GOALKEEPING DRILLS

Goalkeepers! Is it True? They say that you have to be crazy to be a Football goalkeeper, but that is not all.

FREE 4 YOU SOCCER DRILLS

When Goalkeeping you have to be mentally tough, strong in the air, and not afraid to get hurt.
Goalies have to have good GK positioning and they have to be fast and they have to have
good HANDLING SKILLS.

We have a 100's of goalkeeping drills, Goalkeeper Training Exercises for you to use with your football team or Soccer Club.Goalkeeper training drills for kids

GOALKEEPING DRILLS

FOOTBALL COMMUNICATION

One of the most important, if not the most important aspects

on the field of play is great communication in football.

Apply Here for Football Trials players urgently needed

Good communication is vital if a team is to be successful.

Players need to communicate effectively with each other to

play well as a team. If you listen to the players playing in a

top flight match, one thing you will notice is the amount of

talking between the players, not only the instructional

communication but also the level of encouragement

offered between the players.

Communication not only means talking to each other,

but non-verbal communication also plays an important

part. Directing team-mates using hand signals and other

gestures both with and without the ball is very important.

Verbal and non-verbal communication used together can

be as effective as a well-placed pass, shot or tackle.

Playing football without talking limits the effectiveness

of the team and makes winning the game doubly hard.

We all see players who are gifted with the ball, but

sometimes let themselves down with their communication,

failing to show their team-mates what their intention is

with the ball but also what they expect from them.

What is worse, it is sometimes these very same players

who because of their own ability expect the same level

of play from the weaker players in the team, and when

the ball goes astray they get frustrated and call out

negatively to their team-mate. This is an example of

how important positive chat is on the pitch, because

negative communication not only gives out the wrong

signals but also demotivates the other players.

It can also send a message to the opposition and giving

them self-belief that telling them that the opposition cannot

play together.

Some young players can suffer from low confidence and this

manifests itself in their ability to talk on the pitch.

It is important for the football coach to identify this as early

as possible and encourage the player to use their voice.

If you have a player who lacks confidence, when it comes

to instructing team-mates, you need to give them encouragement

to improve their footballing self-esteem by doing drills

focussed on talking. This may not come naturally to some

players, though over time and with practice this can be

improved and cured completely. For these players it is

also very important for their team-mates to take a responsibility

and encourage them to use verbal communication as much

as possible. Football is a team game.

The many aspects of communication can be broken

down in the different phases of play, both in defending

and attacking. Players need to understand positions

and the tactics required for the various phases, and

the need to talk to each other, both for where the player

should be in any given situation and where the ball should

be or is expected to be.

Communication is the responsibility of every player, not

just the captain or the GOALKEEPER everyone has to

communicate as if they are the leader on the pitch.

Each player has a position and an area they are

responsible for, and in that area they should play

like a captain and communicate accordingly, calling players

into their area as needed and advising them what they

expect of them in their area. In that zone they also need

to take advice from other players who are perhaps better

able to see a situation developing from afar.

Players need to indicate to each other where they

expect their team-mates to be in any given situation,

where the ball will be directed to and they should also

be able to take instruction from any other member

of the team, regardless of their perceived level in

the team’s hierarchy.

It does not matter what the words used are, they

may be the conventional calls associated with the ball,

space on the field or the opponent, though the words

used can be anything, as long as the whole team

understands the code in use.

Young players need to focus on the team, and must

understand that the best players and most successful

teams have a habit of communicating well. In doing so

players need to follow these simple rules:

• Don’t be afraid to instruct and advised your team-mates on what you expect from them.

• Be responsive to instruction given.

• Don’t openly criticise your team-mates and encourage whenever possible.

The ultimate goal is to be able to watch a junior

match without hearing the coach or a parent shouting

and screaming instructions at a player, and for all player’s

to equally give and take important instructions and

advice from each other.

HOME

How to Defend - Jockey in Football

How to Jockey the attackerin football, or sometimes known as defenders putting pressure on the football player with the ball is an important aspect of defending, . Players, and in particular young players, have a tendency to "dive in" at the ball, often missing it completely due to the quick feet of the attacker, when they should hold back and jockey the attacker with the ball.

Jockeying in Football, is being as close to the ball as possible, within a short distance, and just close enough to be able to tackle. At this distance the defender is in control of the situation, being able to manipulate where the attacker will go and what he will do.

The defender should be in a low position with both knees bent, turned slightly at an angle from the attacker. The dominant foot of the defender should be furthest away from the attacker and with an even body weight the defender can move as close to the attacker as required, being then able to show the player inside or down the line.

Having the dominant foot back enables the defender to make a clean and easy strike for the ball if a good opportunity arises.

It's important to encourage players to stop attacking the ball while defending. By lunging at the ball the defender becomes unbalanced and is easily skipped passed by the attacker.SOCCER DRILLS

If however the defender quickly takes up the position and jockeys the attacking player, he forces the attacker to make a decision, not only does this give the defending team DEFENDING DRILLS time to regroup but it also puts a doubt into the attackers mind, increasing the chance that the attacker will make a mistake.

A drill to work on and encourage jockeying, is to have two players in a square about 10 yards apart. The attacker has the ball, the defender must run out to the attacker and take up the jockeying position, and without diving in for the ball, he should attempt to stop the attacker reaching the end line, and try to move him away. All through the exercise the defender should not touch he ball.

HOME

How to Defend - Jockey in Football

Tags develops goalkeeper GK agility, positional sense of a keeper and shot stopping ability. Ultimate Goalkeeping drills

Attacking Football Drills

FREE Attacking Football Drillsare the name of the game here, and what a fantastic selection of attacking drills on show.

These are our most popular used attacking drills by coaches and visitors to this website. Fill your boots these Attacking Drills are completely free....

Attacking Football Drills

• More drills to choose from our home page
  

Attacking Drills

TAGS: attacking drills, attacking, drills, forward, attacker, shoot, goal.

FA LEVEL 2 Passing and Support Small Sided Game In Soccer (SSG)

FA Level 2. Passing & Support Small Sided Game. Small-Sided Games,  soccer advice, tips and drills from our coaches at tonys soccer school. FA Level 2. Passing & Support Small Sided Game.

FA Level 2 Training Exercise

Start Position: FIG1. Opposing midfield player (O4) shoots at goal; The goalkeeper saves and serves to the Defender, Full Back (X2)

The Defender passes to the 1st Attacking Striker and receives a pass back. 1st Attacking forward spins and creates the space the 2nd forward to run into. FA Level 2, Football, Soccer, Coaching Course, UEFA, Passing, Support, Small Sided Game, SSG, Games, Soccer, Games, tips, drills, Coaching Course Level 1, FA LEVEL 3,

FA Level 2. Passing & Support Small Sided Game.

MORE FREE SOCCER DRILLS HERE

KEY FACTORS FOR LEVEL 2 PASSING & SUPPORT ARE

1. CREATE SPACE (X1 & X2 WIDTH)

2. COMMUNICATION (X2 & X3)

3. BODY POSITION (OPEN X2 & X3)

4. DECISION

5. SUPPORT – ANGLES & DISTANCE

6. TIMING – RUN / PASS

7. TECHNIQUE OF PASS

8. END PRODUCT 

Liverpool FC Official Academy Coaching Drills & Sessions

The Liverpool FC Way

Your brief description of the LIVERPOOL FOOTBALL ACADEMY view, gives you an insight into Playing The Liverpool FC Way. Please read and below you will find a complete free set of 50 Coaching Drills in a format issues by Liverpool FC. These are issued for information purposes and are not for resale and we make no money from these, and are to be used for Coaching Purposes.

Many people are also interested in LIVERPOOL FOOTBALL ACADEMY, and if you have a passion for Liverpool Coaching then THE LIVERPOOL FC GAME PASS & MOVE SMALL SIDED GAME, id just the drill for you. We can also inform you Liverpool FC Academy launch new football academy trials, and remember all you need regarding trials can be found here LIVERPOOL FC ACADEMY.

Liverpool Academy Coaching History - Liverpool FC Coach

Liverpool football club is recognised around the world as one of a small elite groups of clubs with a true world wide reputation. For the last fifty years the club has been at the forefront of British and European football, winning numerous championships and European club tournaments. During this time, there has been a consistent tradition of developing top class players, particularly from the Liverpool area. Currently Steven Gerrard, Michael Owen and Jamie Carragher are examples of home grown talent who would rank in the very top chelon of players world wide.
We believe passionately in a ‘Liverpool Way’ of doing things and indeed, football fans would identify a clear ‘Liverpool Way’ which sets us apart from other clubs in a real and tangible way.

Whilst the development of local players has been at the core of our philosophy we have always believed that we have a responsibility for the all round education of our young players as we prepare them not only for football but for life after football- a truly historic approach. Also running alongside our player development programme has been a coaching development programme.

To play or work for Liverpool Football Club is a great honour. It does not matter whether you are 9,19,29 or 59- the magic is the same. Football is a simple game but when talented players, gifted coaches and sensible parents are united together, they can move mountains.
Everyone in this Academy should be aware of the traditions of this club, the standards
and values that the club represents, the responsibility that we all share to behave in a
professional way that seeks improvement, excellence and success without sacrificing the
values that we hold so dear.

Grab your PDF Format Coaching Drills Click Below

Liverpool FC Official Academy Coaching Drills & Sessions

Please book mark our website for all your future FREE Coaching and Football Trial Resources. If you have difficaulty viewing this please email me and will send it over in email format for you.

Fun Free Soccer Drills

Fun Free Soccer Drills for you to use, from Tonys Soccer School

DEFENDING DRILLS MENU

What a fantastic selection of FREE Defending drills we have here for you you view.

100's of Soccer Drills now at your finger tips, in our Defending Drills Menu.

DEFENDING DRILLS

MORE FREE SOCCER DRILLS 4 YOU

DEFENDING DRILLS

Goalkeeper Coaching, The Complete Guide

My thanks to Mike Smith (the OYSA Recreation Head Coach) for this article. See more good coaching tips at www.oregonyouthsoccer.org

Introduction to Goalkeeping

The U12 goalkeeper is ready to take a major step in his or her development. Up to this point, many players have probably taken turns playing in goal, but at this age the player that wants to concentrate on the position of goalkeeper usually makes him or herself known. It is, however, important that all players still do a lot of dribbling and passing exercises as all goalkeepersneed to be good with their feet too.

