark next time Progress to when players get out they automatically become sharks (no one sits out multiple sharks at one time) Do not run into anyone else (Look up!) Change directions quickly Use both feet to dribble Keep the ball close but not too close! Move at speed Play 3v3 game Use either Pugg goals, or 2 cones on the ground as goals Keep the ball close Do not run into anyone else Change directions quick Use both feet to dribble Pass team mates if possible Make sure shots are on target using techniques learnt in practice 16

19 Group Ginga Age 5 Theme Shooting 1. Warm Up Foxes & Farmers 5min Session 7&8 / Main Activity Steal the Bacon 12min Time 1hr 3. Progression Steal the Bacon 12min 4. Final 3v3 Game 25min Players become foxes by tucking a pinnie into the back of their shorts to make a tail Coach, or one player, starts as the farmer who tries to catch the foxes by pulling out their tails When a fox has their tail pulled out he or she becomes a farmer and tries to catch foxes The winner is the last fox left the last player with a tail still in Look up so you do not run straight into someone Always look behind you check your shoulder! to make sure you do not get your tail pulled out Accelerate from pressure (person trying to grab your tail) into space Keep tail away from farmer by turning Introduce the concept of turning and shielding Players are divided into two teams Players race up and around area, through cone gates, to get to a ball The first player to score in the goal gets 2 pts for his or her team, the second player to score gets 1 pt. missing the goal = no pts Progress to using only one ball so players are playing 1v1 Try to pass the ball into the goal Standing foot should be next to the ball with toes pointed towards the goal Strike the middle of the ball Strike through the ball Hips need to pointed in the direction of the goal If using laces then make sure toe is pointed down and does not come into contact with the ball Progress to using only 1 ball so players are playing 1v1 As above Progress to using a goal keeper (widen goal) Play 3v3 game Use either Pugg goals, or 2 cones on the ground as goals Keep the ball close Do not run into anyone else Change directions quick Use both feet to dribble Pass team mates if possible Make sure shots are on target using techniques learnt in practice 17

20 Group Ginga Age 5 Theme Turning 1. Warm Up Everyone s It 5min Session 9&10 / Main Activity Magnets 12min Time 1hr 3. Progression Gate Keepers 12min 4. Final 3v3 Game 25min All players are it in a big game of tag. Anyone can tag anyone. When a player is tagged once, he or she puts one arm behind their back and continues to play the game. When player is tagged for the second time, he or she puts second arm behind their back and goes to the coach to be set free. Play then continues. Progress to having one player who cannot get tagged by others. Progress to players keeping score how many times they have to visit the coach. Declare a winner at the end. Each players has a ball Players pretend that their balls are magnets that are initially attracted to one another, but when they get too close, they repel Progress to coach walking around trying to tag players on their backs Look up so you do not run straight into someone Always look behind you check your shoulder! to make sure you do not get tagged from behind Accelerate from pressure (person trying to tag you) into space Look up so you do not run straight into someone Keep the ball close When meeting another magnet try and turn away quickly Use drag back turns When using drag backs put foot on top of the ball and pull it backwards Check your shoulder so the coach does not tag you Half the players have a ball, the other half are gate keepers Players with the balls try to dribble through as many gates as possible in a designated time When players come across a gate keeper he or she must turn around and find another gate to go through Gate keepers move between different gates trying to stop dribbles Progress to coach walking around trying to tag players on their backs Look up so you do not run into anyone else Keep the ball close Change directions quickly Use both feet to dribble Check your shoulder so the coach does not tag you Play 3v3 game Use either Pugg goals, or 2 cones on the ground as goals Keep the ball close Do not run into anyone else Change directions quick Use both feet to dribble Pass team mates if possible 18

21 Junior Programs Guidebook Rondo Program: 6 Year Olds Rondo is a Spanish term used to describe training exercises and ingame sequences of play defined by short, quick, accurate passing combinations between multiple players. In addition to passing, essential to a rondo s success is for players to constantly create good angles of support for one another. The term became popular following the massive success of the Spanish national team, who became the first team in history to win the three major international tournaments in row: European Cup (2008), World Cup (2010), and European Cup (2012). The goal of the Rondo Program is to teach players to value possession of the ball, and to do so by being unselfish and bringing team-mates into the game through unselfish play. To ensure this is achievable we focus on correct passing and receiving technique, in addition to good support-play movement. The cornerstone of this program, and to any rondo itself, is the classic 3v1 training exercise. Iniesta: Rondo legend We play 4v4 at this age to provide the framework for players to fully exploit height, width, and depth of positions during a game. All games and practices are led and supervised by a professional, experienced, and licensed coach, operating from a professional and documented curriculum. The coach is assisted by fully-informed parent-volunteers. There is a set schedule but no set teams for this age group. Set teams are unnecessary and detrimental to development at this age. This is a co-ed program. Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 DRIBBLING DRIBBLING PASSING PASSING Running w/ Ball Foxes & Farmers Foxes & Farmers Everyone's It Everyone's It Foxes & Farmers Red Light, Green Light Red Light, Green Light Boxes Boxes The Chase 3v1 (modified) 3v1 (modified) 3v1 (modified) 3v1 (modified) 3v1 (modified) 3v3 / 4v4 3v3 / 4v4 3v3 / 4v4 3v3 / 4v4 3v3 / 4v4 Week 6 Week 7 Week 8 Week 9 Week 10 Running w/ Ball SHOOTING SHOOTING TURNING TURNING Foxes & Farmers Everyone's It Everyone's It Foxes & Farmers Foxes & Farmers The Chase Run Around Run Around Knock Out Knock Out 3v1 (modified) 3v1 (modified) 3v1 (modified) 3v1 (modified) 3v1 (modified) 3v3 / 4v4 3v3 / 4v4 3v3 / 4v4 3v3 / 4v4 3v3 / 4v4 19

