U8 ChestnutHillYouthSoccer CoachingManual/Guide
U-8 Igniting the Passion Me, the ball and my friend The objective of the fundamental stage is to learn all basic movement skills by building overall motor skills. During the fundamental stage [Table 8] an opportunity occurs for a lifelong turn-on to the game. Igniting a passion for the game must be the number one objective for coaches of this age group. The aim of the coach is to keep their soccer experience fun, enjoyable and to foster a desire to play. This love of the game keeps people in the game for a lifetime. There can be differences now in the motor, cognitive and social development capabilities of the players in this age group. Individual and small group play, especially pairs, is essential for both touches on the ball and learning at their own pace. The emphasis on movement education and body awareness continues with this age group and is expanded to involve even more activities with the ball. These activities should include eye-hand and eye-foot coordination games. This is essential to overall coordination and a well-rounded physical fitness approach. Now is the opportune time for encouraging skills with either foot as the muscle movement patterns are a clean slate. Ambidextrous skill is certainly a goal for a coach committed to player development. Show players that passing is another option to dribbling. This is not just a technical objective but a psychosocial one since the basis of all teamwork is cooperation between partners. Many U-8 activities will be done in pairs to promote communication, cooperation and the conceptualization of soccer principles. Furthermore, encourage them to get better by practicing on their own with the ball. Children in the U-8 age group still play predominately as individuals and occasionally with a partner. The coach must set up numerous activities where the players are together but are still involved in individual play. This age group prefers individual activities, but it is possible to successfully get them into activities where they can work in pairs. The attention capacity for this age group is still limited to one task at a time. They are quite rightly focused on the ball. In a 4v4 match the opposition for the player with the ball is generally 1v7 even though partner play is now emerging. So during a match, the players need to focus on the task at hand, trying to control the ball. Unfortunately, they are often distracted by adults giving advice from around the field. Now they have to make a choice: either play the ball or listen to the adults. If the adults want to help the children play their best, they need to be quiet while watching the children s game. From parallel play, as described in the U-6 age group, to learning to share with others, these milestones are passed by the end of this age. Thus, players need encouragement to share and approval for trying. Ask them to work with others to solve a challenge. Start them with just one partner and work to a
variety of partners from there. It is important for early childhood coaches and administrators to teach this reality to the player s parents and to let everyone know it is OK to play swarm ball at the U-6 and U- 8 age groups. Swarm ball may actually help players improve their dribbling skills and decision-making ability. Six, 7 and 8 year olds are starting to understand what it means to play a game. They are beginning to cooperate more with their teammates. In fact, they will now recognize that they even have teammates because they will occasionally pass the ball to a teammate purposefully. Some U-8 players will have played for more than a season; however, this does not mean these players are ready for the mental demands of tactical team soccer. True, they do have an idea of the game with regard to scoring or preventing goals, but the emphasis still needs to be placed on the individual s ability to control the ball. They are still there to have fun, and because some of the players may be new to soccer, it is imperative that activities are geared toward individual success and participation. Parallel play may occur in training sessions for U-8 players, too. The coach must set up numerous activities where the players are together, but still involved in both individual and partner play. General Characteristics of the U-8 Age Group Like to show skills need approval Beginning to develop some physical confidence (most can ride a bicycle) Lack sense of pace go flat out, chasing the ball until they drop Still in motion twitching, jerking, scratching and blinking are all second nature physical movements Still into running, jumping, climbing and rolling Boys and girls are still quite similar in physical and psychological development Attention span is a bit longer than the U-6 age group Developing playmates More into imitation of the big guys (sports heroes becoming important) Still very sensitive Dislikes personal failure in front of peers, making ridicule from the coach in front of the group very destructive Still do not believe in the intensity of the team at all costs Inclined more toward small group activities