The requirements and training of this position are specific and must be dealt with in a patient and understanding manner. It is helpful for every young goalkeeper to get basic instruction from an older keeper who has gone through proper training. Exposing a player to diving and defending breakaways (1 v 1) without proper preparation usually ends in injury and discouragement, and should be avoided. All goalkeepersenjoy playing out on the field, and should thus be encouraged to participate in all areas of practice to improve their vision, technical foot skills and overall development.

Proper instruction for goalkeepers in this age group can improve them tremendously.

They have generally reached the age where they will not move out of the way of a hard shot, and should therefore concentrate on receiving all types of balls and on distribution. It is at this age group that they should also be exposed to proper diving techniques.

Once the player has the basic goalkeepers tools, he or she can be worked into all the team’s training. The goalkeeper should always be a part of the team and certain parts of training should emphasize the goalkeepers involvement more than others.

The Ready Position:

Start by teaching players the “ready position”, the stance that all young goalkeepers should adopt anytime they prepare to stop a shot, whether during practice or in a game. The ready position involves being balanced on the balls (or front) of the feet, bending comfortably at the knees while keeping as tall as possible, and having the hands relaxed through the fingertips.

To add to this the player should be shifting weight from foot to foot at speed in order to increase his reaction time and jumping ability.

Hand Positioning:

It is imperative that young goalkeepers are taught the correct hand positioning for both low and high balls. In both cases, the hands should form a supple web that surrounds the back side (closest to the goal) of the football. (Remember to always play with an appropriate sized ball for the age group that you are coaching). Coaches should also remember that at this age, players often have difficulty judging the height and speed of a moving ball.

For low balls the hand position resembles an ‘M’, with fingers pointed down and palms facing forward. The little fingers of both hands are almost touching.

For high balls the hand position resembles a ‘W’, with fingertips pointed up and palms facing forward. The thumbs of both hands are almost touching.

Coaching Points:

It is stressed that whenever possible, the young goalkeepers should try to get two hands behind the ball (no show diving!) as quickly as possible. This means that we have to encourage the young goalkeeper to have quick feet, attack the ball and move forward to meet the flight of the ball.

When meeting the football, the goalkeeper should also use their body to form two barriers, a cushion and a wall. Try to get the goalkeepers to cushion the ball towards their bodies with their hands. The goalkeeper can absorb the force of the shot by relaxing slightly at the moment of contact. We do not want to form a brick wall that the ball will just bounce off back towards the attacking player! The wall will be created behind the cushion by the goalkeepers legs or body.

A goalkeeper should always be on the balls of his/her feet to be ready to react to different and developing situations.

Practice:

At practice utilise 1:1 technical work at this age group. Emphasize that the hands are supposed to cushion the ball into the chest area. A good practice exercise for this is to work in pairs with one throwing the ball, the other catching with one hand pretending that the ball is a water-filled balloon! Alternate the catching hand and vary the service. Make the catching player move his or her feet. This can be developed into two hands using the correct hand positioning getting the players to not let the ball make a sound as they catch it. Coaches should try this too; it is more difficult than it seems!

Collecting Balls

Before going into the methods of collecting/saving/catching different types of balls, stress the importance of being ready to move in the direction of the shot. A good goalkeeper makes difficult saves look routine by anticipating his or her movements well in advance. If a young goalkeeper can concentrate for 5 minutes on the opposition attack, he or she will learn much about where the most danger will come from. Things to look for include: which foot the forward favours, which way they are likely to turn with their back to goal and which side of the field they prefer to attack down. In most games of this age group the coach can help by identifying simple patterns to his or her players.

Players at this age often have difficulty judging the height and speed of a moving ball, therefore, wherever the ball is coming from tell the goalkeeper to be on their toes and ready to move their feet to get their body behind the line of the ball.

Ground Level:

In the handling of ground balls (rolling), the main concern is to get the body between the ball and the goal. Goalkeepers should learn to ‘shuffle’ (side step) to the rolling ball and attempt to create two barriers (the cushion and wall) between the ball and the goal. The cushion is the goalkeeper’s hands in the ‘M’ position, and the wall will be the goalkeeper’s legs. Again once behind the line of the ball, the goalkeeper can attack it by moving forwards to meet it. Once the keeper is certain of the line of the ball he should position one foot to the side of the ball, kneel down on the opposite knee (forming the wall) and make a ramp leading to his chest with his hands and arms.

Get the body behind the ball no matter how slowly the ball is travelling. As the ball travels up the ramp, the hands and forearms should curl around the bottom of the ball and hold it into the safety of the chest. It should not be ‘scooped’ as young keepers have a tendency to be too keen and the ball can end up slipping out and into the net! The goalkeeper can alternatively attempt to bend from the waist and maintain fairly straight legs to collect a ground ball. This is sometimes preferred because of a bigger body surface forming ‘the wall’ and also for speed of distribution from a standing position.

With no pressure a goalkeeper should be encouraged to come away from his goal line and field the ball with his feet. His or her first touch, however, should be at an angle away from the goal and/or direction of pressure (where ball has just come from). It should be reinforced that the young keeper should also play to their strongest foot.

Waist Level:

Again, instruct the goalkeeper to get directly behind the ball and field it with the fingers relaxed towards the ground. As the ball makes contact, the goalkeeper can absorb the force of the shot by giving or withdrawing slightly. By curling around the ball from the waist, a majority of this force is absorbed.

Chest Level:

Teach the goalkeeper to get behind the shot and allow the ball to make contact with the fingertips of both hands. Do not attempt to clasp the ball from both sides. Form a net with the hands around the ball in the ‘W’ position, with thumbs together and finger tips upward. Pull the ball into the chest for safety.

Overhead Level:

Handling high shots requires sure hands because in this case, the hands are the only wall between the ball and the goal. The hands must be outstretched and fairly relaxed to absorb the shot’s force. Again, the hands must make contact on the backside of the ball and not the sides.

To help ensure that this happens, ask the keeper to keep his thumbs touching whenever he goes for the ball. Many young goalkeepers will move their arms from their sides in large arcs to meet in the middle above their head, although by the time they have done this the ball has often gone through already! Get the keepers to get in the habit of always moving their arms in straight lines towards the line of flight of the ball. Pull the ball to the safety of the chest as soon as possible.

Jumping:

When the shots are overhead, a goalkeeper should still attempt to make two barriers between the ball and the goal. The goalkeeper can do this by jumping up vertically, although we must encourage our young goalkeepers to attack the ball (move forward to collect it rather than wait for it to come to them). During practice, the coach should ask his players to jump as high as they can, firstly from a still position with hands by their sides, then allowing them to use their arms to thrust upwards, and then finally taking a few steps forward, taking off on one foot, and using one knee and both of their arms to thrust upwards. Which of the three methods saw them leap highest? If the goalkeeper can anticipate quickly and get behind the line of the ball, then he can afford himself most time to get vertical. It is vital that our young goalkeepers practice jumping and holding on to high balls.

Summary:

To summarize, no matter what type of shot, the goalkeeper should do the following:

1. Side-step quickly behind the line of the ball

2. Attack the ball whenever possible

3. Create two barriers between the ball and the goal, or have as much of body behind ball as possible

4. Absorb the ball’s force by cushioning

5. Bring the ball to the safety of the chest

6. Concentrate until the ball is in the hands

7. All goalkeepers need a good warm-up of all the above and some basic diving (explained below)

These basic concepts must be taught before placing a child in the position of goalkeeper.

Narrowing Angles

Generally speaking, if the opposition is attacking down the middle of the field, the goalkeeper will want to stay in the middle of his goal. If however, they are attacking the goal from the side he will want to move slightly in that direction to cover his ‘near post’ (the goal post nearest the shooter) because the ball when shot can travel to that side of the goal more quickly than to the other side. Most professional goalkeepers will tell you that they would much prefer to get beaten with a shot to the far post than the near post.

A coach can easily demonstrate where the young keeper should position him or herself by tying a piece of rope to each goalpost and having the shooter hold them to form a triangle. The goalkeeper should try and position himself on the line that bisects the triangle.

A coach can very easily demonstrate what ‘narrowing the angle’ means by getting each player in turn to place their ball on the penalty spot and stand behind it. Ask the player how much of the goal he can see unprotected. Then ask the player what his chances are of scoring.

Then move forward to the edge of the 6-yard box and ask the player the same questions.

The same concept is utilized whether the attacking team is coming at the goalkeeper from the middle or the sides. Obviously we do not want the keeper to come out too far as the ball could be deliberately chipped over his or her head, although at this age group this is rare. As a general rule if the forward has the ball at his feet, then the goalkeeper can advance at least yards. The coach should reinforce that the keeper should always be in the ready position.

Diving

Young players will both head, slide tackle and dive for the ball, whether we want them to or not, therefore, it is imperative that they be taught the correct techniques from the outset.

The first dives should be taught in practice from a seated or kneeling position. The coach or partner kneeling 3-4 yards away will roll a ball (slowly) to an agreed side about one yard from the keeper’s upright body. The keeper’s arm is to produce a ‘long barrier’ between the ball and the imaginary goal behind him. Again we want to encourage our keepers’ to attack (move forward towards) the ball, so they will dive to their side but slightly towards the ball. The player will do this by placing his hand (on the side of the body that he is going to dive) on the ground, fingers spread, with the little finger almost touching the ground. This hand is to move in a straight line at this distance from the ground at all times, keeping the arm as straight as possible.

The opposite hand should move across the body, again trying to have the thumbs nearly touching, but this hand will end up half behind and half on top of the ball in order to control it.

In essence the bottom arm attacks the ball, the body rotates and the bottom elbow is tucked in.

The goalkeeper will end up lying on his or her side arm outstretched to make as long a barrier as possible. Again, the ‘barrier’ must be flexible enough to absorb the force of the ball and not rebound it to the attacker. The ball must again be brought into the body in a controlled fashion as soon as it is under control. The knee of the top leg should be brought up also for protection.

It is very important that the coach alternates the player doing the exercise regularly (every 1-2 minutes). It is extremely tiring utilizing sets of muscles that are not used very often. The coach should try it sometime! The practice should continue with balls rolling to each side (the partner telling the keeper which side he is rolling to). When the keeper is competent (and agreeable) the service can speed up and finally not let the keeper know which side it is going to, in order to increase his reflex speed.

As the goalkeeper matures throughout the season, the coach can determine whether it is prudent to advance the goalkeeping practice to starting from a kneeling position (making a slightly longer barrier), then crouching, and graduate to a standing ‘ready’ position with feet shoulder width apart. Then the partner can serve the ball from a longer distance using his feet, getting the keeper to move his feet (side-stepping) to make the save as easy as possible.

