Youth Module II. Youth Module II U9 U12

Youth Module II Youth Module II U9 U12

Contents Youth Module II Introduction Page 1 Curriculum Outline Page 2 Characteristics of U10 Children Page 3-4 Characteristics of U12 Children Page 5-6 Lessons Plans for U10 Age Group Page 7-13 Lesson Plans for U12 Age Group Page 14-24 Blank Lesson Plan Page 25-26 Modified Rules for Small Sided Games for U10 Age Group Page 27-33 Field Sizes for U10 Age Group Page 34-35 Modified Rules for Small Sided Games for U12 Age Group Page 36-40 Field Sizes for U12 Age Group Page 41-43

Youth Module II We are very pleased to have the opportunity to work with you during this course and in the future education of our players. Due to continued research, your instructional staff and curriculum are continually improving and changing based on the demands of today's game. The following Youth Module II course is the latest revision in a focused effort to meet the ever changing landscape of soccer. Gordon Henderson Ohio South Director of Coaching The coaching methodology you will be exposed to during this and all coaching courses are designed to be 'player centered' as opposed to 'coach centered'. This has proven to be very effective from the state to national level...from U6 to U18. The curriculum has been used in the development of the youngest novice player to our most talented youth players. A large part of your coaching will be done in small sided games which we believe provides the best model for teaching and learning the game. In addition, we will help you to coach 'the game as the best teacher'...providing the players an environment to experiment and learn within conditioned activities that naturally lead to the 'real game'. By virtue of your association with Ohio South Youth Soccer, you are also affiliated with U.S. Youth Soccer and U.S. Soccer. This puts you in unique company among American soccer educators. You are in an elite group of teachers and your players will benefit from all of your educational endeavors. At Ohio South, we are very proud to be the office of Education, Information and Guidance for all items youth soccer related. Please feel free to contact us with your concerns or questions. Ohio South Youth Soccer Association 25 Whitney Drive, Suite 104 Milford, OH 45150 www.osysa.com TEL: (513) 576 9555 FAX: (513) 576 1666 P a g e 1

Youth Module II Curriculum Outline Recommended Course Length: 8 hours (2.5 hours theory & 5.5 hours practical) Course Administration Candidates must arrive 30 minutes prior to start of course. Candidates must have downloaded and read appropriate materials from the website (if required). Candidates must have completed the online theory course (if required). 1. (1 hour) Course Opening Philosophy of Coaching Characteristics of U10/U12 Children 2. (1.5 hours) Field Session with Candidates 3. (1.5 hours) Discussion on Prevention & Care Team/Risk Management Modified Laws 4. (2 hours) Field Sessions with U10 Players, Instructors and Candidates with Kids U10 Activities 6 v 6 game on appropriate field Explanation of Training Sessions 5. (2 hours) Field Sessions with U12 Players, Instructors and Candidates with Kids U12 Activities 8 v 8 game on appropriate field Explanation of Training Sessions P a g e 2

Characteristics of U10 Children Youth Module II Lengthened attention span compared to the U8 player Far more team orientated and aware of identification to their team Still in motion, but not as busy as a U6 or U8 Psychologically becoming more firm Boys and girls beginning to develop separately, girls at a faster pace Gross and fine motor skills becoming much more refined Prefer balls and equipment with team or brand identification Pace factor becoming developed (they do think ahead) Implications for Coaching Soccer Training Sessions U10 Size 4 ball Individual ball work and small group activities 60 minutes to 90 minutes each 2 training sessions plus 1 game per week 4-5 activities of 15-20 minutes each Lesson plans activities are now related and progressional Last portion of the session should be set aside for free play with minimal or no coaching No Lines...No Laps...No Lectures P a g e 3

Youth Module II Children at this age still DO NOT NEED MUCH OF A WARM UP. Instead of doing a lap of the field and/or stretching, get right into your activities and spend time with the ball. Have everyone involved with a ball as much as possible. Individual ball work or small sided sessions. The small numbers allow the players to gain critical practice at 1v1 or 2v1 situations. These are the building blocks of the game. The segments of your session should now be related and progress to a desired goal or 'theme' for the session. At this age, the players are typically ready for games and activities that help them learn to play the ball sideways and backwards. Avoid overloading the players with too much information at one time. Small sound bites are best. There is still a very heavy learning curve. It is okay to repeat themes or lesson plans from a few weeks ago. You may begin to see a larger gap in the technical ability levels in your team. Keep your explanations of the activities as short as possible...the kids want to play! They also are beginning to appreciate and enjoy playing the game skillfully. They love the latest moves and tricks...and showing them to their fellow teammates! Resources and Supporting Information Primer for the Parent Coach U.S. Youth Soccer Best Practices for Coaching Soccer in the United States U.S. Soccer P a g e 4

Youth Module II Characteristics of U12 Children Lengthened attention span compared to the U10 player Far more team orientated and aware of identification to their team, their school, etc. This leads to rivalries with other teams and organizations Able to focus attention for longer periods of time Psychologically becoming more firm, however, popularity influences self esteem Boys and girls beginning to developing separately, girls at a faster pace Gross and fine motor skills continue to be more refined. Beginning to develop abilities to sustain complex coordinated skill sequences As with U10, prefer balls and equipment with team or brand identification Begins to think in abstract terms and can address 'what if' scenarios Begins to spend more time with friends and less time with parents Implications for Coaching Soccer Training Sessions U12 Size 4 ball Individual ball work and small group activities Introduction of larger field concepts 60 minutes to 90 minutes each 2 training sessions plus 1 game per week 4 segments of 15-20 minutes each Lesson plans activities are now related and progressional Last portion of the session should be set aside for free play with minimal or no coaching P a g e 5