22 Group Rondo Age 6 Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up Foxes & Farmers 5min Session 1&2 / Main Activity Red Light, Green Light 12min Time 1hr 3. Progression 3v1: Modified 12min 4. Final 4v4 Game 25min Players become foxes by tucking a pinnie into the back of their shorts to make a tail Coach, or one player, starts as the farmer who tries to catch the foxes by pulling out their tails When a fox has their tail pulled out he or she becomes a farmer and tries to catch foxes The winner is the last fox left the last player with a tail still in Look up so you do not run straight into someone Always look behind you check your shoulder! to make sure you do not get your tail pulled out Accelerate from pressure (person trying to grab your tail) into space Keep tail away from farmer by turning Introduce the concept of turning and shielding 1 ball per player Players move around the area, listening to coach s command: Red = Stop foot on top of ball Green = Go Yellow = toe-taps Park = sit on ball Start Engine = box ball Turn Left/Right = Inside of foot turn Swerve Left/Right Outside of foot turn Highway = go fast Dead End = drag back Bridge is Out = ball between legs & jump Look up so you do not run straight into someone Keep the ball close Check your shoulder so the coach does not tag you Coach walk around trying to tag players on their back 3v1 keep away 3 players try to keep the ball away from one When wins the ball the player who made the mistake to give it away becomes the The needs to be WALKING or HOPPING ON ONE LEG. Or, establish a smaller grid inside the main grid that the cannot leave. Coach can walk around trying to tag players on their back Play 4v4 game Use either Pugg goals, or 2 cones on the ground as goals Only take 2-touches Draw the in before passing Execute correct passing technique (see passing session for details) Make the pass that has the highest chance of success Off the Ball ( support ): Always move to good support position a position where team mate with the ball can use you as an option Always ask what can I do to help? Keep the ball close Do not run into anyone else Change directions quick Use both feet to dribble Pass team mates if possible 20

23 Group Rondo Age 6 Theme Passing 1. Warm Up Everyone s It 5min Session 3&4 / Main Activity Boxes 12min Time 1hr 3. Progression 3v1: Modified 12min 4. Final 4v4 Game 25min All players are it in a big game of tag. Anyone can tag anyone. When a player is tagged once, he or she puts one arm behind their back and continues to play the game. When player is tagged for the second time, he or she puts second arm behind their back and goes to the coach to be set free. Play then continues. Progress to having one player who cannot get tagged by others. Progress to players keeping score how many times they have to visit the coach. Declare a winner at the end. Look up so you do not run straight into someone Always look behind you check your shoulder! to make sure you do not get tagged from behind Accelerate from pressure (person trying to tag you) into space Players pass the ball back and forth to one another using correct technique : Players have two touches inside their grid to control the ball and then pass it back (1 touch to control, 1 touch to pass) Ball must be played into partner s area on the ground. Players score points by their partner making a mistake. Keep track of points and play game for 5 minutes or until set # of points. Players pass the ball back and forth to one another using correct technique: Players have two touches inside their grid to control the ball and then pass it back (1 touch to control, 1 touch to pass) Ball must be played into partner s area on the ground. Players score points by their partner making a mistake. Keep track of points and play game for 5 minutes or until set # of points. 3v1 keep away 3 players try to keep the ball away from one When wins the ball the player who made the mistake to give it away becomes the The needs to be WALKING or HOPPING ON ONE LEG. Or, establish a smaller grid inside the main grid that the cannot leave. Coach can walk around trying to tag players on their back Play 4v4 game Use either Pugg goals, or 2 cones on the ground as goals Only take 2-touches Draw the in before passing Execute correct passing technique (see passing session for details) Make the pass that has the highest chance of success Off the Ball ( support ): Always move to good support position a position where team mate with the ball can use you as an option Always ask what can I do to help? Keep the ball close Do not run into anyone else Change directions quick Use both feet to dribble Pass team mates if possible 21