Remember that if the keeper can make two barriers then he should. Again, we want to encourage the goalkeeper to attack the ball. When in a standing position, the first step must be forward at a 45 degree angle towards the side of the ball. The goalkeeper’s feet must be pointed up the field.

Landing is an extremely important issue when diving for a ball. Young goalkeepers have a tendency to dive stomach-first giving a superman impression. This is wrong as it goes against our key factors of having our eyes on, and our body behind, the ball. It can also be very painful.

For a ‘collapse’ save (for a ball fairly near to the body) it is essential for the goalkeeper to land on his/her side, breaking their fall first with the side of the leg, hip and then shoulder. For a ball further from the keeper’s body, the dive will more closely resemble a dive into a swimming pool with the keeper’s forearm and then shoulder landing first. Again, in both cases the goalkeeper should then pull the ball in to the body in a controlled fashion, keeping it safely out of the reach of attackers.

As this stage is reached and the coach feels that the goalkeeper work can be incorporated into a team shooting exercise, then the coach should first concentrate on emphasizing the above coaching points to the keeper, while the assistant controls the rest of the team shooting. It is often helpful for the coach to stand behind the net to see things from the goalkeeper’s perspective. Remember that all players need to be warmed up properly, especially the goalkeeper, and thus it is advisable to have the players shooting from a longer distance first. Try to encourage the keeper to concentrate in practice as to which foot certain players will use and where they like to shoot. This can help concentration and anticipation in games.

The progression described above can be utilized for a basic warm-up prior to a practice or game.

Ball Distribution

Once the ball is successfully collected and controlled, the goalkeeper must make a quick decision on the method of distribution, whether to roll, throw, pass or kick the ball back into play.Remember that the keeper is trying to distribute the ball to a teammate in space and in such a way that it is fairly easy to bring down under control.Most players at this age will be most accurate if they roll, pass or throw the ball. Again, goalkeepers should be encouraged to distribute the ball to the sides of the goal and to try to switch the play to the opposite side from where the pressure (ball) has just come.

Roll:

Rolling the ball to a team-mate who is fairly close and does not have an opposing player near him involves a motion very similar to bowling. The goalkeeper’s feet are usually moving in that direction and the strongest arm provides the rolling force, while the other hand simply helps guide the ball in the appropriate direction.

Throw:

There an abundance of different throwing techniques a goalkeeper can use. It is best to expose the young players to all of them and then they will decide which ones they favour. Most frequently seen are the underarm throw, the sidearm slingshot, the baseball pitch and the over arm throw.

The over-arm throws are slightly more difficult for a team-mate to control, so it is vital that the keeper allows for this in looking to see where the nearest member of the opposition is.

This action is similar to a tennis serve, holding the ball in one hand (the strongest serving arm), but the feet are positioned firmly on the ground one foot in front of the other.

Pass:

Quite regularly in the game these days, one will see a long ball played over the defence that rolls straight to the keeper and the opposition forwards give up the chase. If a keeper has been regularly involved in matches (as most kids have at the younger age groups) then he will have time to control the ball and pass to a teammate in space. This may even be done outside of the penalty area. It is recognized that it is often difficult for a younger player to look up and take a ‘snapshot’ of where players are before concentrating on the ball, however, a simple call of ‘time’ by a defender will allow him to relax sufficiently in order to control the ball, look up and pass. If the goalkeeper is attempting to control the ball with his feet, he should try to do this when the ball is not heading directly to his goal! The coach can help the players practice this.

Kick:

There are times when the players in front of the goalkeeper will all have a member of the opposition fairly close by. The coach can teach his players to move into space, but sometimes a goalkeeper will have to kick the ball. To most easily get a young keeper to do this, get him to hold the ball in both hands, then walk forward after a few steps drop the ball and attempt to kick just after the ball bounces. This technique will set up the desired motion. The keeper must keep the toes of the kicking foot pointed down and remember to follow through the ball as far as possible. This skill requires a lot of practice before it can be done successfully on a regular basis. The coach should emphasize accuracy before power to start with.

Communication & Support

Undoubtedly the goalkeeper has the best view of the field of play, particularly in his own half. The keeper therefore must be encouraged to communicate with his defenders and midfield players. We have already seen how a defender can make a call of ‘time’ to his keeper, and in this way the relationship is dynamic and players should be communicating with each other constantly.

This communication should always be positive. Constructive analysis must only come from the coach.

As with all game situations, a player who wants to control the ball should call for it, and this is no different for young goalkeepers. They should be encouraged to call ‘keeper’s ball’ for any ball that they feel they can control (both in practice and matches). This is a real safety issue as a player that does not call for a ball he is going towards risks getting run into by another player.

Having every player in practice call for every ball that they want to control, as well as every ball they want to receive from a teammate, gets them learning good habits from an early age. The goalkeeper should learn this too, and also to give instructions for the defence to go wide, come in, or to a specific player to hold position or drop back to cover. This develops trust and will eventually be used to take advantage of the opposing team’s weaknesses and break down an attack.

FOOTBALL WARM UPS AND COOL DOWNS

Most coaches have changed with the times in regards to stretching players in training. For years, players would do a series of static stretches first and then go into their training regime. Then the idea of getting the players muscles warm first, stop and perform a series of static stretches, get the players back to running again only to stop and stretch another muscle group.

FOOTBALL WARM UPS AND COOL DOWNS

 - the right way to prepare young soccer players for training/matches and cool them down afterwards.

For the youngest ages, stretching is not important. For the older age groups coaches should incorporate some dynamic stretching along with setting a tone or a “sneak preview” for what the session is going to be about.

warm up

Dynamic or Functional Stretching is warming up the muscles specifically for the movements that will be used in the activities of the training session. It is the type of stretching that runners will often use before a race.

Each Functional exercise should be performed over a 15-20 yard area with a walking or jogging recovery.

Here are just some of the Functional Stretching exercises you can incorporate into your warm-up:

•Lunge Walk-Loosens up the hips. Lunge walk is when you take large steps keeping the chest up, looking straight ahead and moving the arms and legs together.

•High Knees-For hip flexor and ankle strength. Extend up to the toes and lift each thigh to a parallel position with the ground as you move forward.

•Calf Walk-For lower limb strength and Achilles flexibility. Extend the ankle on each step will warm up the calf muscles and Achilles ten don s.

•Sideways running-For lower limb strength, agility and flexibility.

•Backwards skipping-Same as above and works on strengthening quads and calf muscles.

cool down should be done AFTER the training session in order to help speed up the recovery process. This is the cooling down stage. Cooling down are easy movements, light running, and more stretching. The cooling down stage of training is something that all coaches need to include as part of their training session.

This session will show a variety of activities to utilize in both the warm-up and cool down stages of the training session.

FOOTBALL WARM UPS AND COOL DOWNS

93% of visitors to this page also read..... 

Traffic Lights

The set up Traffic Lights Training Session Drill in Football

A 20 by 20 yard square with each side being made up of button cones

You will need enough footballs for each player to have one each.

Traffic Lights Coach Football Drill– from the FA Level 1 – coach needs three button cones, one red, one yellow , one green.  The players are invited to dribble their football around the square at their own pace,  then introduce the red cone – when held up by the coach means ‘Stop with your foot on the ball’,  continue the dribbling,  introduce the Yellow cone – means ‘turn’ (or do a step over or whatever coach chooses) so when the coach holds up the yellow cone the players must turn and move in the opposite direction (you could even specify a particular type of turn here if you wanted to),  introduce the green cone – means go – i.e. accelerate forward into space so long as it is safe to do so. 

Once the player have been briefed on the meaning of each cone its just a matter of cycling through them as you see fit.  No verbal commands from the coach just the holding up of the cones – also the coach should move positions – idea is that the players have to look up not just down at the ball.

Goalkeeper Coaching, The Hints & Tips

thanks to Soccer-Coach-L for this soccer coaching article

goalkeeperCoaching, The hints & tips. This article presents a few hints on keeper training for young players. This is not presented as a practice plan, because an entire practice on keeper training is not appropriate for young players and because all players should be exposed to these basics.

First let's define the age group as U-9 or U-10 and younger. A player this young should not be forced to play goalkeeperfull time. All the players should get some keeper training. This training should include the rules for keepers including where they can use their hands and how they may get rid of the ball. Pay special attention to the latter since it varies widely at the lower levels. For example a local recreational league allows the goalkeepersto run to the top of the area and get rid of the ball, whereas another league enforces the 4 step rule.

Specific training should be aimed at teaching proper catching technique. Forget diving and all the advanced stuff. For the upper limit of the age group (U-9) you can begin to teach positioning. Stress importance of protecting near post, cutting down angle, and moving across the goal mouth as the ball moves across the field. You can teach them to come off the line for free balls in the area where they can handle the ball beginning at the U-7 level.

Spend time also on what to do after the keeper gets the ball.Teach the kids not to panic. Lots of kids in this age (and older too) want to get rid of the ball as soon as possible. Teach them to catch the ball, take a deep breath, let the traffic clear, and then distribute the ball. U-8 and younger you probably want to kick, throw, or whatever the ball as far up field as possible. When you reach U-9, you can probably start adding other options, if the field players have sufficient skill to retain control of the ball after the keeper gets it to them. If the field players lack skill, then its still best to blast the ball up-field.

The team should buy a couple of junior keeper gloves (2 sizes so that all the kids can use them) that are form fitting and provide a dimpled surface. These gloves cost under $10/pair at your local department store. Avoid the big gloves. As anyone who has coached young kids baseball can tell you, young kids can barely control their bare hands. So don't even think about any of the large modern gloves.

At U-8 or so, you may find a kid who is more serious about being a keeper and will come to practice with a pair of big gloves, just like the big kids use. I suggest you don't let him use them because of the kid's inability to control them. Talk to the parents and explain why you're not using the big gloves. Better yet have a meeting before the $ is spent.

Assuming that practice time is limited, I would suggest a few sessions as follows:

1. For the whole team go over the rules for keepers.

2. For the whole team demonstrate proper catching. Divide the team into pairs and let them practice catching. Walk around and make necessary corrections.

3. Above is probably 5 to 10 minutes.

4. Set up shooting/keeper drills and rotate all kids into the goal. Keeper teaching points are catching technique and what to do after the ball is caught.