No Lines...No Laps...No Lectures. Youth Module II Begin to incorporate a structured WARM UP. However, do not do so by doing a lap of the field and static stretching. Instead, get right into light movement activities and spend time with the ball. Dynamic stretching should now be incorporated into the session. As with U10, have everyone involved with a ball as much as possible. Individual ball work or small sided sessions. The small numbers allow the players to gain critical practice at 1v1 or 2v1 situations. These are the building blocks of the game. As with U10, the segments of your session should now be related and progress to a desired goal or 'theme' for the session. Conceptually, the players are further developed for games and activities that help them learn to play the ball sideways and backwards. As with U10, avoid overloading the players with too much information at one time. Small sound bites are best. More able to keep track of things happening on the field of play. Increased ability to stay focused and begin to take responsibility for their decisions on the field. There is still a very heavy learning curve. It is okay to repeat themes or lesson plans from a few weeks ago. Teach according to principles of the game rather than positions on the field. You will see a larger gap in the technical and physical ability levels in your team. Awkward growth spurts are prevalent. You will begin to see players that may be contrary and oppositional to authority figures (parents, teachers, coach, team manager, etc.) They also are beginning to appreciate and enjoy playing the game skillfully. They love the latest moves and tricks...and showing them to their fellow teammates! Resources and Supporting Information Primer for the Parent Coach U.S. Youth Soccer Best Practices for Coaching Soccer in the United States U.S. Soccer P a g e 6

Author: Gordon Henderson Ohio South Youth Soccer Lesson Plan Topic: Dribbling Age Group: U10 Activity Name Description Diagram Coaching Points Warm Up: Freeze! Organization: Every player has a ball. Space: 20yd X 20yd square. Segment: Free movement dribbling the ball inside the square. When the coach shouts 'Freeze' players should stop the ball with whatever part of the foot they can...and 'freeze' in whatever body position they are in. Emphasis should be on using both feet and inside and outside of the foot when dribbling...and changing direction. A key point in 'keeping the ball close' is ensuring the body is slightly forward (not upright or backward...this keeps the weight forward). Also, the chest (or core of the body) should be over the ball if possible...this keeps the ball close to the body. "Is it easier to dribble when the ball is close to you or further away?" "Can you dribble with your instep...is your ankle floppy or like a club?...toes pointing in or out?" "How do you change direction and keep control of the ball...show me!" 2 nd Activity Pac Man Organization: Designate 2 players to be a defender (put pinnies on the defenders). Every other player has a ball Space: 20yd X 20yd square Segment: Players with the ball dribble freely in the defined space. They are encouraged to freely dribble and change direction to keep away from the PAC MEN. PAC MEN try to win the ball. If successful, give the ball back. Count how many balls they win in a defined time period. Switch out PAC MEN. To begin with, the PAC MEN (defenders) may only walk...progress to normal running speed. It is okay for the coach to join in here...players always like beating the coach! Emphasis should be on using both feet and inside and outside of the foot when dribbling...and changing direction. A key point in 'keeping the ball close' is ensuring the body is slightly forward (not upright or backward...this keeps the weight forward). Also, the chest (or core of the body) should be over the ball if possible...this keeps the ball close to the body. The added element of a moving defender usually creates a lack of composure. Encourage close control and changing direction with the ball. Don't panic!

Author: Gordon Henderson Ohio South Youth Soccer Lesson Plan Topic: Dribbling Age Group: U10 Activity Name Description Diagram Coaching Points 3 rd Activity Zone Soccer Organization: Two teams with pinnies. Coach at mid point with a supply of balls. Two small goals at each end (5 yds wide). Split the players into the three zones. Space: 45yds x 25 yds grid; split into three 15 yd zones Even though this segment has an emphasis on dribbling...under control...at speed...changing direction, there still has to be a basic understanding of 'When to Dribble and When to Pass'. The pass sometimes creates the dribbling opportunity! 4 th Activity 6 v 6 Game Segment: Objective is to try and score in either of the 2 goals in the 'end zone'. Coach passes in a ball to any zone. The only way a player can leave their zone is to dribble into the next zone. If they lose the ball, they must return to their zone. The player has the choice to pass the ball to retain possession or try and dribble to the next zone. If ball goes out of bounds, another ball is passed in by the coach. Keep playing until the supply of balls is used up. At that point, have the players retrieve all balls and continue segment. Play until a time period has expired or a set number of goals have been scored. Organization: Two teams with different color pinnies Space: As needed Segment: Just Let Em' Play! (2 nd half of segment) Be quiet...do not coach...let them figure it out for themselves 1v1 is the ideal time to dribble! 1v2 or 1v3...not so good. If more than 1 player is defending you...a player must be open somewhere! Can you find them with a pass? "Can you dribble and do a 'give and go' with another player?" "Do you always need to pass the ball forward...can you think of a time that it might be better to pass back to help you go forward on the dribble?" Be aware of previous coaching points and incorporate into this segment. Don't over coach the technical errors. During natural stoppages in play (Ball out of bounds, free kicks, etc.) begin to coach some of the 'space' issues (who is closer who is further away) and how that may help or hinder the dribble. Continue to encourage players to dribble in such a way they can control the ball...encourage the instep and not the inside of the foot...more of a natural running movement.

Author: Vince Ganzberg National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Receiving Lofted Balls DOC-Indiana Lesson Plan Age: U-10 Activity Name Description Diagram Purpose/Coaching Points 1 Receiving Square Half the group with balls, half without. Player without ball runs to player on outside of square with a ball. Player with ball tosses ball underhand to player who is running toward them. Inside player receives ball with a designated part of the body and then passes it back. Then they repeat it by receiving a ball from someone new. 1. First touch and importance of cushioning ball 2. Get in line with the ball 3. Select controlling surface early 4. Relax body part at impact. 2 Receiving Line Passer using throw-in technique throws ball to a player ahead of them in the opposite line. After throwing the ball, they run towards the receiving player to simulate pressure, but don t take the ball away. After simulated pressure, then run to the back of the opposite line. Receiving player brings ball down and then dribbles to the line across and leaves the ball for the first player in the opposite line to repeat. 1. First touch and importance of cushioning ball 2. Get in line with the ball 3. Select controlling surface early 4. Relax body part at impact. 5. First touch sets up your second touch. 6. Ball should come down no farther than a legs length away.