24 Group Rondo Age 6 Theme Running with the Ball 1. Warm Up Foxes & Farmers 5min Session 5& 6 / Main Activity The Chase 12min Time 1hr 3. Progression 3v1: Modified 12min 4. Final 4v4 Game 25min Players become foxes by tucking a pinnie into the back of their shorts to make a tail Coach, or one player, starts as the farmer who tries to catch the foxes by pulling out their tails When a fox has their tail pulled out he or she becomes a farmer and tries to catch foxes The winner is the last fox left the last player with a tail still in Look up so you do not run straight into someone Always look behind you check your shoulder! to make sure you do not get your tail pulled out Accelerate from pressure (person trying to grab your tail) into space Keep tail away from farmer by turning Introduce the concept of turning and shielding Player with ball runs in a straight line, and plays ball through gate to player at the front of opposite line. Player then joins the back of that line Player receiving the ball dribbles it in the opposite direction and plays it to the person at front of the waiting line. Pattern continues Progress to second player in line waiting for first players second touch on the ball and then trying to chase them down and touch their back before they pass they ball. Keep ball close and under control, but far enough in front to reach top speed. Look for two touches between picking up and dropping off ball. Dribble with laces. 3v1 keep away 3 players try to keep the ball away from one When wins the ball the player who made the mistake to give it away becomes the The needs to be WALKING or HOPPING ON ONE LEG. Or, establish a smaller grid inside the main grid that the cannot leave. Coach can walk around trying to tag players on their back Play 4v4 game Use either Pugg goals, or 2 cones on the ground as goals Only take 2-touches Draw the in before passing Execute correct passing technique (see passing session for details) Make the pass that has the highest chance of success Off the Ball ( support ): Always move to good support position a position where team mate with the ball can use you as an option Always ask what can I do to help? Keep the ball close Do not run into anyone else Change directions quick Use both feet to dribble Pass team mates if possible 22

25 Group Rondo Age 6 Theme Shooting 1. Warm Up Everyone s It 5min Session 7&8 / Main Activity Run Around 12min Time 1hr 3. Progression 3v1: Modified 12min 4. Final 4v4 Game 25min All players are it in a big game of tag. Anyone can tag anyone. When a player is tagged once, he or she puts one arm behind their back and continues to play the game. When player is tagged for the second time, he or she puts second arm behind their back and goes to the coach to be set free. Play then continues. Progress to having one player who cannot get tagged by others. Progress to players keeping score how many times they have to visit the coach. Declare a winner at the end. Look up so you do not run straight into someone Always look behind you check your shoulder! to make sure you do not get tagged from behind Accelerate from pressure (person trying to tag you) into space Divide players into two teams. When coach says go player on one team races from start position around the back of the coach, the coach plays a short pass in front of the player for the player to stroke on goal. At the same time, player on the other team races from the start around the back of the goal, and then becomes the goal keeper and tries to save the shot. Switch team roles after a certain time. Keep track of goals per team. Try to pass the ball into the goal Standing foot should be next to the ball with toes pointed towards the goal Strike the middle of the ball Strike through the ball Hips need to pointed in the direction of the goal If using laces then make sure toe is pointed down and does not come into contact with the ball 3v1 keep away 3 players try to keep the ball away from one When wins the ball the player who made the mistake to give it away becomes the The needs to be WALKING or HOPPING ON ONE LEG. Or, establish a smaller grid inside the main grid that the cannot leave. Coach can walk around trying to tag players on their back Play 4v4 game Use either Pugg goals, or 2 cones on the ground as goals Only take 2-touches Draw the in before passing Execute correct passing technique (see passing session for details) Make the pass that has the highest chance of success Off the Ball ( support ): Always move to good support position a position where team mate with the ball can use you as an option Always ask what can I do to help? Keep the ball close Do not run into anyone else Change directions quick Use both feet to dribble Pass team mates if possible 23

26 Group Rondo Age 6 Theme Turning 1. Warm Up Foxes & Farmers 5min Session 9&10 / Main Activity Knock Out 12min Time 1hr 3. Progression 3v1: Modified 12min 4. Final 4v4 Game 25min Players become foxes by tucking a pinnie into the back of their shorts to make a tail Coach, or one player, starts as the farmer who tries to catch the foxes by pulling out their tails When a fox has their tail pulled out he or she becomes a farmer and tries to catch foxes The winner is the last fox left the last player with a tail still in Look up so you do not run straight into someone Always look behind you check your shoulder! to make sure you do not get your tail pulled out Accelerate from pressure (person trying to grab your tail) into space Keep tail away from farmer by turning Introduce the concept of turning and shielding Each player has a ball Players dribble around the area trying to kick other player s balls out of the area while keeping their own from being kicked out When a player gets knocked out he or she must juggle for 30 seconds before coming back in. Coach walk around trying to tag players on their back Look up so you do not run straight into someone Keep the ball close Use both feet to dribble Shield the ball when necessary Check your shoulder so the coach does not tag you 3v1 keep away 3 players try to keep the ball away from one When wins the ball the player who made the mistake to give it away becomes the The needs to be WALKING or HOPPING ON ONE LEG. Or, establish a smaller grid inside the main grid that the cannot leave. Coach can walk around trying to tag players on their back Play 4v4 game Use either Pugg goals, or 2 cones on the ground as goals Only take 2-touches Draw the in before passing Execute correct passing technique (see passing session for details) Make the pass that has the highest chance of success Off the Ball ( support ): Always move to good support position a position where team mate with the ball can use you as an option Always ask what can I do to help? Keep the ball close Do not run into anyone else Change directions quick Use both feet to dribble Pass team mates if possible 24