Practice learning anything hurts somewhat. You see how bad you are at it and with encouragement there is improvement. With practice comes discipline. The best road to getting there runs not through the land of fear and punishment but through the land of connection, play, practice, mastery and recognition. He/she learns how to be coached. - Dr. Edward M. Hallowell, child and adult psychiatrist specializing in ADD/ADHD Using game-like activities, which allow for trial and error, exposes children to the components of the game. The key training activities are body awareness and maze games. Introduce a few target games too. They need to touch the ball frequently during fun activities that engage them. Small-sided games are still undoubtedly the best option for these players. Not only will they get more touches on the ball, but it is also an easier game to understand. Age appropriate activities can be found in US Youth Soccer s The Novice Coach Vol. 1 Under-6 to 8 years, US Youth Soccer Skills School, US Youth Soccer Coaching Principles of Play through Small-Sided Games, US Youth Soccer Positive Parenting for Youth Soccer DVD, The Official US Youth Soccer Coaching Manual and US Youth Soccer Handbook for Small-Sided Games. All of the adults associated with the club should be familiar with the philosophy promoted in the US Youth Soccer Vision document. All resources can be found on USYouthSoccer.org. Remember that the game is for all players and everyone should be encouraged to participate. The components of the game are the building blocks of player development. Coach and player must work jointly throughout a player s career to reinforce and add to these building blocks. The core goal is a well-rounded player. Here are the blocks within the components of the game for this age group. Components of the Game for the U-8 Age Group* Technique: Experiment with the qualities of a rolling or spinning ball. Introduce ball lifting, juggling, block tackle, receiving ground balls with the inside and sole of the foot, shooting with the inside of the foot, toe passing and shooting and dribbling while changing direction. Introduce the push pass. Fitness: Agility, eye-foot and eye-hand coordination, balance, leaping, bounding, tumbling, catching, throwing, pulling, pushing, warm-up activities and movement education. Continue education on sports nutrition with players and parents. Psychology: Encourage working in pairs, sportsmanship, parental involvement, how to play, emotional management, creativity, dynamic activities, participation of all players and a safe and fun environment. There is still a short attention span unless the player has peaked (keep interest high). Like to show what they can do encourage trying new things. Developing self-esteem activities should foster positive feedback and attainable positive success. Tactics: Back line and forward line, 1v1 attack and choosing to dribble or pass. Introduce the names of positions (fullbacks and forwards). Institute games of 2v1, 1v2 and 2v2, playing with the ball with a purpose and promote problem solving. *Please note that the components of the game are in a priority order for this age group.
The training session must be player-centered with the coach as a facilitator of the soccer experience. With this age group it is necessary to be adaptable. Use guided discovery and the coach s toolkit, as discussed in The Primer section, which allows youngsters to play with little coaching interruption and gets them thinking. Throughout the season, allow the players to experiment and discover the ball skill being taught on their own. The coach should occasionally demonstrate skills, or have someone demonstrate a few times during the session. Also during the session, call out one or two of the key coaching points on how to execute a ball skill. Praise loudly and positively when a player does a skill correctly positive reinforcement. Encourage them to try to do new things with the ball throughout the soccer season. While it is still important for the training session that each player has a ball, paired activities will now be done as well as individual ones. Encourage the players to cooperate through passing or helping on defense by running back toward goal. Cooperation in pairs is the foundation to teamwork. Now that children are at an age where they can play together purposefully and toward a common objective, work on cooperative partner activities. Typical U-8 Training Session Should not exceed one hour. Free play or a warm-up, each player with a ball, dynamic stretching and soccernastics. -approximately 15 minutes- Some individual body awareness activities. Introduce partner activities. A mixture of individual and partner activities. Add more maze-type games. Introduce target games with a variety of player combinations: 1v1, 2v1, 1v2 and 2v2. -approximately 25 minutes- Conclude with a Small-Sided Game of 4v4, two goals and no goalkeepers. -approximately 20 minutes- Coaches should devote the end of each training session to playing 4v4 practice games. Fun games can also be played involving small numbers, especially 1v1, 2v1, 1v2, 2v2, 1v3, 2v3 and 3v3 leading up to the final activity of 4v4. Through these games, expose the U-8 age group to the principles of play. It is important to ensure each child has a ball and to focus on fun games. The benefit of the increased number of touches on the ball is irreplaceable. Be well prepared and have a selection of game-like activities planned while keeping in mind these young children have short attention spans. Developing a general understanding of the basic rules of the game is an objective in working with the players. U-8 players must play at least 50 percent of each match they attend. They should not play a season longer than three months and must have at least one full month off between seasons of play. Please ask the club director to arrange an age appropriate coaching clinic by calling your US Youth Soccer State Association technical director.