5. During scrimmages, place emphasis on what the keeper should do with ball after the save.

There are three key points for training young keepers:

1. Don't blame keepers for giving up a goal.

2. The coach MUST stay calm when the keeper has the ball. Too many coaches panic and start screaming "GET RID OF THE BALL." If the coach panics, there is no way to expect the kids to stay calm.

3. Remember that young kids have a short attention span and may be studying the bugs on the field while the ball is headed for the back of the net. Don't let this bother you.

Technique Training Exercises

During most warm-ups the coach can include some GK work with the field player's workout. Some suggestions are:

• All players are dribbling in an area. The designated GKs are jogging around and call for a ball from a dribbler. The dribbler makes a ground pass to the GK who runs through the pickup and returns the ball to the dribbler. The coach could make this a team-wide exercise--the GK that picks up the ball now is a dribbler and the passer becomes the goalkeeper. As the skill level increase, the dribbler can "shoot" a catchable ball at the goalkeeper.

• All players are passing and moving in pairs. The designated goalkeeper calls for the ball from a dribbler who passes to his partner, who "shoots" a catchable ball at the goalkeepers. The goalkeepers distributes back to one of the players and finds another pair to receive a shot; or the GK distributes to and pairs up with the original dribbler as the shooter becomes the new GK.

The above exercises could be where only the goalkeepers has the ball and distributes to a player for a one-touch return or a pass over to his partner for a shot on the GK.

GK play can be incorporated into passing warm-ups and exercises. For example, in pass and change lines, the GK can use this exercise to pick up ground passes. At times, the passer may "shoot" a ball off the ground for the GK to catch.

Specific training for youth GKs should start with basic catching technique. Coaching points include:

• hands move together, both behind the ball; the thumbs should be close, the index fingers slightly turned towards each other.

• elbows are in front of the torso and close together

• hands are forward and fingers high on the ball

• the GK should constantly be bouncing on the balls of the feet and moving the body behind any balls to the side

• the hands move together for all catches; if the ball is below the chest, the hands should be extended and turned to where the little fingers and sides of the palm are touching; the elbows especially should be very close on this catch

• on a ground pickup, the GK should step one foot beside the ball, lower one knee close to but not touching the ground behind the ball and scoop the pickup, continuing in a forward run after the pickup (this is called running through the pickup)
   

Sample exercises include:

• 2-man pass and catch

• short ball serve, followed by a high ball; the GK should be made to move forward, then backwards

• 2-man pass and catch with moving side to side or forwards and backwards

• GK in the middle with 2 servers alternating

• GK forward pickup with server moving backwards laying ground passes off at different angles

• GK sit-ups with ball, coach kicks ball as GK brings it forward; this is to teach proper hand position and give the GK confidence in his grip

Footwork is the next area of GK training. Sideways shuffling between cones or quick steps forward and backwards between cones is the first part. The youth GK should be taught to move from post to post in an arc that extends about 2-3 yards out from the centre of the goal. This can be taught with two servers that are positioned several yards out, say at the top of the penalty area and wide of each post. As they pass the ball back and forth, the GK moves on his arc.

Forward movement can be taught with a gate several yards in front of the GKs arc. Balls are played from some distance so that the GK can pickup the serves before they reach the gate. If you have a couple of GKs, a fun exercise is to have a "goal-line" that is as wide as a goal. Place two gates a couple of yards shorter than the goal width about 3-4 yards in front and back of the goal-line. The GKs take "shots", beginning with ground balls, from the servers in front of each gate. After each "shot," the GKs trade sides and catch the next serve before it passes through the gate. Another footwork exercise is to have a server on the side deliver a low ball to the near post; immediately after the GK makes the save, they move back to the far post for a high serve.

While diving is not appropriate for the younger age groups, we'll take a quick look at it anyway. Teaching basic diving technique starts with the GK sitting on the ground. The GK should hold the ball and fall to one side and plant the ball. One hand should be behind the ball, the other hand on top of the ball. The elbow and forearm should not be touching the ground.

The next step is to fall from a squatting position. If the GK continues to land on the elbow and forearm, then have the player put his hands together in a praying position and fall. Then have the player fall holding and planting a ball. The ball, the hip and the shoulder should be the only areas that touch the ground. The ball should be planted first, followed by the hip and shoulder almost together.

From a standing position, the player should squat and fall. This teaches the knee bend required. From here, the player should take an angled step with the near foot, lowing the near hip and then falling, planting the ball. At each of the above stages, move from the GK holding the ball to the GK catching a served ball.

Once the dive mechanics are understood, the GK must be shown the final position to protect the body. The ball and forearms should be in front of the face. The top knee should be driven forward to almost touching the top elbow, this will protect the torso. The bottom leg should be extended and raised slightly.

When comfortable enough, have the GK make consecutive dives to one side on served balls across the goal mouth and then zigzag dives forward from the goal mouth to the top of the penalty area.

Finally, the GK should be taught distribution. Though last in this list, distribution can be taught early on. When playing catch, have the GK do 3/4 overhead tosses. The GK must cup the ball in one hand (which is difficult for some of the younger players to do). The ball should be delivered just lower than straight above the head and the body and head should be as tall as possible.

Another distribution technique is the volley kick (or punt). The initial stages can again begin with playing catch. Have the GKs serve the balls with short volley kicks. The closer to the ground they can kick the ball the better. This moves to the full volley kick where the GK should drop (not toss in the air) the ball with the hand opposite the kicking foot.

A young GK may not be mature enough to understand the angles involved with playing the GK position. However, the coach can start to reinforce the idea with a 100-150 foot rope tied to each goal post. As the apex of the rope moves, the GK will be given a visual layout of the path of a shot to either post.

A drawn arc out from each post to a couple of yards from the goal center will show the GK, the path he should travel when the ball moves from one post to the other. The point is to get the GK off the line a little bit when the ball is in the center and to cover the near post when the ball is on the side.

Coming out to pick up a ball or close down the angle is a skill that requires lots of experience. Playing balls into the area with an attacker running on but well within the GK's capability of getting to them will help establish the GK mentality of coming out. Playing balls to an attacker where the GK cannot get there first will hopefully train the GK that there are ball he must stay back on. The coach must work with his GK to establish his range. This training should include kicking the ball away if the GK has to play it out of the penalty area.

The rule of thumb for coming out is, if you are sure you can get to the ball first, then go for it, else, hang back and look for the next touch by the attacker to be your ball.

TEAM BUILDING FOOTBALL SESSION

TEAM BUILDING FOOTBALL SESSION

by Mike Singleton, Mass Youth Soccer

Ball tag---In a space about 40yd x 30yd, give every player a football and a partner. When the chaser hits the ball of the chase with their ball, the roles reverse. Players do not want to be chaser when coach yells freeze. Version 2: Make two teams to make more dynamic, give each team a 2 minute time limit in which they are on attack and get a point for every time they hit one of the other team’s balls. See which team has the most points at the end (winners).

Colors Passing---Half of the players in red bibs, half in blue. Teams playing together in the same space combine in the passing sequence blue-blue-red-red-blue-blue-red-red etc. etc. Ball can never stop, players can never stop moving, and ball cannot leave area of play. Coach can limit touch-count, mandate which foot to pass with or which side of foot to pass with as sees fit. When players can do first sequence adequately and without frequent errors change the sequence to blue-blue-blue-red-red-red-blue-blue-blue etc. etc. Stress communication and technical passing points throughout. Make this activity competitive by counting errors and setting goals by lowering allowed errors.

Keepaway with handball---Teams play keepaway with one ball on the ground. However, the defensive team does not defend as they normally would in soccer. The defensive team has two balls in their hands that they must throw at the keepaway ball in order to gain possession. If one of the handballs hits the keepaway ball, then possession switches.Version 2: To make this competitive add a rule in which 5 passes equals a goal. 

Multi-goal game---8 v 8 in 65x50 yard grid. 6 two-yard goals are spread out throughout the grid. The teams score by passing through any of the goals to a teammate. First team to 10 points wins. Add balls if need to space out players. Players need to be able to see where the open goals are, and receive with a “picture” of what is around them. With this in mind, if the players are advanced enough, the player receiving through the goal must play 1 touch or coach could require receiving player to perform a feint before touching ball.Version 2: Use different color cones for goals and assign different point totals to different goals.

 8v8 game---On a 70x50 yard field with goalies and large goals, play a regular match. To make the game more fun let team know they can only score off of a one touch and get multiple points for headers and volleys. The coach should call fouls throughout the game to give teams opportunity to be creative on set plays.

Cool Down---Juggling in team so everyone must touch with certain body parts called out by coach. Players have to guess the total number of touches it will take for their team to accomplish goal. First team to guess exact number wins.

93% of visitors to this page also read..... 

 The Triangle Game, Football Passing, Training Drill

A three-goal triangle of normal full-size goal dimensions is set up on a good diving area.

Three cones are positioned about 15-20 yards away facing the centre of the goals.

One player stands at each cone, with at least two balls, while three retrievers stand around the area to get the balls back quickly to those at the cones

Organisation of the Triangle Drill

The drill starts with each player firing a shot at goal in strict rotation. The goalkeeper moves quickly from goal to goal to reposition himself for each shot.

The coach should signal to players when they should shoot so that the goalkeeper is kept working hard to save shots. A reasonable time period for the goalkeeper is about 30-60 seconds, which the coach should monitor since the work is very strenuous.

Progression of the Triangle Drill

Create a competition among the goalkeepers to see who can lose the least number of goals in given time periods.

• Some of the players shooting the ball can be asked to play a certain type of shot, to give the goalkeeper practice in that situation, e.g. a player may attempt to chip the ball over the goalkeeper's head.

• The coach can increase the tempo of the practice whereby each player shoots just as the goalkeeper recovers from the last shot, thus putting him under greater pressure.

• Add a cone at the centre of the triangle. The keeper has to make his save, run around the cone and make another save at the next “window”.

SKILLS SKOOL

Here is comprehensive list of Basic Football Skills sessions, to use with young football players, designed to enhance your players basic knowledge of Football skills. Click to open any of the sessions. If you wish to add a basic skill session please use the contact us.

See Below for FOOTBALL SKILLS SKOOL Sessions.

Defending Set Pieces In Soccer

Defending Corners
Soccer set plays, when defending a corner it is a good move to ensure you have a player on each post. The defending player closest to the corner kicker should face the ball, keeping tight to the post to prevent the ball sneaking directly in from the kick. The player on the far post should face play, anticipating the ball coming in from an attacker.