27 Junior Programs Guidebook Pre Academy: 7-8 Year Olds Overview The concept of the U7 U8 Pre Academy Program is a simple one: prepare players to move into the Academy with as easy a transition as possible. The Pre Academy Program is the last in which players play primarily in-house games, and as such the greatest care needs to be taken to ensure there is no shock factor when players move to Academy and begin playing outside organizations. We play 5v5 at this age in order to get players used to playing with the same amount of outfield players as they will do in the Academy program. There are still no goalkeepers at this age to ensure that all players including future fulltime goalkeepers! can use their feet effectively. All games and practices are led and supervised by a professional, experienced, and licensed coach, operating from a professional and documented curriculum. The coach is assisted by fully-informed parent-volunteers. There is a set schedule but no set teams for this age group. Set teams are unnecessary and detrimental to development at this age. As the season progresses, however, it is highly likely that players will start to be pooled together with those of similar abilities. We attempt to make this a single-sex program, however, if the number of participants dictates otherwise this can potentially be coed. 25

28 Junior Programs Guidebook Pre Academy: 7-8 Year Olds Curriculum TECHNICAL Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 PASSING & RECEIVING PASSING & RECEIVING PASSING DRIBBLING GOALKEEPING Balance / Ball Manip Balance / Ball Manip Balance / Ball Manip Balance / Ball Manip Balance / Ball Manip Xavi & Iniesta Xavi & Iniesta Saints Pass & Move Cross the River Basics 3v1 3v1 3v1 3v1 3v1 4v4 / 5v5 4v4 / 5v5 4v4 / 5v5 4v4 / 5v5 4v4 / 5v5 TACTICAL Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 SHAPE SHAPE SET PLAYS SUPPORT SUPPORT Juggling Juggling Juggling Juggling Juggling Handball Handball Game DFB DFB 6v6 / 7v7 6v6 / 7v7 6v6 / 7v7 6v6 / 7v7 6v6 / 7v7 TECHNICAL Week 6 Week 7 Week 8 Week 9 Week 10 SHOOTING SHOOTING TURNING 1v1 DEFENDING Running w/ Ball Balance / Ball Manip Balance / Ball Manip Balance / Ball Manip Balance / Ball Manip Balance / Ball Manip MAINZE MAINZE Ajax Circle Press, Delay, Win Drop & Collect 3v1 3v1 3v1 3v1 3v1 4v4 / 5v5 4v4 / 5v5 4v4 / 5v5 4v4 / 5v5 4v4 / 5v5 TACTICAL Week 6 Week 7 Week 8 Week 9 Week 10 COMBO PLAY COMBO PLAY Switching Pt. of Attack POSSESSION TRANSITION Juggling Juggling Juggling Juggling Juggling MAINZE MAINZE 4 Goal Game Enemies Flying Changes 6v6 / 7v7 6v6 / 7v7 6v6 / 7v7 6v6 / 7v7 6v6 / 7v7 26

29 Group Pre Academy Age 7-8 Theme Passing & Receiving 1. Warm Up Ball Manipulation / Balance 5min Session 1&2 / 10 (Technical) 2. Main Activity Xavi & Iniesta Techniques 20min Time 1hr 3. Progression 3v1 15min 4. Final 4v4 / 5v5 Game 15min Players use various ball control and manipulation techniques: Move the ball around one foot with the other foot standing foot cannot leave the ground. Drag back ball with sole and tap behind leg. As above, with drag over of the ball with outside foot at the end. Drag back with one foot, take away with other. Outside of foot to inside of foot (little toe to bog toe). Inside of foot to outside of foot (big toe to little toe). Outside Cruyff Take off Player practice 4 ways of passing and receiving the ball: 1. Receive with inside, ( open up ) pass with the inside of the receiving foot. 2. Receive with inside (go across body ) pass back with inside of opposite foot 3. Receive with inside of foot, go across body, pass back with outside of the same (receiving) foot. 4. Receive with outside of foot, play back with indie of the same (receiving foot) 1. Drop hip on reception for angled touch, tap in front, step and pass. (Pattern: drop, touch, step, pass) 2. Chop or push across body 3. Make sure to hit the middle of the ball and make a flick motion at the end of the pass. 4. Use foot the ball is not coming towards; angle hips at reception for angles touch. 3v1 keep away 3 players try to keep the ball away from one When wins the ball the player who made the mistake to give it away becomes the (Start with passive of needed) Coach can walk around trying to tag players on their back Play 5v5 game Use either small goals or cones as goals Only take 2-touches Draw the in before passing Execute correct passing technique (see passing session for details) Make the pass that has the highest chance of success Off the Ball ( support ): Always move to good support position a position where team mate with the ball can use you as an option Always ask what can I do to help? Promote player values of: hard work, intelligent decision making (i.e. decisions that result in the team keeping possession), and selflessness what is best for the team. Use 2 touches Make accurate and correctly weighted passes Move off the ball to create good support angles 27