Coach s qualities: Sensitive teacher, facilitator, patient, enthusiastic, imaginative, able to demonstrate, understand technique and preferably young at heart. License recommendation: Volunteer Coach U-6 /U-8 Youth Module Certificate or National Youth License. Paid Coach National Youth License. The game: Preferably these should be unstructured pick-up game style matches. No organized matches where the score is recorded. If scheduled matches must occur then they should be seen as another fun activity that includes a soccer ball. There should be no emphasis on team concepts or positions. Outcome based matches are in their future. Playing for results must not be part of the U-8 match.
Objectivesofsocceractivities: 1. Getplayerstosolveproblems 2. Fostercooperationandteamwork 3. Balancecoachcontrolofgameswithplayercontrolsothatthere isroomforimagination. 4. Useactivitiesthatbringoutanaspectoftherealgame. 5. Excitement getkids juicedup! Coachesneedtoavoidthe4evil L s atallcosts 1. Laps Timeisprecious.Dofungameactivitieswhereeveryone hasaball! 2. Lectures Attentionspanisshort.Ifyouspeakmorethan30 secondsthey regone! 3. Lines Don thavethemstandingwaitingtotakeaturnkicking ball.useactivitieswheretheycanallparticipateatthesame time! 4. Language Weareimportantrolemodels.Neveruse inappropriatelanguagearoundchildren(makesureotheradults donoteither!)
USoccerGameRules At this age level, refereeing will be an art form. We want to familiarize the childrenwith the rulesofthe game,while also allowing them to play the game withaminimalamountofinterruption. These rules are the guide, but we ask for everyone s assistance in making the game fun. Remember, there are no records kept, no playoffs and no championshiptobewon. A)Field 1)Eachfieldwillbemarkedwithconesandlineswherepossible 2)BoundaryLine:Approximately40yardsx60yards 3)PenaltyArea:Approximately16x30yards B)TheBall 1)Theballisasize3. C)LengthofGames 1)Thegamewillbeplayedwithtwo20-25minutehalves. 2)Therewillbea5minutehalftimeperiod.Teamswillchangesideafterhalftime. Thegamesshallbeterminatedregardlessofthetimeremainingtoaccommodatethe nextgametime. D)Players 1)Eachteamwillplaywith8playersonthefield.(7fieldplayersand1 goalkeeper) 2)Playerequipment: (a)shinguardsaremandatoryandareworninsidethesocks. (b)footwearcanbeathleticshoesorsoftcleatedshoes. 3)Substitutionisunlimitedandaccomplishedontheflyaswellasonsetplays.The playermustcomeoffthefieldbeforethesubstitutemayenterthefield.
E)TheRulesof8v8Soccer 1)Thegameisstartedwiththeballplacedwithinthecentercircle.Playersofthe opposingteammustbeeight(8)yardsawaywhenthekickistaken. 2)Agoalcannotbescoreddirectlyfromanindirectfreekickorthrowin.Theballmust touchanotherplayeronthefieldofeitherteambeforegoingintothegoalforagoal. 3)Agoalcanbescoreddirectlyfromthekickoff. 4)Goalscanbescoredfromanywhere,buttheballmustpassbelowthecrossbarand betweenthegoalpostsforagoal. 5)Whentheballgoeswhollyacrossanyboundary,thegameisrestartedwithathrow in.theballisawardedtotheteamoppositeoftheplayerwholasttouchedtheball. (a)overthesideline:theballisplacedonthelinewheretheballwentout. (b)overtheendlinebytheattackingteam:theballisplacedanywherein thegoalarea. (c)overtheendlinebythedefendingteam:theballisplacedinthecorner wheretheendlinemeetsthesideline. 6)ThrowIns (a)atthemomentofdeliveringtheball,thethrower: Facesthefieldofplay Haspartofeachfooteitheronthetouchlineorontheground outsidethetouchline Holdstheballwithbothhands Deliverstheballfrombehindandoverthehead Deliverstheballfromthepointwhereitleftthefieldofplay (b)allopponentsmuststandnolessthan2m(2yds)fromthepointatwhichthe throwinistaken. (c)theballisinplaywhenitentersthefieldofplay. (d)afterdeliveringtheball,thethrowermustnottouchtheballagainuntilithas touchedanotherplayer.