Author: Vince Ganzberg National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Receiving Lofted Balls DOC-Indiana Lesson Plan Age: U-10 3 Box to Box 4 6v6 (4v2 in each half) 5 6v6 match Two players per team. Two boxes are made approximately 20-30 yards apart. There is a player from each team in one box. One team starts the game. When the ball is played to the other box, the attacking team gets the opportunity to get the first touch. Then they have to dribble outside of the box (square) to receive a point. The defending player is outside the box and has to wait until the attacking player gets the first touch. The defending player tries to win the ball after the first touch has been made. If the attacking player is successful in bringing the ball down and dribbling outside of the square then they keep it. If the defending player wins the ball after the first touch, then they become the attacking team. Coach may have to allow serving players to toss ball in air and then strike it to their teammate in opposite box. Play 4v2 in each half. Field is 50 x 30 yards with no one allowed over half line. Four players from each team go into their defensive half of the field. The other two players go into the attacking half. The defending players can only defend with two. The other two defending players retreat back to their goal until possession is retained or the attacking team scores. Could make a restriction that the ball played into other half has to be in the air. Session should end with a 6v6 match played on a field that is 50 x 30 or 60 x 40. 1. First touch and importance of cushioning ball 2. Get in line with the ball 3. Select controlling surface early 4. Relax body part at impact. 5. Take first touch away from where pressure is coming from. 1. First touch and importance of cushioning ball 2. Get in line with the ball 3. Select controlling surface early 4. Relax body part at impact. 5. Take first touch away from where pressure is coming from. Control made easier by early selection, getting in line of flight of the ball, and relaxing body part at impact.

Author: Ian Barker National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Tackling Lesson Plan Age: U10 1 2 3 4 Activity Name Description Diagram Purpose/Coaching Points Rehearsal 1 vs. 1 Faced Up 1 vs. 1 From Recovery 2 vs. 2 Decisions Have 2 players stand 2-3 steps on either side of the ball. On command both players should squarely step to address and block the ball. 1 vs. 1 to goal. Coach serves ball to slightly favor one player. If you have 10+ players use 2 grids. 1 vs. 1 to goal. (As above but ) Players attack goal they start at. Defender must recover goal side. 2 vs. 2 to goal. Restarts are passed in. Play 3-4 minute sets with good rest. 10x12 X X O X O O Coach 10x12 X X O. X O O Coach 15x20 O O. X X Players rehearse safely a block tackle. Inside of foot to ball. Get weight into the tackle. Do not stretch or go to ground. Close to the ball. Maintain a good distance to tackle and recover. Get body behind tackle. Tackle without crossing feet. Recover goal side. Do not tackle from behind. Face up to opponent. Tackle firmly with closest foot. Defender not on ball must be ready to close. Close as ball is traveling. Ensure proper tacking technique. 5 6 vs. 6 The Game 6 vs. 6 including keepers. No conditions on play. Be prepared to stop 2-3 times in 15 minutes to review topic. 40x50 X O GK X X X O O O GK X O All tackles should be made from the front. Avoid going to ground. Tackle with either foot as situation demands. Do not reach; stay compact.

Author: Peter McGahey National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Possession Lesson Plan Age: Under 10 1 2 Activity Name Description Diagram Purpose/Coaching Points Sequence Order Passing COMBAT 1). Divide group into 3 groups of 4 players. 2). Have each group number themselves 1 through 4 3). Object is for the groups to pass through the sequence while moving through out the field Variations: - Race through the sequence. 1 st team to complete order sits down - Go backwards through the order. 4..3..2..1 1). Divide the group into two teams of 6 each team wearing a different color. 2). Organize all the balls in one area and have the players form. Two lines on either side of the balls. 3). Coach will toss out a ball and say a color. - If the coach says nothing both teams send out 3 players. - If the coach calls out a specific team color that team sends out 3 players while the other team only send out 2 4). Object once the ball is tossed out is to get the ball back to the coach. Variations: - Change the number of players who go out to play - Coach can change their position. There by changing the location of the target Coach & Balls 1). Instant Activity. 2). Stimulate the players for the practice to come both mentally and physically. 3). Work on moving off the ball. 4). Passing Technique 1). Having the players build (pass) the ball toward a target and being rewarded for doing this under control 2). Players off the ball - working on making the field bigger when your team has the ball. 3). Players off the ball working on moving into a place where the person on the ball can see them and there is a clear path for the ball to travel to them. 4). Player on the ball making good decisions on where the ball should go toward the target/objective and away from the defenders 5). Quality of passing making your teammate look good with your pass

Author: Peter McGahey National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Possession Lesson Plan Age: Under 10 3 4 4 v 4 to targets 6 v 6 w/ GK 1). Divide the group into two teams of 6 each team wearing a different color. 2). Set-up a field that is wider than it is long with three small goals on each end line. 3). Play 4 v 4 on the field with two players from each team standing behind the end line that their team is attacking. 4). Scoring: - +1 point for any ball passed through small goal - +5 points for any ball passed through small and received by your teammate. Hints: Players behind the end line can move and cover behind any of the 3 goals that the chose. 1). Divide the group into two teams of 6 each team wearing a different color. 2). Play 6 v 6. 5 Field Players and 1 Goalkeeper for each team. 3). Scoring: - + 1 for any goal 4). All regular rules apply Field size: 45 yards long by 35 yards wide with appropriate size goal on the end line (6 by 12). Same as Above except now the learning environment is looking more like the game. Final part of practice. MUST look like the game.