Goals should never be conceded when you defend set pieces. A goal given away during a set play is a cheap goal. Each player is aware of what is about to happen and if a goal is conceded it is because of a lapse in concentration or an exceptional piece of play from the opposition.

Defending a set piece is not difficult or complicated. The most important thing is to ensure each attacking player is marked. The defender must stay with their attacker and do so on the goal side, so that the defender is always closer to the goal than the attacker.

Defending Set Pieces In Soccer

• DEFENDING DRILLS

Defending Corners
When defending a corner it is a good move to ensure you have a player on each post. The defending player closest to the corner kicker should face the ball, keeping tight to the post to prevent the ball sneaking directly in from the kick. The player on the far post should face play, anticipating the ball coming in from an attacker.

For 7v7 mini-soccer, you should always have a player on the near post, especially because corners from young players do not always reach past the near post.

The other defenders should mark each of the attackers, following their movements and keeping tight to them. It is important to keep contact with the attacker, so that you can feel as well as see where they go.

Often the attacking team will line-up a player or two to run into the box as the kicker takes the corner. It is also important to mark these players and run in with them.

• PRO FOOTBALL TRIALS

Soccer set plays

If the attacking team take a short corner it is essential for a defender to quickly close the ball down, preventing the ball coming in from a better angle. However the players on the posts should remain in position until the ball is cleared.

Defending Throw-in
Defending throw-ins is much like defending a corner with each attacking player being marked by a defender. When the ball is thrown down the line, where possible the likely recipient should have a defender both in front and behind. Doing this prevents and easy fet and back ball, as well as dealing with a longer ball down the line.

Defending Free-kicks
For deep free-kicks from a far distance or wide kicks, the same technique used to defend a corner applies. Each player should be marked at the goal side, though depending on where the ball is coming from may result in not needing a player on the post.

For free-kicks closer to goal it is important to react fast by getting as many players behind the ball as possible, preventing being caught out by the kick being taken quickly. If the free-kick is indirect, then a player must close the ball down as soon as it has been touched, and the player must be prepared to put his body in the way to block any potential shot.

Defending Set Plays

To defend a direct free-kick a wall may be required, which should be organised by the defending goal-keeper. The wall should cover half the goal with the other side being taken by the goal-keeper.

Players not in the wall should each mark an attacking player.

The most important part of defending any set piece situation is to communicate with your team mates. Telling each other who you are marking, making it clear to all defenders but also informing your team mates if any players have been left unmarked.

Defending Goal Side

If you pick up a player, defending on the goal side, and stick with that player you will have a very good chance of preventing a goal from a set piece.SOCCER DRILLS

• HOME

Exceptional Defending Drills Read by the best Football Coaches.....

Goalkeeper Distribution

Goalkeepers Distribution. The goalkeeperis the last line of defence, but also the first line of attack. I am not advocating attempting to dribble the entire field starting from your own goal like Amadeo Carrizo, but a quick restart to the attack can be very effective. After a save is made, the keeper must quickly look to break out and start the counter.

Distribution can be done two ways: throws or kicks. Both have advantages for certain situations.

Kicks

A goalkeeper may simply drop the ball to the ground and take the kick normally, especially if they have a big foot. When more distance is required, to break pressure or for younger players, a punt or drop kick is used.

• Punts
  A punt is usually the kick with the greatest distance, although the high trajectory and hang time usually mean 50-50 balls at the receiving end. Start with the ball in both hands. It may be more comfortable to end up dropping the ball with one hand rather than two. If so, the hand on the same side as the kicking foot should be used (you'll see this in the video clip). But starting with both hands will allow for more consistency in the drop. Take a short run up (about 2-3 steps) at a slight angle to the kicking direction; this gets the hip more involved and generates more power. The plant foot should point towards the target. Drop the ball - don't toss it upwards! - and kick, following through to land on the kicking foot. The kicking foot should be straight, directly on line with the target, and should not swing around the body.
• 
  

• Drop Kicks
  A drop kick, where the ball hits the ground before being contacted by the foot, gives a lower trajectory ball. This makes it better for driving into the wind and makes it easier for teammates to receive. It does not have quite the distance of a punt, however. The technique is very much the same as a punt, except the kick is timed so the foot strikes the ball just after it bounces on the ground. The drop kick has a distinctive "ba-DUM" sound you can listen for: the "ba" is the ball hitting the ground; the "DUM" is the foot striking the ball a fraction of a second later.

Timing is everything for both punts and drop kicks. Just like free-throw shooting in basketball, kicking distribution must be practiced over and over until the timing becomes automatic. Don't be discouraged when kicks are very inconsistent at first - time and lots of practice will improve things.

Goal Kicks

Goalkeepers ought to take their own goal kicks if possible. This allows the defence to push out and keep attackers from lurking about near the penalty area and ensures that defenders are marked up and organized in case of a quick change of possession.

As with punts and drop kicks, technique is the key. Power is usually less of an issue than the ability to get some loft on the ball to increase the distance. Keys to getting a good goal kick are:

• Approach the ball from a slight angle. This will allow the hip flexor to get involved more and generate more leg speed. Make sure the follow through is straight at the target, though.

• The ankle of the plant foot should be just behind the ball and the body should be leaning back. This differs from shooting technique! If the plant foot is too close to the ball, it will be difficult to get any height on the kick.

• The final step into the kick should be a long, smooth stride. This also helps generate leg speed. A short, choppy run-up won't allow a proper leg swing.

• The toe needs to be pointed slightly outwards (ankle locked!) in order to get the foot under the ball. This is probably the most crucial point. Although a goal kick is an instep drive, you want to use the inside of the shoelaces, not the top. The foot should be angled outward so the contact point is on the lower half of the ball, just above the first joint of the big toe on the inside of the instep (Fig. 1). An analogy I like to use is that of a golf wedge versus a driver. The foot should be more like a wedge in order to get under the ball and give the it proper trajectory and distance.

• If the kicks are long but tend to curl and affect accuracy, watch the point where the foot strikes the ball. With an angled approach and long swing, the natural tendency will be to hit an "inswinging" ball; to counteract this, the strike point should be just to the "inside" of the ball (just to the left of centre on the ball for a right footed kicker, vice versa for lefties).

If a keeper is struggling to get the ball off the ground, it can be helpful to try working off a "tee" at first: a tall tuft of grass, flat cone, etc. This will allow more space to get under the ball. Once that is working well, lower the ball. You shouldn't need a specialized keeper coach to help with goal kicks; any good soccer coach should be able to help you tune up your place kick.

A final word on kicks: let your good technique do the work for you! A goalkeeperwho tries too hard to "explode" the ball will likely mis-hit the ball and suffer inconsistency. Relax, and let the mechanics of the kick work for you.

Throws

Throws are usually much shorter than kicks, but much more accurate. A quick throw right to the feet of an open teammate is often the safest distribution. The goalkeeper has several basic throws available. I've listed them here in order of decreasing accuracy and increasing distance.

For the javelin, sidearm and overhand throw, the trajectory of the soccer ball should be mostly level or even downwards, not high and looping. We want the ball to hit the ground in front of the receiver, to give it time to settle on the grass and make for an easy trap. A rule of thumb is to have the ball initially hit the ground about two-thirds of the way to the receiver.

Fig. 2: The Roll

Roll The roll (Fig. 2) is the most accurate but shortest distribution. It is also typically the easiest for teammates to receive. Control the ball between the palm of the hand and the forearm with a bent wrist, step with the opposite foot, and "bowl" the ball, making sure the fingertips touch the ground on the delivery. This will require bending the knees and waist to get low enough. Just like in real bowling, you don't want to drop the ball from the hand to the ground. The transition should be smooth.

Fig. 3: Javelin Throw

Javelin or Baseball Throw
In the middle of the accuracy and distance scale is the javelin or baseball throw (Fig. 3). The form is similar to how a javelin is thrown. The ball starts in the palm beside the head and is thrown straight forward as the keeper steps into the throw. Some backspin on the ball will help it "sit down" and make it easier to receive, so the keeper can let the ball roll of their fingertips slightly at the end of the release to provide this. Make sure the fingers are slightly over the top of the ball to keep it on a level or downward trajectory.

Fig. 4: Sidearm Throw

Sidearm Throw
The sidearm throw (Fig. 4) lies between the javelin and overhand throw in both distance and accuracy, and also in its delivery. The arm is extended back slightly behind the body at a "three-quarters" angle, not straight to the side but just below shoulder level. The ball is delivered with a bit of a slinging, sweeping motion. Because the arm position is sideways, the best way to put backspin on this throw is by passing the palm of the hand under the ball upon release, letting the ball roll off the middle and index finger and the thumb. Again, keep the fingers over the top of the ball so it stays low.

Fig. 5: Overhand Throw

Overhand Throw
The overhand throw or "sling" is the longest but least accurate throw (Fig. 5). It can be a good technique for very young players, since sometimes they can actually throw it as far as they can punt. The soccer ball is again controlled between the palm and forearm with a bent wrist. The arm is placed almost straight back, and as the keeper steps into the throw, the arm is fully extended, elbow locked, and brought around in a circle, over the head, and released towards the target. The hand should end pointing at the target, and letting the fingertips roll under the ball at the finish can provide some backspin to help the ball roll smoothly.

This is technically the most difficult throw. The hand must stay on top of the ball throughout the 180 degrees or so of arc; centrifugal force keeps the ball in place, much like water stays in a bucket when it's whirled around on a rope. The elbow must remain locked until the release, and the release point is critical. Often times the elbow will bend as the ball comes over the head, destroying the flow of the throw. Make sure the elbow stays locked, the ball comes high over the head, and then is released.

Quick Summary - Kick Distribution:	Mistakes to Watch For:
Hold ball with both hands Step into kick at slight angle Plant foot should point towards target Drop the ball Kick straight at target and follow through Goal kicks: Approach at a slight angle Goal kicks: Plant foot behind ball Goal kicks: Foot angled outward to get under the ball	Run-up uneven/too long/too short Tossing the ball in the air Plant foot pointing wrong direction Kicking foot swinging around body instead of straight Poor follow-through Goal kicks: Approach/foot angle too straight-on Goal kicks: Plant foot too close to ball
Quick Summary - Throw Distribution:	Mistakes to watch for:
Roll - most accuracy, least distance Javelin throw - medium accuracy and distance Javelin throw starts from beside head Sidearm throw - medium accuracy and distance Overhand throw - least accurate, most distance Overhand throw must keep hand on top, elbow locked Roll fingers under ball at end to provide backspin for javelin and overhand throws Throws should have low trajectory and hit the ground a bit before they reach the receiver Goalkeeper Distribution, How to be a Goalkeeper A goalie training football exercise for youth Soccer Keepers, players who use Sells, Umbro,	Ball drops from hand to ground on roll Step with same side foot on roll High, arcing throws that are difficult to receive Javelin throw does not start behind head Ball not secure between palm and forearm on overhand throw On overhand throw, elbow not locked or bends halfway though throw Overhand throw not given full 180-degree rotation Poor release point on overhand throw

LANE SOCCER

Use Lane Soccer to teach teach transition, communication, fitness, spacing and off-the-ball movement to young soccer players.