30 Group Pre Academy Age 7-8 Theme Passing 1. Warm Up Ball Manipulation / Balance 5min Session 3 / 10 (Technical) 2. Main Activity Saints Pass & Move 20min Time 1hr 3. Progression 3v1 15min 4. Final 4v4 / 5v5 Game 15min Players use various ball control and manipulation techniques: Move the ball around one foot with the other foot standing foot cannot leave the ground. Drag back ball with sole and tap behind leg. As above, with drag over of the ball with outside foot at the end. Drag back with one foot, take away with other. Outside of foot to inside of foot (little toe to bog toe). Inside of foot to outside of foot (big toe to little toe). Outside Cruyff Take off Player (X1) has the ball, player opposite the player with the ball (X2) pressures. Player with the ball passes to his or her left, and then moves to their right, joining the back of that line. Player pressuring the ball continues their run and goes to the back of the line they were pressuring. Pattern repeats: play left, move right, player opposite pressures. 2-touches; Make sure to cushion the ball on first touch and have it land in front of body; Step into pass and play with one motion Close down the player quickly, slow down, stay side-on and on toes Progress to players playing either left or right but always moving in the opposite direction to their pass. 3v1 keep away 3 players try to keep the ball away from one When wins the ball the player who made the mistake to give it away becomes the (Start with passive of needed) Coach can walk around trying to tag players on their back Play 5v5 game Use either small goals or cones as goals Only take 2-touches Draw the in before passing Execute correct passing technique (see passing session for details) Make the pass that has the highest chance of success Off the Ball ( support ): Always move to good support position a position where team mate with the ball can use you as an option Always ask what can I do to help? Promote player values of: hard work, intelligent decision making (i.e. decisions that result in the team keeping possession), and selflessness what is best for the team. Use 2 touches Make accurate and correctly weighted passes Move off the ball to create good support angles 28

31 Group Pre Academy Age 7-8 Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up Ball Manipulation / Balance 5min Session 4 / 10 (Technical) 2. Main Activity Saints Cross the River 20min Time 1hr 3. Progression 3v1 15min 4. Final 4v4 / 5v5 Game 15min Players use various ball control and manipulation techniques: Move the ball around one foot with the other foot standing foot cannot leave the ground. Drag back ball with sole and tap behind leg. As above, with drag over of the ball with outside foot at the end. Drag back with one foot, take away with other. Outside of foot to inside of foot (little toe to bog toe). Inside of foot to outside of foot (big toe to little toe). Outside Cruyff Take off Players try to cross the river (the middle section of the field,) as many times possible within 1 minute. Players work in pairs, each pair has a turn at defending. Players in the middle defending cannot leave the middle section. Keep the ball close and under control Have confidence Attack at speed Try a move 3v1 keep away 3 players try to keep the ball away from one When wins the ball the player who made the mistake to give it away becomes the (Start with passive of needed) Coach can walk around trying to tag players on their back Play 5v5 game Use either small goals or cones as goals Only take 2-touches Draw the in before passing Execute correct passing technique (see passing session for details) Make the pass that has the highest chance of success Off the Ball ( support ): Always move to good support position a position where team mate with the ball can use you as an option Always ask what can I do to help? Promote player values of: hard work, intelligent decision making (i.e. decisions that result in the team keeping possession), and selflessness what is best for the team. Use 2 touches Make accurate and correctly weighted passes Move off the ball to create good support angles 29

32 Group Pre Academy Age 7-8 Theme Goal Keeping 1. Warm Up Ball Control & Manipulation 5min Session 5 / 10 (Technical) 2. Main Activity Handling 10min Time 1hr 3. Progression 1v1 games 20min 4. Final 6v6 Game w/ Goal Keepers 15min Players use various ball control and manipulation techniques: Move the ball around one foot with the other foot standing foot cannot leave the ground. Drag back ball with sole and tap behind leg. As above, with drag over of the ball with outside foot at the end. Drag back with one foot, take away with other. Outside of foot to inside of foot (little toe to bog toe). Inside of foot to outside of foot (big toe to little toe). Outside Cruyff Take off A. Players individually with a ball i. Throw ball to oneself while moving around ii. Bounce ball to oneself while moving around B. Players with partners Throwing and bouncing ball to one another with variety or services while moving around Get both hands behind ball, with thumbs touching; bring ball into body after catching Get body behind the ball by moving feet Goalkeepers play 1v1 game Goal keepers take turns try to score by throwing the ball past the other goal keeper without crossing the center line. Goal keepers aim to score on whatever side the player behind the goal is standing on. Goal keepers behind the goal switch with ones in the goals after 10 throws each Throw ball using throw-in technique or roll on the ground Goal keepers move feet to put themselves in the best position to face the shot Get both hands behind ball, with thumbs touching; bring ball into body after catching Play 6v6 game with GKs Use either small goals or cones as goals Promote player values of: hard work, intelligent decision making (i.e. decisions that result in the team keeping possession), and selflessness what is best for the team. Use 2 touches Make accurate and correctly weighted passes Move off the ball to create good support angles 30