Author: Gordon Henderson Ohio South Youth Soccer Lesson Plan Topic: Possession into Attack Age Group: U12 Activity Name Description Diagram Coaching Points Warm Up: 2 Teams + 4 2 nd Activity End Zone Game (+2) Organization: 2 teams of even numbers plus 4 players on outside of grid one on each side. Players outside of grid have unlimited movement on 'their' side. Space: 40yds x 20yds. Adjust grid space according to skill level of players. Lower skilled players = bigger space (Gives more time on the ball) Higher skilled players = smaller space (Gives less time on the ball) Segment: Simple possession game using the players on the outside as link players to assist with possession. Players in the grid and outside have unlimited touches. Encourage all players to receive the ball in such a way that they can see as much of the grid at all times. Organization: Play 4v4(+2) up to 7v7(+2) with an end zone marked at end approx. 10 yds deep. The (+2) players play for whoever is in possession of the ball (designate by different color pinnies) Space: 40yds x 20yds to a maximum of 50yds x 30yds (depending on number of players) What parts of the foot can you use to pass?... Inside? Outside? Left? Right? Most of the time we want the ball played on the ground can you think of a time when the ball should be played in the air? Outside players...now you have 2 touches only!...1 touch only! If someone is passing the ball to you, should you have your hips only facing them or open them so you can see as much of the field as possible? Where your hips face...your eyes will follow... Encourage possession by sometimes passing sometimes dribbling... sometimes short passing sometimes a longer pass... Why is it better for everyone not to be so close to the ball? What do I create when I move further from the ball? Segment: 1 point for dribbling into the end zone 2 points for passing to a teammate running into the end zone and controlling the ball. Once a team scores, they do not stop...immediately begin to attack the other end zone! Are there times I need to dribble with the ball? When you received that ball, could you see the field? How do you need to turn your body to both see both the field and receive the ball? Which foot?

Author: Gordon Henderson Ohio South Youth Soccer Lesson Plan Topic: Possession into Attack Age Group: U12 Activity Name Description Diagram Coaching Points 3 rd Activity To One Goal Organization: Two teams with different color pinnies. One goalkeeper. Attacking team has 2 more players (6v4, 7v5, etc.) Space: Penalty box to half way line (length) Penalty box (width) Segment: The attacking team plays to the goal with the goalkeeper. The defending team counter attacks to 2 small sided goals (5yds in width) When is a good time to dribble? When do you pass short? When do you play a longer pass? Make sure your ankle is not 'floppy' when you pass the ball! If someone is passing from your left let the ball go across your body and control with the inside of your right foot...(easier to control ball than outside of the foot) If someone is passing from your right let the ball go across your body and control with the inside of your left foot... 4 th Activity Depending on numbers... 6 V6 Game - 8 V 8 Game (2 goalkeepers) Organization: Two teams with different color pinnies Space: 2/3rds field to full field Segment: Lots of encouragement and praise (1 st half of segment) Just Let Em' Play! (2 nd half of segment) Be quiet...do not coach...let them figure it out for themselves Make sure you don't just look at the ball you won't see the other players coming! Be aware of previous coaching points and incorporate into this segment. Don't over coach the technical errors. During natural stoppages in play (ball out of bounds) begin to coach some of the 'space' issues (who is closer to the ball who is further away) Continue to encourage players to receive the ball in such a way that they can see as much of the field of play as possible "Open your hips"

Author: Sam Snow National Youth License Topic: Finishing Lesson Plan Age: U12 Activity Name Description Diagram Purpose/Coaching Points 1 Game with Many Goals Two teams of five. Use a 50 x 40 grid with six goals made with either cones or corner flags. Both teams attempt to kick the ball with inside of foot through one of the goals and score, or, if the other team is in possession, to avoid conceding goals. A goal is scored when the ball crosses the goal line between the flag posts and reaches a member of the same team. A shot passing above the posts does not count. Goals may be scored from either side of the goals. The game carries on without pause after a score. Consecutive scores through the same goal are not allowed. Placement of the plant foot Knees bent Kicking foot level with the ground Lock ankle & strike w/the arch of the foot 2 No Bodily Contact 4 v 4 in a 40 x 25 grid with two hockey size goals. No proper goalkeepers. One player passing the ball to another starts the game. Each team attacks the opponent s half, trying to score goals. The defending team may not defend in the normal manner. Only the path of the attacker or ball may be blocked. Encourage a variety of shooting techniques since there is little pressure from the opponent Eyes on the ball w/mental focus

Author: Sam Snow National Youth License Topic: Finishing Lesson Plan Age: U12 3 Game with three Neutrals Two teams of four plus three neutral players in a 40 x 25 grid with two hockey size goals. No proper goalkeepers. Each team attempts to attack its opponents half to score goals. The neutral players are always on the side of the attackers to give them numerical superiority. The opposition is awarded the ball after a successful interception. Work on shots from combination play layoffs, wall passes, dummies, etc. 4 Shooting with Two Goals Two teams of 4 to 5 players in a double penalty area space with two normal goals and a centerline marked. Each team must shoot goals from inside its own half. The players in possession try to work themselves into a good shooting position while the opposition tries to block shots. 5 Passing Back to Shoot Two teams of four and one neutral goalkeeper on half the pitch with one normal goal. One team attacks trying to score goals, or, having lost the ball, to avoid conceding goals. The goalkeeper begins the game by throwing the ball out to a player in his team. If he is a good position he may shoot immediately. If not, the ball may be passed directly to a teammate. Three passes are the limit. No player may cross the centerline. Balls out of play are kicked in. The keeper starts the game with an impartially taken goal kick. A goal may be scored only after a pass back out of the penalty area. All players may use the penalty area. Shots from inside the penalty area are penalized by an indirect free kick. No offside, but corners and throw-ins are taken. If the keeper gathers the ball, or if it goes over the goal line, the game is restarted with a goal kick. If a goal is scored, a goal kick is also taken. Shooting while shielding Spinning off a mark & shooting How to draw the keeper & a defender to open up back post for a teammate Support runs to finish