Set up for lane soccer: Use a lined practice pitch or two rows of cones to divide the field vertically into three equal size rectangles.  Play 3v3 (one player in each zone) or 4v4 (two players in the centre zone). Goalkeepers are optional.

The basic game of lane soccer: Each team must have at least one player in each of the three zones.  They can receive, pass and dribble but can't go out of their zone.  They run, get open and mark defensively inside their zone.  If they leave their zone (even if it is just by stepping over the line), they concede a free kick wherever the infringement took place.

After a few scores, swap the players to a new zone. 

This taught my players to immediately get wide the minute that their team stole the ball and to space properly.

Variations:

1.  After playing 3v3 widen the centre lane and play 4v4 (2v2 in the centre lane) as in the illustration.

2.  When playing 4v4 allow two players of each team to be in any lane at one time.  If a third player from that team wants to enter that same lane, one of the two players from his team must leave the lane before he can enter it.   This requires lots of communication and ingenuity to get numbers up quickly on your opponents.  It also teaches players to make "ball side" runs within their lanes to receive the ball.

3. Set up three teams of 4 players and two teams play on the field and winning team stays on. Winning can be one, two or three goals. We play just one goal wins a game. When playing "winners stay on" we add these conditions for balls played out of bounds: Balls kicked over the end line outside of goal result in corner kick or goal kicks, BUT balls kicked across the touch-line mean an automatic loss for team that last touched the ball. The team sitting out must be ready to immediately defend their goal (or attack) when the ball goes out of touch.

4. Do not assign players to a specific zone and allow movement between zones provided at least one player from each team is in each zone.

Offensively, this activity will encourage teams to switch balls quickly (looking for 1 v 1 situations or numbers up situations before the other team can switch quickly) and defensively this is working on constant communication.  If, at any time, a team doesn’t have a player in each section, it’s a point for the other team.

Additional helpful ideas from Coach Orlay Johnson:

       I love Ken's lane games and have used them almost every practice in some shape, manner, or form. Yes, you can use four lanes, but three is a little easier to deal with and forces more team play (see below). One of the best adaptations of lanes is to help the defence understand the complexities and advantages of zonal play, or flat back four, or whatever you want to call it.

       I am really into running practices where players are forced to make various decisions on how they will play. So i used something similar to Ken's 1 and 2 options (above), but focus on defence and give them restrictions on how they play - one would be you must stay in your lanes, but one player can move lanes and be a stopper or sweeper, then after a few minutes tell them to switch to straight zonal defence. Then a combination. Another day you might tell them that the defence has to protect one of your defenders who is slow or hurt (tell her she can only walk, not run). Another is to switch from 2 defenders in centre lane, to 2 in left lane, and see how long it takes the offence to figure it out (longer than you'd think).     

6 goal game

develop team tactical awareness while practicing defending and attacking skills.

The Game

2 even teams. Each team defends their 3 goals, and tries to score in the opponents 3 goals. The team with most goals wins.

 
Defending zonally since the 3 goals force a team to defend 'numbers down'.

ediate counter attack when ball is won.

Try These Variations

• Dribble through the goals instead of passing. (Make goals 10 yds.wide)

• Goals must come off a 'one touch'

• Limit attackers to '2 touches'

basic foot skill games

The games described below can easily be incorporated into practice sessions for young children. They're fun, simple to explain and help reinforce basic skills without any pressure.

Red Light – Green Light

For the very young Under 6 the game of Red Light – Green Light is an easy game to learn and teaches the children to keep the ball close and under control.

THE GAME

Each player has a ball, except the one player that is designated as the "light".

Lines from start to finish should be approximately 20 - 30 yards.

Players start from the line opposite the "light".

The "light" then turns away from the group shouting out "GREEN LIGHT".

At this signal, the players start to dribble towards the "light".

When the "light" turns round, calling "RED LIGHT", players must freeze and stop their ball.

If the "light" catches players or a ball stillmoving that player must take 5 steps back.

The first player to cross the line where the "light" is standing is the winner and becomes the new "light".

You can start the game withoutusing balls for younger players, then have them roll the ball with their hands, then use their feet. 

North –South – East and West

Players dribble where the coach tells them to, i.e. a direction as suggested in the title or you can make it a colour or an animal, whatever. This again teaches the children to keep the ball close and , hopefully, shows them how to change a direction.

Draw

This is a very popular game with the younger crowd. Place players in 2 lines facing each other. Place one football in the middle of the each two players .

The object of the game is to drawthe ball back using the sole of the foot. The command to “Draw” is given by the coach. The fun part is that the coach has to tell a story in which he uses the word “draw” to signal the players.

For example: Willy and his sister were working on cleaning their rooms. Willy

said “where should I put these socks? And his sister replied , “In your Drawer.” Make up really silly stories.

You can add progression to this drill by having the players jog in place, have the players only use the non-dominant foot, have the players move up a ladder if they win and down if they lose the round and see who can get to the top first.

"GET EM"

Here is a game which involves both passing and dribbling that is fun and engages players quickly. Also, although primarily an individual exercise that allows for differences in ability level, if the players are ready, it can quickly become a cooperative game where players work together to solve a challenge.

The Game

• Each player will need a ball. Player 'A' is "It" and is the only player to start with a ball. All the other players around the outside of the grided space.

• Player 'A' dribbles and tries to hit the other players below the waist with the ball.

• When hit, that player gets a ball and joins player 'A'.

• The game is over when all of the players have been caught.

• The last player caught is “It” and starts with the ball for the next game.

If you think the task will be too difficult for the one player to get another at the

start of the game, start with 2 players being "It".

Coaching Points of Get-Em

• Encourage quick movements and sudden changes of direction to catch players off guard.

• Players not caught should run, jump, and use zig-zag movements.

A variation can be added by having all players play with a ball

RUNNING BASES

Here is another game that emphasizes dribbling that is fun and challenging for players. Again, primarily it is an individual game that could lend itself to small group cooperation if the players are ready.

The Game

Each player will need a ball, except those that have been designated as "It". Players that are "It" need to carry a coloured bib or flag in their hand. Players with a ball try to dribble without being tagged. If they are, they exchange places with the "tagger" (The "tagger" hands the bib to the dribbler and takes their ball).

Dribblers are safe in one of the designated bases. Only one player is allowed in a base at a time. if a new player enters a base, the old player must leave the base.

Add "taggers" when the players find the game to be easy.

It seems about right to have one base for every 3 players, but, this number can be adjusted either way to make the game constantly interesting.

This game can also be played by only allowing the "tagger" to "get" someone by kicking their ball away, not just "tagging" the person. (a variation on Shark)

Experiment with different combinations of "taggers" and bases to keep the players engaged.

Basic Passing Game U7: Trick or Treat

This is a drill suggested by Ivan Mann, a coaching colleague from the soccercoach- l mailing list.

Set Up and Execution

Make a square with pretty small sides - players line up on each side. Put an adult in the middle of each side (that means four adults) holding a dozen or so flat cones (you could use anything else similar size and shape). 50 cones or 50 slips of construction paper will do.

On a go signal, players dribble across the square, stop the ball with a foot on it, say “Trick or Treat”, take a cone from an adult, turn the ball, dribble back across, take a cone, etc. When all the cones are gone, who has the most? This requires dribbling at speed, avoiding the clump in the middle, controlling the ball around an opponent, but minimal coordination holding the cones.

After a few rounds dribble across the square, dribble around the coach, and then stop the ball, say "Trick or treat," etc. Or place the adults randomly in the square, moving at a walking pace. This makes them keep their heads up and look for the target (i.e. the adult)

4v4 games designed to improve passing, dribbling and shooting skills

4 v. 4 The Basic Game

Size of Field

Depends on the age of players. Can vary from 30 yd. x 20 yd. up to 40 yd. x 25 yd.. The goals are 8 feet wide.

The Team In Possession of the Ball

When the Other Team Has the Ball

4 v. 4 Line Soccer

Variations of the 4 v. 4 Game

Using slightly different sizes of goals, differing methods to score, and slightly altered size and shape of field can guide players to solve problems by emphasizing certain aspects of play.

4 v. 4 Line Soccer

4 v. 4 The Dribbling Game

The Game

Same field as the "Line Soccer" game, a wide, short field. teams can score in one of 2 ways. Passing into an open goal or by stopping the ball on the endline between the two goals they are attacking.

What The Game Incorporates

4 v. 4 The Passing Game

The Game

Since the playing area is longer than it is wide, the emphasis is on creating length (height) in the game. In this game, there is a premium placed on playing the ball forward early. The ball can be played early:

Scoring

This Game Emphasizes

 Transitions

The Game

While one team attacks the large goal, the opposition attacks either of the two smaller goals. When the team scores in one of the two smaller goals, they must change directions and take a turn at attacking the larger goal.

This Game Emphasizes

4 v. 4 The Shooting Game

The priority of this game is shooting and scoring. Since the field is wide and short, players should be looking to shoot almost whenever they get the ball. Game played like a regular 4 v. 4 match.

• Can learn and determine team shape, which, in a group of 4 resembles a diamond.
• Can create goal scoring opportunities by taking action either individually or collectively.
• The aim is to prevent goals from being scored by getting behind the ball and to regain possession of the ball.
• Simple principles of defending are reinforced and amplified since there is no spare defender or goalkeeper.
• Each team has a line to defend and attack.
• Score a goal by dribbling the ball over any portion of the line that your team is attacking.
• The size of the field is the same as a standard 4 v. 4 game, but it is turned sideways. The wider, shorter field allows for maintaining good shape (diamond), but also creates many good 1 v. 1 situations which challenges the player's dribbling skills.
• Players need to evaluate and identify when to dribble and pass. This variation highlights: The correct attitude (when to take a risk aggressively) and the technical development and execution of dribbling.
• Vision
• Changes in the direction and speed of play due to the shape of the field and presence of multiple goals.
• Decision making skills because the player has a variety of options at his disposal (dribbling, passing, "shooting", changing directions)
• To a target player who is coming back for the ball with a defender behind them (as shown in diagram).
• To a player running forward away from the server.
• Stopping the ball anywhere on the line.
• Passing the ball through an open goal.
• Vision
• Changes in direction and speed of play.
• Appropriate use of firm touch.
• Long and short passing.
• Attitude and confidence that is essential for scoring goals. (Large net)
• Passing, shooting and dribbling skills required in the other 4 v. 4 games.
• Transition awareness since the team can attack quickly in the other direction.
• Team shape and the roles of each player because when there is a transition, the back becomes the front and vice versa.