7)Thereisnotripping,pushing,punching,holdingorkickinganopponent.Aplayer cannotpickup,hold,stoporpropeltheballwithhis/herhands. (a)allinfringementsarepunishedbytheawardingofadirectfreekick. (b)thekickisawardedtotheoppositeteamandistakenfromthespotwhere thefouloccurred. (c)playersoftheopposingteammustbeaminimumofeight(8)yardsaway fromtheballwhenafreekickistaken. (d)ifthefouloccurredinsidethepenaltyarea,apenaltykickisawardedandthe ballisplacedeightyardsfromthegoalline.allplayersexceptthegoalkeeper andtheplayertakingthepenaltykickmustbeoutsidethepenaltyareaandthe penaltyarc. 8)Foroffensessuchasplayinginadangerousmanner,preventingthegoalkeeperfrom releasingtheballfromhisorherhands,impedingtheprogressofanopponent (obstruction),orcommitsanyotheroffenseforwhichplayisstoppedresultsinan IndirectFreeKick (a)allinfringementsarepunishedbytheawardingofanindirectfreekick(i.e. theballmusttouchanotherplayeronthefieldbeforeitentersthegoal) (b)thekickisawardedtotheoppositeteamandistakenfromthespotwhere thefouloccurred. (c)playersoftheopposingteammustbeaminimumofeight(8)yardsaway fromtheballwhenafreekickistaken. (d)agoalcannotbescoreddirectlyoffofanindirectfreekick;itmusttouch anotherplayerfromeitherteamtobeagoal. 9)Offsideruleisnotusedin8v8soccer. Goalkeeperrulesapplyin8v8soccer Youthplayersbenefitfromaclearunderstandingofgoalierules.Sinceit'sbesttorotate mostofyourplayersingoal,youcanworktoimpartanunderstandingofwhattodoin eachlikelysituationtoallyourplayers.takingturnsingoalallowsyouraspiring goalkeeperstoalsogainexperienceandvaluablefootworktrainingasfieldplayers. Thegoalkeeperwearsadifferentcolorjerseyfromthatofteammatesandopponents. Withinthepenaltyarea,thegoalkeepercanpickuptheballwithhis/herhands,bounce theballonce,dropkick,punttheballorthrowit.thekeepermaynotdelaythegame indefinitely.thekeepercannotpickupabackpassfromateammate'sfootbutcan handleballsheadedback.(enforcingthislastonemaybealostcause.)
LessonPlans
Topic: Passing and Receiving Objective: To improve the teams passing technique and to recognize the correct timing and opportunity to pass Technical Warm up Organization Coaching Pts. Gate Passing: In a 25x30 yard grid, set up many gates (two cones about 1 yard apart). Players are now in pairs with a soccer ball. They must pass the soccer ball through the gate to their teammate in order to score a point and move to another goal to score another point. Coach: Players count how many points they score in a minute. Have them pass only with their left foot or right foot, or the outside of their foot. Technique of passing o locked ankle, toe up o eyes on ball at instant of contact, follow through to partner o strike ball solid through the middle, knees bent and balanced o receiving first touch - directional Communication to ask for the ball Time: 10 minutes Small Sided Game Organization Coaching Pts. 2v2 to 4 Goals: In a 15x20 yard grid place two sets of cone goals 2 yards apart on the end line about 1 yard away from the corners. Players will attack a set of two goals and defend the other set. Score by passing the ball through one of the two cone goals. Tech of passing and receiving Pace of the pass First Touch Directional Clear Communication (demand the ball) Supporting Shape Exp. Small Sided Game Organization Coaching Pts. 3v3 to End Zones: In a 25x30 yard grid, make a one yard Soft 1 st touch receiving into space, away from pressure Proper weight, accuracy and timing of passes wide End Zone along each end line. Possession vs. Penetration Players will score by passing into and Proper angle and distance of stopping the soccer ball in the End Zone. Defenders can t defend in the End Zone. support off the ball Communication between players Time: 25 minutes Game Organization Coaching Pts. 6v6 Scrimmage Play with Goalkeepers in a 45-60 yard long by 35-45 yard wide field. All of the above Time: 30 minutes COOL DOWN Activities to reduce heart rate, static stretching & review session Time: 10 min.