Author: Sam Snow National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Spatial Awareness Lesson Plan Age: U12 Activity Name Description Diagram Purpose/Coaching Points 1. WARM-UP: PAINT THE GRASS Pairs with one ball go into a 10-yard by 15- yard grid. Three rounds with a stretch between each round. The coach has the watch and the players have thirty seconds to use the ball as a paint brush and paint (via passing) as much of the grass in the grid as they can. 10 yds. X. X 15 yds. The intent is to get the players to move, work on passing and receiving techniques, to communicate and solve problems together. 2. SEQUENCE PASSING The players organize All passing is done on the move, no standing themselves into groups allowed. Divide into two or three groups with of five to seven. all groups using the same field. The groups Players are numbered have to play through, over and around each 1-5(7) and must pass in other, which increases the demand on vision that sequence, 1 to 2, and communication and off the ball and 2 to 3 and so on movement. with 5(7) passing to 1. VARIATIONS: 1. Reduce the playing area to half of the original size. 2. Each group starts with one ball and once they have the hang of it add a second ball, which increases the tempo of the session. A player should not get caught with two balls. X1. O5 X4 X2 O3 X3 O2 O4 X5 The intent is to promote vision and communication between the players without the pressure of opponents. The activity will cause the players to work on the techniques of passing and receiving. Rhythm of play and timing of support runs will improve. Off the ball players must get into the field of vision of the teammate with the ball. A dynamic run should be made to show for the ball.

Author: Sam Snow National Youth Certificate Course To Topic: Spatial Awareness Lesson Plan Age: U12 3. CROSSING GAME The players should Players can score from either side of the goal organize themselves and the game doesn t stop after a goal is into groups of four to scored. Play a normal 4v4 match except for play 4v4. The training goals being scored from either side of the goal. grid is 40 yards long by Because of the angled goals there will be more 30 yards wide. Corner crosses into areas in front of the goalmouth. flags or tall cones Many goals can be scored under match should be used for conditions in a short time period. Teamwork goals and disc cones to in preparation of attack and defense will mark the corners of the improve. grid. The goals are set up diagonally from one another and ten yards in from the goal line. 40 yds. X1 O2 X2 30 yds. O3 X4.O1 X3 O4 This activity promotes group movement (tactic) and involves transition. The techniques of dribbling, passing, receiving, shooting, heading, tackling and crossing will have the chance to emerge. As a bonus fitness will also improve in a fun and competitive fashion.

Author: Sam Snow National Youth Certificate Course To Topic: Spatial Awareness Lesson Plan Age: U12 4. THREE TEAM GAME The players organize Divide the field into thirds-defensive, midfield themselves into three and attacking. Place each group (X, Z & O) groups of five plus a into a third. The group Z in the midfield third goalkeeper in each has the ball. Group Z chooses one goal to goal. Use a regulation attack and plays against the group X in that field and goals for the third. The group O at the other end is resting. age group. Each group Only the group in possession of the ball may keeps track of their own enter the midfield third. If group Z scores they score. Goalkeepers act keep the ball, go back to the midfield third and as their own team. attack the group O goal. If the defending group X wins the ball and gets it into the midfield third then group Z stays in the final third and group X now attacks against group O. X K X X X O X Z Z Z Z Z O O O K O This is a complex environment and will require the highest level of concentration from the players. It will take them awhile to get the hang of it, so be patient. While this is a match related activity, it may be the most complex activity in this training session. Encourage one and two touch passing in the midfield third to change the point of attack and to get targets forward of the ball. A multitude of techniques, offensive and defensive tactics can be taught in this activity. The coach should focus in this lesson on creating space.

Author: Sam Snow National Youth Certificate Course To Topic: Spatial Awareness Lesson Plan Age: U12 5. ALL UP & ALL BACK Play a full field For a goal to count all field players of match of 8v8. the attacking team must be over the Follow the US halfway line. If any of the field players Youth Soccer rules are not over the halfway line and in the for 8v8 U12 soccer. opponent s half of the field then the Use a goal does not count and a goal kick painted/chalked line follows. Let them play under this or small disc cones condition until it is obvious they all to mark the halfway understand it. Then if the coach feels line. they are ready the second condition can be added to the game. When a goal is scored against the defending team they must have all of their players in their half of the field or the goal counts double. K O O O O O O O X X X X X X X K The intent of these conditions is to work on team communication, off the ball runs, vision, fitness and most importantly compactness. COOL-DOWN

Author: Jacob Daniel National Youth Certificate Course Topic: Heading To Clear Lesson Plan Age: U12 Activity Name Description Diagram Purpose/Coaching Points 1. WARM-UP Players organize themselves into groups of three. Set up two cones 40 yards apart. One player goes in between the two cones to be the server (1). One of the two outside players (2) runs around the nearest cone and as soon as player (2) turns around the cone the server throws the ball in the air to the runner. Player (2) heads the ball to the far outside player (3). Player (3) heads the ball back to the server (1) runs around the nearest cone and the procedure is repeated in the opposite direction. P2 2 40 yds. S1 1 P3 3 Eyes on the ball. Neck stiff. Attack the ball and run through it. Head the lower half of the ball for height and distance.

Author: Jacob Daniel National Youth Certificate Course To Topic: Heading To Clear Lesson Plan Age: U12 2. CROSSES TO FINISH Use the final third of A winger and a midfielder at each flank and the age appropriate the balls are with the wingers. Each defensive field. Four defenders pair starts on the edge of the penalty area and and a goalkeeper. clears four crosses in each turn. Defenders take turns in Sequence of crosses: pairs. 1. Right-winger passes back to the midfielder who crosses towards the penalty arc (#1). 2. Right-winger passes back to the midfielder who sends a through ball. The winger chases the ball and crosses toward the penalty spot (#2). Defenders turn and run into the penalty area to defend the cross. Process repeats from the left side and then the two defenders switch. Progress by adding a forward (2v1) and then add a second forward (2v2). K D 2 D 2 D X 1 X Attack the ball. Head early; don t allow the ball to bounce. Head high and wide in the direction you are facing. Do not flick the ball into dangerous areas. Concede a corner if you must. If the keeper calls for the ball and comes out, cover for the keeper by running to the goal line. After the ball is cleared, sprint out.