SOCCER AGILITY DRILLS

from blast the ball.com

Use these simple football (soccer) agility drills to improve your balance, body control, foot speed and co-ordination.

Like speed drills, soccer agility drills should not be physically exhausting...

A slow jog or walk between each drill should allow complete recovery. The emphasis must be on quality and form.

Because these soccer agility drills are not physically demanding, you can perform them any time during the week and on any day. One quick tip however...

Many coaches like to get all the intense physical training out of the way before move on to (more enjoyable?) skill practise. The problem is skills need to be performed with near perfect form. Practise does NOT make perfect - it makes permanent. So rehearse getting it right!

With that in mind I would perform soccer agility drills and skill work after the warm up before moving into more enervating, fitness drills. A typical agility session could consist of 3-5 sets of 10 repetitions in total (a repetition being one drill).

1. Weave In - Weave Out
1. Place 4 markers out in a straight line approximately 3 yards apart.
2. In between each set of markers place another marker only 3 yards to the left.(see diagram right)
3. Sprint from one marker to the next bending down to touch each one with your hand.
4. The emphasis is on taking quick side steps, rather than turning to face the marker and sprinting forward - that takes more time (which don't have in a game).


2. Follow the Leader
1. Mark out a large area - 20 yards by 20 yards for example.
2. Pair up with a team mate and have them run randomly within the area.
3. Try to maintain 2 yards distance from them at all times. Your team mate should be changing direction and pace constantly.


3. Box Drill
1. Use 4 cones or markers to mark out a square approximately 5yards by 5yards.
2. Place a cone in the centre of the square. This is your starting position.
3. Give each corner a number and remember it! Have a team mate (or your coach) call numbers at random.
4. Sprint to the corner shouted and return to the middle.

4. Mini Shuttle
1. Place 2 markers 20 yards apart. Place marker in the middle only 3 yards to the side.(see diagram left)
2. Starting from the middle marker sprint to one end (10 yards), turn and immediately sprint to the other end (20 yards) and then back to the start (10 yards).
3. Turn on a different foot at each marker and try to touch the ground with your hand.


5. Super Shuttle
1. Set a series of cones out in a cross formation.(see diagram right)
2. Run backwards to the centre cone, side step to the right cone (or your left if you are performing the drill), side step back to the centre cone still facing the same way.
3. At the centre cone turn and sprint forward to the end cone. Now run back to the centre cone, side step to the left, side step back to the centre, then turn and sprint back to the start.
4. Phew! Sounds complicated - it's not - the diagram explains it quicker than I can!


6. Slalom
1. Place 10 shuttles in a line 5 yards apart.
2. Weave in and out as fast as possible and walk back to the start.
3. This exercise is often performed much more slowly with a ball. The goal here is to develop speed of leg movement so no ball is used.

Use the soccer agility drills above as they are or adapt them to fit your individual or team's needs.

 ACADEMY FOOTBALL FITNESS 16 WEEKS REGIME

HOT POTATO

Aim Small, Miss Small, Steal the Bacon & War

by coach Patrick Grimes

improve your team's shooting accuracy!

       EQUIPMENT: 2 footballs, 2 cones, 1 tarp and bungee cords or rope
 

·        NUMBER OF PLAYERS: Whole team
 

After watching two games in a row where my team shot over and over directly to the opponent's goalkeeper, I decided that I needed to do something drastic to change their thought process about shooting. Although I had told them many times in practice that they needed to shoot for the low corners as a general rule, they just didn't get what I was trying to emphasise. In frustration at our last game, I joked to the assistant coach, "I'm going to cover up the middle of the goal with a tarp next practice - let's see how they like that!" But then I thought, "Hey - that's not a bad idea..."

SETUP: I arranged the old tent tarp to cover up the centre 1/3 of the goal, covering it from top to bottom. The tarp has nice grommet holes in it to lace your rope over the goal, or to attach the bungee cords to. I put the equipment bag on the bottom (inside the goal) of the tarp to keep it from blowing in the breeze.

I placed a football in each side area on top of a cone. You don't really need the cones, but the kids get a kick out of knocking things down versus just hitting them.

I talked to the kids and explained that the giant blue tarp represented the area where the goalkeeper would easily save a shot, and the basketballs were the nearly perfect areas to shoot at. In order to hit the balls, you have to "aim small, miss small". You can't just "kick the ball at the goal" which is what I think we were doing in the past. You have to accurately select your target, and aim right for it!
 

POINT SYSTEM:
1: Any shot in the goal not hitting the target ball
2: Knocking the ball off the cone
-1: Hitting the tarp (Negative one point)

 GAMEPLAY

        I ran my entire practice around this silly tarp, and it was awesome! The first few minutes there were a lot of shots into the tarp, but by the end of our hour together, I would estimate that 1 in 10 were hitting the tarp, and about 1 in 5 were knocking a ball off of its cone!

      You can turn almost any drill into this game, and I rewarded the kids as teams or as individuals when they had high scores after each section. Then we would start over the scoring again for the next time.
 

·        DRIBBLING: We dribbled through cones, ending with coming around a cone for the shot. Worked left and right sides. You can make your own dribbling games end with a shot this way.
 

·        SHOOTING: We worked around the perimeter of the penalty area (vary by age) shooting from multiple spots right after one another to keep it lively and minimal standing around.
 

GAMES

Steal the Baconworks great here. Count off your team into two equal groups. Each group should have a "Player 1", a "Player 2", et cetera. It's best if both of the same number kids are similar in skills and size. Line up each team on their own side of the penalty area line to start. The coach throws up a ball in the middle (about at the penalty spot) and calls out a single number (or sets of numbers as you want to increase intensity). The players with the number called race to the ball to control it, shield off the other player, and take a shot. Keep score for each side. Coaches can help to influence the game a little with "errant" throws that may benefit a slower player. Creative cheating from the coach! We always finish with a tie score and *all* of the numbers get called for the final ball.

War: Split the team into 2 groups. Players take shots from the penalty mark. If they hit the tarp, they go to the end of the other line (the other team). If they make it, they go to the end of their own line. If they knock off a basketball, the last player in the opponents line goes to the end of their line.

4 square soccer

A small sided soccer coaching game that encourages players to spread out and play in designated positions.

from the excellent coaching manual Playing Better Soccer is More Fun

Number of players: 4v4 (or 5v5 if you use goalkeepers)

Age group: U10 upwards

Set up: divide a 40x30 grid (with a goal at each end) into four quarters using flat cones or lines.

Set up (contd): assign the following positions to the players in both teams: defender, left midfield player, right midfield player and attacker.

Procedure: The defender works in the two squares nearest her goal, the left midfield player must stay in the two squares on the left of the grid, the right mid player works in the two squares on the right of the grid and the attacker plays in the two squares nearest the other teams goal. Otherwise, normal soccer rules apply.

Play to a set number of goals or for a set time. You could also award 'goals' for a set number of passes.

Tip: encourage quick shooting and tight defending by not having goalkeepers and making the goals big. The younger the players, the bigger the goal should be.

Academy Football Fitness 16 Weeks Regime

This has been taken from a premiership clubs football academy as a training regime for individuals to improve there overall fitness.

Week 1 of 16 weeks of academy football fitness regime.

Day 1
· Walk-jog for 20 minutes (jog for 2min, walk for 2min, etc)
· 1 x press-up max score
· 2 x 5 dorsal raises
· 2 x 5 tricep dips
· 1 x sit-up max score
· Rest 30-90 sec between sets

Day 2 · Rest day

Day 3
· 10-minute warm-up
· Run fast for 30sec, rest for 2 minutes, repeat 5 times
· 10-minute cool-down

Day 4 · Rest day

Day 5
· Walk-jog for 20 minutes (walk for 1min, jog for 3min, repeat 5 times)
· 1 x press-up max
· 1 x 5 dorsal raises
· 1 x 5 tricep dips
· 1 x sit-up max

Day 6 · Rest day

Day 7
· Brisk walk for 20-30 minutes or go swimming, cycling or rowing for 15-20min

Week 2

Day 1
· Walk-jog for 20 minutes (walk for 1min, jog for 3min, etc)
· 2 x press-up max
· 2 x 6 dorsal raises
· 2 x 6 tricep dips
· 2 x sit-up max
· Rest 30-90sec between sets

Day 2 · Rest day

Day 3
· 10-minute warm-up
· Run fast for 40 sec, rest for 2 minutes, repeat 5 times
· 10-minute cool-down

Day 4 · Rest day

Day 5
· Walk-jog for 20 minutes (jog for 4min, walk for 1min, repeat 4 times)
· 2 x press-up max
· 2 x 6 dorsal raises
· 2 x 6 tricep dips
· 2 x sit-up max

Day 6 · Rest day

Day 7
· Brisk walk for 20-30 minutes or go swimming, cycling or rowing for 15-20min

Week 3

Day 1
· Jog for 20 minutes (jog for 5min, rest for 1min, etc)
· 3 x 1/4 press-up max
· 2 x 7 dorsal raises
· 2 x 7 tricep dips
· 3 x 1/2 sit-up max
· Rest 30-90sec between sets

Day 2 · Rest day

Day 3
· 10-minute warm-up
· Run fast for 1 minute, run slowly for 2min, repeat 5 times
· 10-minute cool-down

Day 4 · Rest day

Day 5
· Walk-jog for 15 minutes
· 3 x press-up max
· 2 x 7 dorsal raises
· 2 x 7 tricep dips
· 3 x sit-up max

Day 6 · Rest day

Day 7
· Brisk walk for 25-35 minutes or go swimming, cycling or rowing for 15-25min

Week 4

Day 1
· Jog for 15 minutes
· 3 x 1/3 press-up max
· 2 x 8 dorsal raises
· 2 x 8 tricep dips
· 3 x 1/3 sit-up max
· Rest 30-90sec between sets