33 Group Pre Academy Age 7-8 Theme Shooting 1. Warm Up Ball Manipulation / Balance 5min Session 6&7 / 10 (Technical) 2. Main Activity Mainze Shooting 20min Time 1hr 3. Progression 3v1 15min 4. Final 4v4 / 5v5 Game 15min Players use various ball control and manipulation techniques: Move the ball around one foot with the other foot standing foot cannot leave the ground. Drag back ball with sole and tap behind leg. As above, with drag over of the ball with outside foot at the end. Drag back with one foot, take away with other. Outside of foot to inside of foot (little toe to bog toe). Inside of foot to outside of foot (big toe to little toe). Outside Cruyff Take off X1 to X2, X2 to X1, X2 to the middle, X1 back to X2, X2 to X3, X3 through ball to X2. X2 shoots on goal. (X1 moves up to X2s spot, next player in line moves up X1s spot, next pass goes to X3 first.) Stay on toes Accurate well-weighted passes Pass to the corner of the goal Hit the target Follow in rebounds 3v1 keep away 3 players try to keep the ball away from one When wins the ball the player who made the mistake to give it away becomes the (Start with passive of needed) Coach can walk around trying to tag players on their back Play 5v5 game Use either small goals or cones as goals Only take 2-touches Draw the in before passing Execute correct passing technique (see passing session for details) Make the pass that has the highest chance of success Off the Ball ( support ): Always move to good support position a position where team mate with the ball can use you as an option Always ask what can I do to help? Promote player values of: hard work, intelligent decision making (i.e. decisions that result in the team keeping possession), and selflessness what is best for the team. Use 2 touches Make accurate and correctly weighted passes Move off the ball to create good support angles 31

34 Group Pre Academy Age 7-8 Theme Turning 1. Warm Up Ball Manipulation / Balance 5min Session 8 / 10 (Technical) 2. Main Activity Ajax Circle 20min Time 1hr 3. Progression 3v1 15min 4. Final 4v4 / 5v5 Game 15min Players use various ball control and manipulation techniques: Move the ball around one foot with the other foot standing foot cannot leave the ground. Drag back ball with sole and tap behind leg. As above, with drag over of the ball with outside foot at the end. Drag back with one foot, take away with other. Outside of foot to inside of foot (little toe to bog toe). Inside of foot to outside of foot (big toe to little toe). Outside Cruyff Take off Players in the middle check to player on the outside who have balls. Players on the outside play the ball to the player on the inside. Player on the inside then turns and dribbles, and plays the ball to free outside player. Players switch positions after 45 secs 1min. Coach / coaches stand in the middle and hold up different colored pinnies. Players must call out what color is being held before they receive pass. Check shoulder to see pinnie Keep the ball close and under control Use variety of techniques to turn. 3v1 keep away 3 players try to keep the ball away from one When wins the ball the player who made the mistake to give it away becomes the (Start with passive of needed) Coach can walk around trying to tag players on their back Play 5v5 game Use either small goals or cones as goals Only take 2-touches Draw the in before passing Execute correct passing technique (see passing session for details) Make the pass that has the highest chance of success Off the Ball ( support ): Always move to good support position a position where team mate with the ball can use you as an option Always ask what can I do to help? Promote player values of: hard work, intelligent decision making (i.e. decisions that result in the team keeping possession), and selflessness what is best for the team. Use 2 touches Make accurate and correctly weighted passes Move off the ball to create good support angles 32