Author: Jacob Daniel National Youth Certificate Course To Topic: Heading To Clear Lesson Plan Age: U12 3. NEUTRAL ZONE Two neutral players in zones (5 yards in from the touchline) on the flank. Only neutral players are allowed in the flank zones. 4v4 to 6v6 in the center area. A goal may be scored only after a neutral player has crossed the ball. Play a match with neutral zones on the flanks in order to get in good crosses. Defensive headers should try to clear the ball into one of the neutral zones. To maintain realism ask the neutral players to combine and execute a typical flank sequence (overlap, wall pass, etc.) before crossing the ball. Players in the center area play a normal soccer game except they are not allowed into the neutral zones. Progress by lifting the restriction. N K N O O X X O X O N X O N X K Communicate marking assignment early and clearly. Send one defender to the near post to block the cross from entering the goal area. Mark the other forwards by keeping goal-side of them. 4. 6 VS. 6 MATCH Play a match according to the US Youth Soccer rules for U12. A normal match except any defensive header earns a point. 5. COOL-DOWN TEAM KNOTS The players organize On the coach s signal the players close their themselves into groups eyes and reach into the center of the circle to of six. Each group hold other players hands. When they open stands in a circle facing their eyes they should be in a big human knot. one another. Only hand-to-hand positions are allowed. Players attempt to unravel themselves without letting go. US Youth Soccer regulation U12 field and goal. The task is to make a circle with everyone still holding hands. Someone will take charge and become the leader giving instructions. After a session on heading for U12 players this will be a good change of pace. Guide the players on recognizing when to head the ball for a defensive clearance. Flexibility and balance. Group cooperation. Problem solving skills. Leadership development.

Author: Ohio South Youth Soccer Lesson Plan Topic: Age Group: Activity Name Description Diagram Coaching Points Organization: Warm Up: Space: Segment: 2 nd Activity Organization: Space: Segment:

Author: Ohio South Youth Soccer Lesson Plan Topic: Age Group: Activity Name Description Diagram Coaching Points 3 rd Activity Organization: Space: Segment: 4 th Activity Game Organization: Two teams with different color pinnies. Space: As needed. Segment: Just Let Em' Play! (2 nd half of segment) Be quiet...do not coach...let them figure it out for themselves. Be aware of previous coaching points and incorporate into this segment. Don't over coach the technical errors. Coach during natural stoppages in play (ball out of bounds, free kick, etc.)

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Youth Module II U10 Modified Rules US Youth Soccer Official Under 10 Playing Recommendations US Youth Soccer recommended modifications to the FIFA Laws of the Game. FIFA Laws of the Game can be found at www.ussoccer.com/referees. Please also note the U10 addendum and appendix. Law 1 The Field of Play Dimensions: The field of play must be rectangular. The length of the touchline must be greater than the length of the goal line. Length: minimum 45 yards maximum 60 yards Width: minimum 35 yards maximum 45 yards Field Markings: Distinctive lines not more than (5) inches wide. The field of play is divided into two halves by a halfway line. The center mark is indicated at the midpoint of the halfway line. The center mark is indicated at the midpoint of the halfway line. A circle with a radius of eight (8) yards is marked around it. The Goal Area: Conform to FIFA. The Penalty Area: A penalty area is defined at each end of the field as follows: Two lines are drawn at right angles to the goal line, ten (10) yards from the inside of each goalpost. These lines extend into the field of play for a distance of ten (10) yards and are joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal line. The area bounded by these lines and the goal line is the penalty area. Within each penalty area, a penalty mark is made eight (8) yards from the midpoint between the goalposts and equidistant to them. An arc of a circle within a radius of eight (8) yards from each penalty mark is drawn outside the penalty area. Flag posts: Conform to FIFA. The Corner Arc: Conform to FIFA. Goals: Goals must be placed on the center of each goal line. They consist of two upright posts equidistant from the corners and joined at the top by a horizontal crossbar. The recommended distance between the posts is eighteen (18) feet and the distance from the lower edge of the crossbar to the ground is six (6) feet. Law 2 The Ball: Size four (4). P a g e 28

Youth Module II Law 3 The Number of Players: A match is played by two teams, each consisting of not more than six players, one of whom is the goalkeeper. A match may not start if either team consists of fewer than five players. Substitutions: At any stoppage of play and unlimited. Playing time: Each player SHALL play a minimum of 50% of the total playing time. Teams and matches may be coed. Law 4 The Players Equipment: Conform to FIFA. Non-uniform clothing is allowed based on weather conditions, but uniforms must still distinguish teams. Law 5 The Referee: Registered referee, especially Grade 9 or parent/coach or assistant coach. All rule infringements shall be briefly explained to the offending player. Law 6 The Assistant Referees: Not required. May use club linesmen if desired. Law 7 The Duration of the Match: Conform to FIFA with the exception of the match being divided into two (2) equal halves of twenty-five (25) minute each. There shall be a half-time interval of five (5) minutes. Law 8 The Start and Restart of Play: Conform to FIFA, with the exception of the opponents of the team taking the kick-off are at least eight (8) yards from the ball until it is in play. Law 9 The Ball In and Out of Play: Conform to FIFA. Law 10 The Method of Scoring: Conform to FIFA. Law 11 Offside: None. Law 12 Fouls and Misconduct: Conform to FIFA with the exception that an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team at the center spot on the halfway line if a goalkeeper punts or dropkicks the ball in the air from his/her penalty area into the opponents penalty area. Law 13 Free Kicks: Conform to FIFA with the exception that all kicks are direct and all opponents are at least eight (8) yards from the ball until it is in play. Law 14 The Penalty Kick: Conform to FIFA with the exception that the penalty mark is made eight (8) yards from the midpoint between the goalposts and equidistant to them. Law 15 The Throw-In: Conform to FIFA. P a g e 29