Topic: Individual Defending Objective: To teach players when and how to pressure the ball Technical Warm up Organization Coaching Pts. Defend the Cone Warm-Up: 1 st defender should bend their Two players at cones 10 yards apart run to block direct path to the facing one another with a ball. The goal (cone) player with the ball passes the ball to his 1 st defender shall force the opponent who tries to hit the cone opponent in the direction they where the ball was served from. The want them to go passing player defends his cone. Defensive stance-on their Version 2: Player starts at same cone toes, knees bent, one foot and defender starts by passing through forward, one foot back attackers legs who turns and tries to Technique of block and poke score on goal (cone) tackle Small Sided Game Organization Coaching Pts. 1v1 to Line (10 min): In a grid 12x12 yards a player passes the ball diagonally across the grid to his opponent who then attacks the line on the opposite side. The player scores by dribbling across the line under control. attacker with the ball Read attackers 1 st Important to delay progress of the opponent by jockeying the touch and make decision to tackle or delay Block Tackle Poke Tackle The 1 st defender defends the line and tries to dispossess the attacker. If the 1 st defender gains possession of the ball he immediately attacks the opposite goal line. Exp. Small Sided Game Organization Coaching Pts. 3v3 to Two Small Goals (10 min) Immediate pressure from behind Two teams compete in 3v3 exercise in a Patience; do not over commit defined space. Teams score by dribbling Close down quickly and or passing through the small goals. under control Scoring: Block Tackle 1 point for passing goal Poke Tackle 3 points for dribbling goal Time: 20 minutes Game Organization Coaching Pts. 6v6 Scrimmage Play with Goalkeepers in a 45-60 yard long All of the above by 35-45 yard wide field. Time: 30 minutes COOL DOWN Activities to reduce heart rate, static stretching & review session Time 10 min.
Topic: Shooting Objective: To improve the technique and confidence of shooting with the inside and instep of the foot Technical Warm up Organization Coaching Pts. Numbered Shooting: Two goals with GK s set up about 40 yards apart. Each player with a number is dribbling in defined area between goals. When coach calls a number, that player dribbles out of area and shoots on the goal. Shots should be taken about 10-12 yards out. Body position and balance Eye on the ball at moment of contact Strike ball with ankle locked and hard bone on top of foot Non-kicking foot directed at target Strike the center of the ball and follow through towards target landing on shooting foot Shooting technique of a moving ball Small Sided Game Organization Coaching Pts. 4 Corner Shooting (15 min): Two equal teams playing 2v2 with GK s. The remaining players start at Proper technique and body control Placement vs. power corners behind their own goal. Coach Quality preparation touch begins the play from the sideline by Proper selection of contact serving a ball to player in any corner. surface Players try to score on their opponent s Timing and shape of goal. Play continues until ball is out of attacking runs bounds or a goal is scored. Players Creativity and deception return to their corners. Keepers stay on. Combination Play Exp. Small Sided Game Organization Coaching Pts. 3v3 (4v4) Plus Team on Deck (15 min): Proper technique and body Two goals with GK s set up about 25-30 control yards apart. Team is divided into 3 Placement vs. power groups. Two teams compete to score a Quality preparation touch goal. The team that scores defends that Proper selection of contact goal. The team on deck comes onto the surface field to defend quickly while the scored Timing and shape of on team quickly leaves the playing field. attacking runs This game teaches teams to go to goal Creativity and deception with pace and to take chances quickly. Time: 20 minutes Game Organization Coaching Pts. Play with Goalkeepers in a 45-60 yard long All of the above 6v6 Scrimmage by 35-45 yard wide field. Time: 30 minutes COOL DOWN Activities to reduce heart rate, static stretching & review session Time 10 min.
Topic: Combination Play Objective: To improve passing technique and introduce and train combination play (Wall Passes and take Overs) Technical Warm up Organization Coaching Pts. Combination Square: In a grid about 25x25 yards, place 4 to 5 players in training vests. These players will roam around grid and give support to players with balls. 4 to5 players with balls dribble in grid looking to connect with support players to perform wall passes. Version 2: Build to take-overs Version 3: Wall passes and take-overs Small Sided Game Exp. Small Sided Game Organization 4v4-1(4v3): In a grid about 30X35 yards with two 5 yard goals on each end line. Play 4v4-1, (4v3 +GK). The -1 player is the Goalkeeper on defending team. When the defending team gets the ball they regain their fourth player. Encourage players to try to score after a wall pass or take over. Wall pass goal= 5 pts. Take over goal= 3 pts. Wall pass & take over = 10pts Organization 4v4 to Two Small Goals: In a grid 30x35 yards with four goals measuring 3 feet across in each corner, two teams attack two goals and defend two goals. To encourage combination play, the attacking team will receive 5 points if they combine with a wall pass or takeover before they score. Otherwise, they receive 1 point for scoring. Variation 2: Add a plus player who always plays for the attacking team if they cannot keep possession long enough to create a combination. Time: 20 minutes General Quality technique while passing and receiving Be patient & let opportunities develop Encourage finishing off of combination opportunities Positive environment to encourage creative and instinctive play Communication Wall Pass 1 st attacker dribbles at 1 st defender 2 nd attacker is slightly ahead of defender in good supporting angle turned sideways on 1 st attacker reads defenders and supporting cues; decide to dribble or play a wall pass Disguise, deception of pass and runs Accuracy and quality of pass Look for opportunities to create numbers up situations (2v1, 3v1 etc.) Takeover 2 nd attacker runs directly at the 1 st attacker from the opposite direction 1 st attacker protects the ball from the 1 st defender by keeping body between ball and defender 1 st attacker leaves the ball and 2 nd attacker takes the ball using same foot (right to right or left to left) Simple communication: take" or leave Game Organization Coaching Pts. 6v6 Scrimmage Play with Goalkeepers in a 45-60 yard long All of the above by 35-45 yard wide field. Time: 30 minutes COOL DOWN Activities to reduce heart rate, static stretching & review session Time 10 min.