35 Group Pre Academy Age 7-8 Theme 1v1 Defending 1. Warm Up Ball Manipulation / Balance 5min Session 9 / 10 (Technical) 2. Main Activity Press, Delay, Win 20min Time 1hr 3. Progression 3v1 15min 4. Final 4v4 / 5v5 Game 15min Players use various ball control and manipulation techniques: Move the ball around one foot with the other foot standing foot cannot leave the ground. Drag back ball with sole and tap behind leg. As above, with drag over of the ball with outside foot at the end. Drag back with one foot, take away with other. Outside of foot to inside of foot (little toe to bog toe). Inside of foot to outside of foot (big toe to little toe). Outside Cruyff Take off One player holds his or her arm out, second player runs and touches that are with their outstretched are then retreats backwards. The exercise is repeated the opposite way around. The ball is at the feet of the player who holds their arm out, and that player dribbles forward as the defending player retreats. Progress to player with the ball trying to dribble over the end line and a tackle being made by retreating player Fast approach Measured slow down Appropriate distance from the ball (the distance of the two outstretched arms touching) Side-on body position Stay on toes Keep eye on ball Jockey back (Win ball) 3v1 keep away 3 players try to keep the ball away from one When wins the ball the player who made the mistake to give it away becomes the (Start with passive of needed) Coach can walk around trying to tag players on their back Play 5v5 game Use either small goals or cones as goals Only take 2-touches Draw the in before passing Execute correct passing technique (see passing session for details) Make the pass that has the highest chance of success Off the Ball ( support ): Always move to good support position a position where team mate with the ball can use you as an option Always ask what can I do to help? Promote player values of: hard work, intelligent decision making (i.e. decisions that result in the team keeping possession), and selflessness what is best for the team. Use 2 touches Make accurate and correctly weighted passes Move off the ball to create good support angles 33

36 Group Pre Academy Age 7-8 Theme Running w/ the Ball 1. Warm Up Ball Manipulation / Balance 5min Session 10 / 10 (Technical) 2. Main Activity Drop & Collect 20min Time 1hr 3. Progression 3v1 15min 4. Final 4v4 / 5v5 Game 15min Players use various ball control and manipulation techniques: Move the ball around one foot with the other foot standing foot cannot leave the ground. Drag back ball with sole and tap behind leg. As above, with drag over of the ball with outside foot at the end. Drag back with one foot, take away with other. Outside of foot to inside of foot (little toe to bog toe). Inside of foot to outside of foot (big toe to little toe). Outside Cruyff Take off All players at the front of their lines run with ball to center and leave ball just in front of cone to their right. Players then run ¾ way around the center square and collect the ball waiting there for them. They then dribble that ball to the back of the line they are now facing. They leave the ball with the player at the start of the line to repeat. Go both ways around. Keep ball close and under control, but far enough in front to reach top speed. Look for two - three touches between picking up and dropping off ball. Dribble with laces. Progressions: combo pass to pass ball (instead of just leave). Add move on return run. 3v1 keep away 3 players try to keep the ball away from one When wins the ball the player who made the mistake to give it away becomes the (Start with passive of needed) Coach can walk around trying to tag players on their back Play 5v5 game Use either small goals or cones as goals Only take 2-touches Draw the in before passing Execute correct passing technique (see passing session for details) Make the pass that has the highest chance of success Off the Ball ( support ): Always move to good support position a position where team mate with the ball can use you as an option Always ask what can I do to help? Promote player values of: hard work, intelligent decision making (i.e. decisions that result in the team keeping possession), and selflessness what is best for the team. Use 2 touches Make accurate and correctly weighted passes Move off the ball to create good support angles 34

37 Group Pre Academy Age 7-8 Theme Shape 1. Warm Up Juggling 10min Session 1&2 / 10 (Tactical) 2. Main Activity Handball 25min Time 1hr 3. Progression 5v5 Game 20min Players juggle ball individually Keep eye on ball the whole time Use laces to strike ball Try to pop ball up in air, about headheight Players play 5v5 game Players are allowed to use their hands to transport the ball. When holding the ball though the player must stand still. If the ball is dropped the ball goes to the opposition. Opposition can intercept but not tackle Goals are scored by head or volley only Move the ball with short, quick, passes. Create multiple angles of support off the ball Play safe balls Transition quickly between defense and attack Hold positions Play 5v5 game Use either small goals or cones as goals Promote player values of: hard work, intelligent decision making (i.e. decisions that result in the team keeping possession), and selflessness what is best for the team. Use 2 touches Make accurate and correctly weighted passes Move off the ball to create good support angles 35

38 Group Pre Academy Age 7-8 Theme Set Pieces 1. Warm Up Juggling 10min Session 1&2 / 10 (Tactical) 2. Main Activity 5v5 Game 25min Time 1hr 3. Progression 5v5 Game 20min Players juggle ball individually Keep eye on ball the whole time Use laces to strike ball Try to pop ball up in air, about headheight Play 5v5 game Use either small goals or cones as goals Ref the game calling all set plays. When needed, create random set plays. Be aware of what is going on and what action results in what set play Be aware after the set play is awarded to play / defend the ball quickly Play 5v5 game Use either small goals or cones as goals Ref the game calling all set plays. When needed, create random set plays. As above, plus: Promote player values of: hard work, intelligent decision making (i.e. decisions that result in the team keeping possession), and selflessness what is best for the team. Use 2 touches Make accurate and correctly weighted passes Move off the ball to create good support angles 36