Law 16 The Goal Kick: Conform to FIFA. Youth Module II Law 17 The Corner Kick: Conform to FIFA with the exception that opponents must remain at least eight (8) yards from the ball until it is in play. P a g e 30

Youth Module II U10 ADDENDUM MODIFIED RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE GAME FOR U10 Law 1 The Field of Play: The dimensions are smaller to accommodate the six-versus-six game and are appropriate for the movement capabilities of eight- and nine-year-old children. These adjusted dimensions provide more practical space allowing players to be successful. Field Markings: The penalty area is marked, but is smaller than the adult field size penalty area. The center circle is two yards smaller in radius than the adult size field marking. All other markings are per FIFA. Goals: The goal, 6 x 18 feet, is the same for the U10 and U12 age groups. By using the same size goal for both age groups, clubs will have to buy fewer goals. Law 2 The Ball: Must be a size four. The smaller ball is lighter and more easily kicked, received, dribbled and passed. Law 3 The Number of Players: The six-a-side game now includes the goalkeeper. The smaller number of field players will provide the opportunity for the children to further develop their physical and technical abilities. These are valuable traits for all soccer players to develop. With fewer players on the field each child has an increased number of contacts with the ball and has more actual playing time. Additionally the players will be required to make more decisions and experience repeating game situations more frequently. The work rate and involvement of players will be more consistent. While learning both offense and defense, players will become well rounded and will understand more readily the roles and importance of teammates. The need for the players to make the mental and physical transition from offense to defense and vice-versa will be enhanced in this playing environment. The minimum number of players to begin a match for preteen players in SSG should be one (1) less than the number required on the field. For U12, the minimum will be seven (7) and for U10 the minimum will be five (5). There should not be a minimum for U8 and U6 and clubs, administrators, coaches and referees should be encouraged to allow players from the team with sufficient numbers to loan a player or two to the team that is short players and then PLAY. Law 5 The Referee: As per FIFA. Clubs are urged to use this age group as a field training opportunity for Grade 9 P a g e 31

Youth Module II Recreational Referees. All rule infringements shall be briefly explained to the offending player. Law 6 The Assistant Referees: Use club linesmen. Implement here the referee-in training program. Law 7 The Duration of the Match: As per FIFA with the exception of the halves being 25 minutes each. Law 8 The Start and Restart of Play: As per FIFA. The distance the defending players must be away from the ball until it is kicked is the same as the radius of the center circle. Law 10 Goal Scored: shall conform to FIFA and the sections concerning Winning Team and Competition Rules shall conform to US Youth Soccer guidelines. Law 11 Offside: there shall be no offside called during these games. Law 12 The rule on the goalkeeper s distribution still allows for the ball to be punted the entire length of the field; it just cannot go directly into the opponents penalty area. Law 13 Free Kicks: per FIFA. The distance the defending players must be away from the ball until it is kicked is the same as the radius of the center circle. Law 14 The Penalty Kick: conform to FIFA with the exceptions that the penalty mark is ten yards from the center of the goal line and that players other than the kicker and defending goalkeeper are at least eight yards from the penalty mark. The distance of eight yards conforms to the radius of the center circle. The distance of ten yards from the center of the goalmouth for the penalty mark fits within the reduced dimensions of the penalty area and is a reasonable distance for the kick. Law 17 The Corner Kick: As per FIFA. The distance the defending players must be away from the ball until it is kicked is the same as the radius of the center circle. P a g e 32

Youth Module II Roster Size: Under the single field method the recommended minimum roster size is nine players and the maximum roster size is eleven players. Under the dual field method the recommended minimum roster size is fourteen players and the maximum roster size is sixteen players. This range of roster sizes allows for a club to use either the single field or dual field set up. Split-Field Model: See appendix for options. Playing Time: A minimum of at least 50% playing time is required. No score or standings should be kept. ADVANTAGES OF PLAYING SMALL SIDED GAMES More time with the coach Energetic workouts due to playing both offense and defense More efficient use of field space Matches can be played simultaneously across a full size field Children are physically more efficient in smaller space Children are actively involved for a longer period of time It takes less time to score a goal or advance to goal Greater success rate for the players US Youth Soccer Recommendations Opposing coaches, players and parents should shake hands after each match. Parent/coaches, non-participating players and spectators should be there to enjoy and encourage the activity of the youngsters. Spectator and team benches should be on opposite sides of the field. No alcoholic beverages or tobacco products will be consumed or allowed near the playing area. No slide tackles to be allowed in this age group. Coaches of U10 teams should attend the U10/U12 Youth Module coaching course and the Grade 9 referee course. P a g e 33

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Youth Module II U12 Modified Rules US Youth Soccer Official Under 12 Playing Recommendations US Youth Soccer recommended modifications to the FIFA Laws of the Game. FIFA Laws of the Law 1 The Field of Play Game can be found at www.ussoccer.com/referees. Please note the U12 addendum and appendix. Dimensions: The field of play must be rectangular. The length of the touchline must be greater than the length of the goal line. Length: minimum 70 yards maximum 80 yards Width: minimum 45 yards maximum 55 yards Field Markings: Distinctive lines not more than (5) inches wide. The field of play is divided into two halves by a halfway line. The center mark is indicated at the midpoint of the halfway line. The center mark is indicated at the midpoint of the halfway line. A circle with a radius of eight (8) yards is marked around it. The Goal Area: Conform to FIFA. The Penalty Area: A penalty area is defined at each end of the field as follows: Two lines are drawn at right angles to the goal line, Fourteen (14) yards from the inside of each goalpost. These lines extend into the field of play for a distance of fourteen (14) yards and are joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal line. The area bounded by these lines and the goal line is the penalty area. Within each penalty area, a penalty mark is made ten (10) yards from the midpoint between the goalposts and equidistant to them. An arc of a circle within a radius of eight (8) yards from each penalty mark is drawn outside the penalty area. Flag posts: Conform to FIFA. The Corner Arc: Conform to FIFA. Goals: Goals must be placed on the center of each goal line. They consist of two upright posts equidistant from the corners and joined at the top by a horizontal crossbar. The recommended distance between the posts is eighteen (18) feet and the distance from the lower edge of the crossbar to the ground is six (6) feet. Law 2 The Ball: Size four (4). P a g e 36