Topic: Individual Attacking Objective: To help players understand the importance of individual attacking when their team is in possession of the ball Technical Warm up Organization Coaching Pts. Free Dribbling: Everyone with a ball, use inside, outside, and laces and sole of the foot to turn away from pressure. Have players dribble with speed, change direction, and perform moves. Version 2: Have players work on moves to beat pressure, such as step over, double step over, etc. Version 3: Moves can be combined so that players are doing 3-4 moves in sequence. Then the sequence can be done with the nondominant foot. Keep the ball close Use all surfaces of the foot Keep your head up and use peripheral vision Change of direction and burst of speed Be creative try something new Small Sided Game Organization Coaching Pts. 1v1 to Two Small Goals: Take a peek and know In a grid 10x15 yards with small goals what your options are on the end lines. A player passes the Execute a feint to unbalance ball diagonally across the grid to his the defender and dribble past opponent who then attacks the small them with a burst of speed goal. Passing through the goal is 1 point Encourage player to be and dribbling through the goal is 3 creative with the ball at their points. Each player keeps track of feet his/her score. Exp. Small Sided Game Organization Coaching Pts. 3v3 to End Zones: Two teams play in a defined space with each team attacking an end-zone defended by the opponent. Teams score points when a player dribbles into the End-Zone. Coach shall encourage players to recognize opportunities to burst into space under control. Work together to score Verbal & visual communication Use support players to make attacking decisions Encourage players to be creative and take risks near the end zone. Time: 20 minutes Game Organization Coaching Pts. 6v6 Scrimmage Play with Goalkeepers in a 45-60 yard long All of the above by 35-45 yard wide field. Time: 30 minutes COOL DOWN Activities to reduce heart rate, static stretching & review session Time 10 min.
Topic: Passing and Receiving Objective: To improve the ability of the players to pass and receive balls played on the ground Technical Warm up Organization Coaching Pts. Paired Passing: Two players passing and moving a ball between them in a defined space. After the player passes the ball, he/she shall move into another receiving position. Players should position themselves in passing lanes to receive and return a pass. Technique of passing o locked ankle, toe up o eyes on ball at instant of contact, follow through to partner o strike ball solid through the middle, knees bent and balanced o receiving first touch directional Communication to ask for the ball Time: 10 minutes Small Sided Game Organization Coaching Pts. 3v3 5 Goal Game: Tech of passing and receiving In a 20x50 yard grid, five 2 yard goals are Finding the open gate or goal spread out throughout the grid. The teams Pace of the pass score by passing and receiving through First Touch Directional any of the goals to a teammate. First team Clear Communication (demand the ball) to get 10 points wins. Supporting Shape Coach: First have the players receiving with inside of foot, outside, and weak foot. Exp. Small Sided Game Organization Coaching Pts. 4v4 with Bumpers: In a 20x30 yard grid, two teams of 4 players each will try to score. Standing on each sideline will be 2 bumper players Soft 1 st touch receiving into space, away from pressure Proper weight, accuracy and timing of passes with 2 touches each who can be used at Possession vs. Penetration any time by the attacking team. If a team Proper angle and distance of gets scored upon, they become the support off the ball bumper players and the outside team Communication between plays on the field. Keep score and make players the game competitive. Coach: Stress correct technique, receiving sideways on, and facing where they wish to play. Time: 25 minutes Game Organization Coaching Pts. 6v6 Scrimmage Play with Goalkeepers in a 45-60 yard long All of the above by 35-45 yard wide field. Time: 30 minutes COOL DOWN Activities to reduce heart rate, static stretching & review session Time 10 min.