39 Group Pre Academy Age 7-8 Theme Support Play 1. Warm Up Juggling 10min Session 4&5/ 10 (Tactical) 2. Main Activity Support Play 25min Time 1hr 3. Progression 5v5 Game 20min Players juggle ball individually Keep eye on ball the whole time Use laces to strike ball Try to pop ball up in air, about headheight 1 or 2 touch passing No grid can be un-manned The ball has to be played from a grid that has 2 players, but must be played to a grid where only 1 player is. This means a player from a 2-person grid must always move to support a 1-person grid. (Can progress to adding another team (in pinnies) to work in the same space) Look up to see where one can pass to. Move the ball with short, quick, passes. Move quickly to support Move at good angle to support keep the field open and in view Communicate so everyone knows who is going to help Make a pass that is appropriate for supporting player to deal with. Play 5v5 game Use either small goals or cones as goals Promote player values of: hard work, intelligent decision making (i.e. decisions that result in the team keeping possession), and selflessness what is best for the team. Use 2 touches Make accurate and correctly weighted passes Move off the ball to create good support angles 37

40 Group Pre Academy Age 7-8 Theme Combo Play 1. Warm Up Juggling 10min Session 6&7 / 10 (Tactical) 2. Main Activity Mainze Combo 25min Time 1hr 3. Progression 5v5 Game 20min Players juggle ball individually Keep eye on ball the whole time Use laces to strike ball Try to pop ball up in air, about headheight Ball gets played: out, back middle, out through, and then runner plays ball to opposite target. X1 X2, X2 X1, (X2 makes run inside,) X1 X2, X2 X3, X3 through ball to X2 Progress to through-ball (pass #5) being played long to the player standing diagonally opposite on the different grid. Passes should be made with the inside of foot and played with correct weight and accuracy. Passes should be made with the backfoot. (In diagram this would be: (1)right, (2)left, (3)left, (4)right, (5)left, (6)right) Runner hold run to not be offside, using the back line of the grid as the offside line. 2-touches max. Play 5v5 game Use either small goals or cones as goals Promote player values of: hard work, intelligent decision making (i.e. decisions that result in the team keeping possession), and selflessness what is best for the team. Use 2 touches Make accurate and correctly weighted passes Move off the ball to create good support angles 38

41 Group Pre Academy Age 7-8 Theme Switching Pt. of Attack 1. Warm Up Juggling 10min Session 8 / 10 (Tactical) 2. Main Activity 4 Goal Game 25min Time 1hr 3. Progression 5v5 Game 20min Players juggle ball individually Keep eye on ball the whole time Use laces to strike ball Try to pop ball up in air, about headheight Divide players into two equal teams. Teams play small-sided game. Regular game except any team can score in any small goal. If one avenue to score is blocked off, change direction and switch the point of attack to try a less well-defended avenue. Change directions quickly and attack at pace. Play 5v5 game Use either small goals or cones as goals Promote player values of: hard work, intelligent decision making (i.e. decisions that result in the team keeping possession), and selflessness what is best for the team. Use 2 touches Make accurate and correctly weighted passes Move off the ball to create good support angles 39

42 Group Pre Academy Age 7-8 Theme Possession 1. Warm Up Juggling 10min Session 9 / 10 (Tactical) 2. Main Activity Enemies 25min Time 1hr 3. Progression 5v5 Game 20min Players juggle ball individually Keep eye on ball the whole time Use laces to strike ball Try to pop ball up in air, about headheight 2 teams play in one grid separated by one center line. Team in possession makes one pass and then one player from the opposition enters their side of the grid to win the ball. Every three passes a new member of the opposition enters to try and win the ball. The point of the goal is to get all opposition players in one s own side and still complete three passes Any time an opposition player wins the ball he or she takes it to their side and play restarts that way. Start with defending team only walking. Play 5v5 game Use either small goals or cones as goals Pass the ball quickly (2-touches) Try to draw the in before making pass Create good angles of support off the ball. Promote player values of: hard work, intelligent decision making (i.e. decisions that result in the team keeping possession), and selflessness what is best for the team. Use 2 touches Make accurate and correctly weighted passes Move off the ball to create good support angles 40

43 Group Pre Academy Age 7-8 Theme Transition 1. Warm Up Juggling 15min Session 10 / 10 (Tactical) 2. Main Activity Flying Changes 25min Time 1hr 3. Progression 5v5 Game 20min Players juggle ball individually Keep eye on ball the whole time Use laces to strike ball Try to pop ball up in air, about headheight 2 teams Teams play 3v3 4v4 on the field Whatever team gets a shot off whether it is scored or not stays on the field. The opposing team sends on new players. New players always start out with the ball Get shots off as quickly as possible Retreat to defensive positions immediately after shooting Work hard to win the ball back Play 5v5 game Use either small goals or cones as goals Promote player values of: hard work, intelligent decision making (i.e. decisions that result in the team keeping possession), and selflessness what is best for the team. Use 2 touches Make accurate and correctly weighted passes Move off the ball to create good support angles 41

44 Junior Programs Guidebook Structural Shape Development Soccer is an adult s game designed for adults. It has to be adapted for children to learn. 1. Dino-Mites & Ginga 2. Rondo 3. Pre Academy 4. Academy Players in white (and blue) represent players added at each stage 42