Youth Module II Law 3 The Number of Players: A match is played by two teams, each consisting of not more than eight players, one of whom is the goalkeeper. A match may not start if either team consists of fewer than seven players. Substitutions: At any stoppage of play and unlimited. Law 4 The Players Equipment: Conform to FIFA. Non-uniform clothing is allowed based on weather conditions, but uniforms must still distinguish teams. Law 5 The Referee: Registered referee. Law 6 The Assistant Referee: Use U.S.S.F. registered referees or club linesmen/women. Law 7 The Duration of the Match: Conform to FIFA with the exception of the match being divided into two (2) halves of thirty (30) minutes each. There shall be a half-time interval of five (5) minutes. Law 8 The Start and Restart of Play: Conform to FIFA with the exception that opponents of the team taking the kick-off are at least eight (8) yards from the ball until it is in play. Law 9 The Ball In and Out of Play: Conform to FIFA. Law 10 The Method of Scoring: Conform to FIFA. Law 11 Offside: Conform to FIFA. Law 12 Fouls and Misconduct: Conform to FIFA with the exception that an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team at the center spot on the halfway line if a goalkeeper punts or dropkicks the ball in the air from his/her penalty area into the opponents penalty area. Law 13 Free Kicks: Conform to FIFA with the exception that opponents are at least eight (8) yards from the ball. Law 14 The Penalty Kick: Conform to FIFA with the exceptions that the penalty mark is at ten yards and that players other than the kicker and defending goalkeeper are at least eight (8) yards from the penalty mark. Law 15 The Throw-In: Conform to FIFA. Law 16 The Goal Kick: Conform to FIFA. Law 17 The Corner Kick: Conform to FIFA with the exception that opponents remain at least eight (8) yards away from the ball until it is in play. P a g e 37

Youth Module II U12 ADDENDUM MODIFIED RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE GAME FOR U12 Law 1 The Field of Play: The dimensions are smaller to accommodate the eight-versus-eight game and are appropriate for the movement capabilities of ten- and eleven-year-old children. These adjusted dimensions provide more practical space allowing players to be successful. Field Markings: As per FIFA with the exception of the center circle, penalty area, penalty mark and penalty arc. Goals: The goal, 6 x 18 feet, is the same for the U10 and U12 age groups. By using the same size goal for both age groups, clubs will have to buy fewer goals. Law 2 The Ball: Must be a size four. The smaller ball is lighter and more easily kicked, received, headed, dribbled, caught, thrown and passed. Law 3 The Number of Players: The eight-a-side game includes the goalkeeper. The smaller number of field players will provide the opportunity for the children to further develop their physical and technical abilities. These are valuable traits for all soccer players to develop. With fewer players on the field each child has an increased number of contacts with the ball and has more actual playing time. Additionally the players will be required to make more decisions and experience repeating game situations frequently. The work rate and involvement of players will be more consistent. While learning both offense and defense, players will become well rounded and will understand more readily the roles and importance of teammates. The smaller field dimensions and number of players on the field of play will require more concentration on transition, which is a vitally important tactical concept for the players to learn. The minimum number of players to begin a match for preteen players in SSG should be one (1) less than the number required on the field. For U12, the minimum will be seven (7) and for U10, the minimum will be five (5). There should not be a minimum for U8 and U6. Clubs, administrators, coaches and referees should be encouraged to allow players from the team with sufficient numbers to loan a player or two to the team that is short players and then PLAY. Law 6 The Assistant Referees: As per FIFA. Use registered referees or club linesmen/women. P a g e 38

Youth Module II Law 7 The Duration of the Match: As per FIFA with the exception of the halves being 30 minutes each. Law 8 The Start and Restart of Play: As per FIFA. The distance the defending players must be away from the ball until it is kicked is the same as the radius of the center circle. Law 10 Goal Scored: Shall conform to FIFA and the sections concerning Winning Team and Competition. Rules shall conform to US Youth Soccer guidelines. Law 12 Fouls and Misconduct: The rule on the goalkeeper s distribution still allows for the ball to be punted the entire length of the field; it just cannot go directly into the opponents penalty area. Law 13 Free Kicks: As per FIFA. The distance the defending players must be away from the ball until it is kicked is the same as the radius of the center circle. Law 14 The Penalty Kick: Conform to FIFA with the exceptions that the penalty mark is ten yards from the center of the goal line and that players other than the kicker and defending goalkeeper are at least eight yards from the penalty mark. The distance of eight yards conforms to the radius of the center circle. The distance of ten yards from the center of the goalmouth for the penalty mark fits within the reduced dimensions of the penalty area and is a reasonable distance for the kick. Law 17 The Corner Kick: As per FIFA. The distance the defending players must be away from the ball until it is kicked is the same as the radius of the center circle. P a g e 39

Youth Module II Roster Size: The recommended minimum roster size is eleven and the maximum recommended roster size is thirteen. Playing Time: Refer to the Effective Playing Time chart. ADVANTAGES OF PLAYING SMALL SIDED GAMES More time with the coach Energetic workouts due to playing both offense and defense More efficient use of field space Matches can be played simultaneously across a full size field Children are physically more efficient in smaller space Children are actively involved for a longer period of time It takes less time to score a goal or advance to goal Greater success rate for the players US Youth Soccer Recommendations Opposing coaches, players and parents should shake hands after each match. Parent/coaches, non-participating players and spectators should be there to enjoy and encourage the activity of the youngsters. Spectator and team benches should be on opposite sides of the field. No alcoholic beverages or tobacco products will be consumed or allowed near the playing area. Coaches of U12 teams should attend the U10/U12 Youth Module coaching course and the Grade 9 referee course. P a g e 40

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