Topic: Small Group Defending Objective: To teach the players the responsibilities of the pressuring defender as to when, where, and how to regain the ball for their team Technical Warm up Organization Coaching Pts. 1v1 Pressure - Warm-up: 1 st Pressing Defender should: One group of players will serve to the Approach fast, arrive slow, other and defend the player with the ball bend run, correct stance, try to applying the principles of 1v1 defend. win ball off first touch of First attacker will try to dribble across opponent, delay progress of opposite end-line. (12 yards wide by 15 opponent by jockeying the player with ball, try to force yards long) them out of play Small Sided Game Organization Coaching Pts. 2v2 to Two Small Goals: Speed and angle of approach In a 15x20 grid with small goals on each Pressing defender forces head end line, play 2v2 matches. Rotate teams to down of attacker different fields. You could play matches Covering defender is with off sides. positioned about 30 degrees behind pressure Patience; do not over commit Good communication to facilitate role switching while defending Exp. Small Sided Game Organization Coaching Pts. 3v3 to Two Small Goals: Immediate pressure from behind Two teams compete in 3v3 exercise in a Patience; do not over commit defined space. Teams score by dribbling or Close down quickly and under passing through the small goals. control Block Tackle Poke Tackle Time: 20 minutes Game Organization Coaching Pts. Play with Goalkeepers in a 45-60 yard long All of the above 6v6 Scrimmage by 35-45 yard wide field. Time: 30 minutes COOL DOWN Activities to reduce heart rate, static stretching & review session Time 10 min.
Topic: Combination Play (Wall Passes and Take-overs) Objective: To introduce players to combination play, improve their passing abilities and recognize the correct timing & opportunity to pass Technical Warm up Organization Coaching Pts. Dutch Square: Half the players create a square in a defined space with a ball. Players without balls are in the middle and check to receive a pass from outside players. Once they are inside, players have the ball and they look to connect a pass with another outside player. Review technique of passing & receiving Introduce wall passing Introduce take-overs Small Sided Game Exp. Small Sided Game Organization 2v1 to Small Goals: In a 15x 20 yard grid, two players are trying to score after they have combined and put the ball through the small goals. The exercise starts with the defender passing the ball to any of the attackers at the opposite end. If the ball goes out of bounds or the attackers score, re-start a new game and change the defender. If the defender scores, he and his partner become the attackers. Organization 3v3 or 4v4 to End Zones: Two teams play in a defined space with each team attacking an end-zone defended by the opponent. Teams score 5 points when a team penetrates the End Zone by performing a wall pass or take over. One point if just pass or dribble into the End-Zone Coach: Encourage players to recognize opportunities to combine to penetrate. General Quality technique while passing and receiving Be patient & let opportunities develop Encourage finishing off of combination opportunities Positive environment to encourage creative and instinctive play Communication Wall Pass 1 st attacker dribbles at 1 st defender 2 nd attacker is slightly ahead of defender in good supporting angle turned sideways on 1 st attacker reads defenders and supporting cues; decide to dribble or play a wall pass Disguise, deception of pass and runs Accuracy and quality of pass Look for opportunities to create numbers up situations (2v1, 3v1 etc.) Takeover 2 nd attacker runs directly at the 1 st attacker from the opposite direction 1 st attacker protects the ball from the 1 st defender by keeping body between ball and defender 1 st attacker leaves the ball and 2 nd attacker takes the ball using same foot (right to right or left to left) Simple communication: take" or leave Time: 20 minutes Game Organization Coaching Pts. 6v6 Scrimmage Play with Goalkeepers in a 45-60 yard long by 35-45 yard wide field. COOL DOWN All of the above Time: 30 minutes Activities to reduce heart rate, static stretching & review session Time 10 min.
Goalkeeping LessonPlans
coaches incorrectly set up practices where goalkeepers work mostly by themselves and call on them only for shooting exercises. Goalkeepers should be used early in practice in technical development with the ball at their feet, and either as targets or in their primary role in front of the net to solidify their importance. They should not only play as shot blockers and distributors of the ball, but as active communication links with the rest of the team. shooting practice. Coaches should permit goalkeepers to distribute the ball, which increases their decision-making and communication abilities. The goalkeeper s offensive role should develop in concert with their defensive role. ness. Goalkeepers who stay on their line or who are not attached to the rest of the team will soon be reacting to a desperate situation instead of a relatively safe one. Encouraging goalkeepers to be involved and ready goes a long way in reducing dangerous situations. receive very little praise. In many ways, goalkeepers are subject to open and unforgiving exposure. Mistakes are clearly showcased and become very personalized, and psychologically deflating. Mistakes will be made. Encouragement and understanding mixed with sound coaching advice will go a long way in creating a stimulating playing environment. 50
CardinalRulesofGoalkeeping Teachplayerstofollowtheseruleswhentheyareingoal. 1.Goforeverything! Youmaynotbeabletostopeveryshotthatcomesyourway,butifyoumaketheattempt,youwillfind thatyouarestoppingshotsyouneverbeforethoughtpossible.youwillalsohavethepersonal satisfactionthatatleastyoumadetheattemptandyourteammateswillbemoreforgivingevenifyou miss. 2.Afterasave getupquickly! Ifyouhavegonetothegroundtomakeasave,getbackonyourfeetasfastaspossible.Lookforafast breakdistributionordirectyourteammatesintopositiontoreceiveabuildupdistribution.thisaspect isparticularlyimportantifyouarehurting.youcannotshowweakness,startthecounterattack.thiswill particularlyintimidateyouropponentsandraisetheconfidenceinyourteammates. 3.Donotbehalfhearted 100percenteffort! Everytimeyoumakeaplay,itmustbewithallofyourability.Ifyougohalfway,youwillmisssavesand possiblyinjureyourself. 4.Communicateloudly! Youmustconstantlygivebriefinstructionswhenondefense.Whenyourteamisontheattack,cometo thetopofyourpenaltyareaorbeyondandtalktoyourteammatesandoffersupporttothedefenders. Bementallyinvolvedintheentirematch,nomatterwheretheballis. 5.Noexcuses!Nowhining!Justgetonwiththematch. Ifagoalisscoredagainstyou,acornerkickisgivenuportheshotisanearmiss,donotyellatyour teammatesevenifit stheirfault.donothangyourheadorkickthegroundorthepostifitwasyour fault.duringthematchisnotimetopointfingersormakeexcuses.theplayisover,it sancienthistory; getonwithplayingtheremainderofthematch.focusonwhatliesahead!
GOALKEEPERDEVELOPMENTCURRICULUM Three basic catches utilizing proper body shape: Low ball scoop Basket Catch ContourCatch Collapse Dive to both sides. Starting first with a still ball, then a rolling/thrown ball, then a slow kicked ball. Use proper footwork, staying on the balls of your feet, to get into position to dive Always take a leading step forward to meet the ball, leading with the hands, not feet Catch the ball in a W grip with one hand on top and one hand behind the ball Land on your side (hip and shoulder) with opposite knee driving across body for more power and protection. Eyes on the ball, one hand on top, one behind, elbows slightly bent and top leg up for protection Three basic throwing techniques: Bowl: ball must be cupped, GK stepping forward with opposite foot from serving hand, low body posture, release the ball low so the ball rolls smooth on the playing surface. Roundhouse: ball cupped in hand straight back behind GK, bring hand with ball up over your head with elbow locked and shoulder going forward then release the ball as hand comes up over the shoulder. Release early for a high service, or late for a low service. **Introduce the roundhouse throw at this age level, but a majority of players might not be able to perform the skill just yet. As the players grow and become more comfortable with the ball in their hands, they will be able to grip it with one hand, using their forearm for support. Baseball: ball in palm of hand besides head and is thrown straight forward as GK steps into throw, let ball roll off fingertips, backspin will help settle ball quicker Basic positioning in the goal using proper footwork. Quick lateral footwork to get body behind the ball and limit diving. Not crossing the feet at this level will help increase the speed of the goalkeepers lateral footwork and prevent tripping over their feet. GK must always try and position their bodies on an imaginary line that runs from the center of the goal to the ball. Position bodies far enough off the goal line to cover the angle created by the ball and both posts. Be able to cover either post with a couple of quick steps and a dive. At sharp angles, always play outside the near post Be aware of balls over the head when too far off the line 1