Day 2 · Rest day

Day 3
· 10-minute warm-up
· Run fast for 1 minutes, run slowly for 1min, repeat 5 times
· 10-minute cool-down

Day 4 · Rest day

Day 5
· Brisk walk for 25-35 minutes or go swimming, cycling or rowing for 15-25min

Day 6 · Rest day

Day 7: fitness assessment
· Press-ups for 2 minutes to establish new max score
· Sit-ups for 2min to establish new max score
· 1.5-mile timed run

Level 2
Week 5

Day 1
· Steady run for 18 minutes
· 3 x press-up max
· 3 x 8 squats
· 3 x sit-up max
· 3 x 8 dorsal raises
· Rest 30-90sec between sets

Day 2 · Rest day

Day 3
· 10-15 minute warm-up
· Run hard for 1 minute, recover for 1 min, repeat for 10min
· 10-minute cool-down

Day 4
· Rest day

Day 5
· 10-minute warm-up
· Circuit training: 2 x 12 of each exercise (see below for list)
· 10-minute cool-down

Day 6
· Rest day

Day 7
· Brisk walk for 30-40 minutes or go swimming, cycling or rowing for 15-20min

Week 6

Day 1
· Steady run for 20 minutes
· 3 x press-up max
· 3 x 10 lunges
· 3 x sit-up max
· 3 x 8 dorsal raises
· Rest 30-90sec between sets

Day 2 · Rest day

Day 3
· 10-15 minute warm-up
· Run hard for 1 minute, recover for 1 min, continue for 10min
· 10-minute cool-down
Day 4
· Rest day
Day 5
· 10-minute warm-up
· Circuit training: 2 x 12 of each exercise (see below for list)
· 10-minute cool-down

Day 6
· Rest day

Day 7
· Brisk walk for 30-40 minutes or go swimming, cycling or rowing for 20-25min

Week 7

Day 1
· Steady run for 20 minutes
· 3 x press-up max
· 3 x 12 squats
· 3 x sit-up max
· 3 x 12 dorsal raises
· Rest 30-90sec between sets

Day 2 · Rest day

• Tony's soccer school home
  

Day 3
· 10-15 minute warm-up
· Run hard for 1 minute, recover for 1 min, continue for 12min
· 10-minute cool-down
Day 4
· Rest day
Day 5
· 10-minute warm-up
· Circuit training: 3 x 12 of each exercise (see below for list)
· 10-minute cool-down
Day 6
· Rest day
WWW.TONYS-SOCCER-SCHOOL.COM
Day 7
· Brisk walk for 30-40 minutes or go swimming, cycling or rowing for 20-25min

Week 8

Day 1
· Steady run for 25-30 minutes
· 3 x press-up max
· 3 x14 lunges
· 3 x sit-up max
· 3 x 14 dorsal raises
· Rest 30-90sec between sets

Day 2 · Rest day

Day 3
· 10-15 minute warm-up
· Run hard for 1 minute, recover for 1 min, continue for 12min
· 10-minute cool-down

Day 4 · Rest day

Day 5
· 10-minute warm-up
· Brisk walk-run for 30-40 minutes or go swimming, cycling or rowing for 30-40min
· 10-minute cool-down

Day 6 · Rest day

Day 7: fitness assessment
· Press-ups for 2 minutes to establish new max score
· Sit-ups for 2min to establish new max score
· 1.5-mile timed run

Level 3

Week 9

Day 1
· Steady run for 25-30 minutes
· 4 x press-up max
· 4 x 12 squats
· 4 x sit-up max
· 4 x 12 dorsal raises
· Rest 30-90sec between sets
Day 2
· Rest day
Day 3
· 10-15 minute warm-up
· Run hard for 1 minute, recover for 1 min, continue for 14min
· 10-minute cool-down
WWW.TONYS-SOCCER-SCHOOL.COM

Day 4 · Rest day

Day 5
· 10-minute warm-up
· Circuit training: 3 x 15 of each exercise (see below for list)
· 10-minute cool-down

Day 6 · Rest day

Day 7
· Brisk walk for 30-40 minutes or go swimming, cycling or rowing for 20-25min
Week 10

Day 1
· Steady run for 25-30 minutes
· 4 x press-up max
· 4 x 14 lunges
· 4 x sit-up max
· 4 x 14 dorsal raises
· Rest 30-90sec between sets

Day 2 · Rest day

Day 3
· 10-15 minute warm-up
· Run hard for 1 minute, recover for 1 min, continue for 14min
· 10-minute cool-down
Day 4
· Rest day
Day 5
· 10-minute warm-up
· Circuit training: 3 x 15 of each exercise (see below for list)
· 10-minute cool-down

Day 6
· Rest day

Day 7
· Brisk walk for 30-40 minutes or go swimming, cycling or rowing for 25-30min
Week 11

Day 1
· Steady run for 25-30 minutes
· 4 x 20 chin-ups
· 4 x 16 squats
· 4 x sit-up max
· 4 x 16 dorsal raises
· Rest 30-90sec between sets

Day 2 · Rest day

Day 3
· 10-15 minute warm-up
· Run hard for 1 minute, recover for 1 min, continue for 16min
· 10-minute cool-down
WWW.TONYS-SOCCER-SCHOOL.COM

Day 4 · Rest day

Day 5
· 10-minute warm-up
· Circuit training: 3 x 20 of each exercise (see below for list)
· 10-minute cool-down

Day 6 · Rest day

Day 7
· Brisk walk for 30-40 minutes or go swimming, cycling or rowing for 20-25min

Week 12

Day 1
· Steady run for 25-30 minutes
· 4 x press-up max
· 4 x 18 lunges
· 4 x sit-up max
· 4 x 18 dorsal raises
· 4 x 12 triceps dips
· Rest 30-90sec between sets

Day 2 · Rest day

Day 3
· 10-15 minute warm-up
· Run hard for 1 minute, recover for 1 min, continue for 16min
· 10-minute cool-down
Day 4
· Rest day
Day 5
· 10-minute warm-up
· Brisk walk/run for 30-40 minutes or go swimming, cycling or rowing for 30-
40min
· 10-minute cool-down
Day 6
· Rest day
Day 7: fitness assessment
· Press-ups for 2 minutes to establish new max score
· Sit-ups for 2 minutes to establish new max score
· 1.5-mile timed run

Level 4

Week 13

Day 1
· Steady run for 30-40 minutes
· 2 x press-ups for 45sec
· 4 x 15 squats
· 2 x sit-ups for 45sec
· 4 x 15 dorsal raises
· Rest 30-90sec between sets

Day 2 · Rest day

Day 3
· 10-15 minute warm-up
· Alternate runing hard, then recovering, for intervals of 1,2 and 3 minutes
(12min in total)
· 10-minute cool-down

Day 4 · Rest day

Day 5
· 10-minute warm-up
· Circuit training: 4 x 15-20 of each exercise (see below for list)
· 10-minute cool-down
Day 6
· Rest day
Day 7
· Brisk walk for 30-40 minutes or go swimming, cycling or rowing for 25-35min
Week 14
Day 1
· Steady run for 30-40 minutes
· 2 x press-ups for 45sec
· 4 x 15 lunges
· 2 x sit-ups for 45sec
· 4 x 15 dorsal raises
· Rest 30-90sec between sets
Day 2
· Rest day
WWW.TONYS-SOCCER-SCHOOL.COM
Day 3
· 10-15 minute warm-up
· Alternate running hard, then recovering, for intervals of 1,2 and 3 minutes
· 10-minute cool-down
Day 4
· Rest day
Day 5
· 10-minute warm-up
· Circuit training: 4 x 15-20 of each exercise (see below for list)
· 10-minute cool-down
Day 6
· Rest day
Day 7
· Brisk walk for 30-40 minutes or go swimming, cycling or rowing for 30-35min
Week 15
Day 1
· Steady run for 30-40 minutes
· 2 x press-ups for 1min
· 4 x 20 squats

 2 x sit-ups for 1min
· 4 x 20 dorsal raises
· 4 x 12 triceps dips
· Rest 30-90sec between sets
Day 2
· Rest day
Day 3
· 10-15 minute warm-up
· Alternate running hard, then recovering, for intervals of 1,2,3,2 and 1 minute
(18min in total)
· 10-minute cool-down
Day 4
· Rest day
Day 5
· 10-minute warm-up
· Circuit training: 4 x 15-20 of each exercise (see below for list)
· 10-minute cool-down
Day 6
· Rest day
Day 7
· Brisk walk for 30-40 minutes or go swimming, cycling or rowing for 30-40min
Week 16
Day 1
· Steady run for 30-40 minutes
· 2 x press-ups for 1min
· 4 x 20 squats
· 2 x sit-ups for 1min
· 4 x 20 dorsal raises
· 4 x 12 chin-ups
· Rest 30-90sec between sets
Day 2
· Rest day
Day 3
· 10-15 minute warm-up
· Alternate running hard, then recovering, for intervals of 1,2,3,2 and 1 minute
· 10-minute cool-down
WWW.TONYS-SOCCER-SCHOOL.COM
Day 4
· Rest day
Day 5
· 10-minute warm-up
· Brisk walk/run for 30-40 minutes or go swimming, cycling or rowing for 30-
40min
· 10-minute cool-down
Day 6
· Rest day
Day 7: fitness assessment
· Press-ups for 2 minutes to establish new max score
· Sit-ups for 2min to establish new max score
· 1.5-mile timed run

Team Phases In Football

Shape and movement in a Team

by Bob Christensen

Team Phasesensure that you try to maintain a good attacking and defensive shape throughout the game. This is absolutely essential before we begin to work on positions. These principles apply to ALL PLAYERS, in ALL PARTS OF THE FIELD!! Generally, we want to spread out on the attack, and compact-in on defence.

We want to take more risks in the attacking third of the field, and play very conservatively in our defending third. Fill the diamond on attack, and recover and cover for your team-mates on defence. We will work on this a lot this week.

What to tell your children:

Attacking Shape A Great Team Phase Practice Plan

1) KEEP POSSESSION

2) Create or fill left and right (square) passing options IMMEDIATELY!!

a) Adjust constantly to be open and visible

b) Have adequate space - about 10 yards from ball carrier

c) Only one player in each support position. If one moves, FILL IT!

3) Make sure a back pass option is available can be to the keeper-(to the side of the goal please!)

b) TALK to the ball carrier - especially if they have their head down or if there is a defender closing from behind!!

4) If you are covered, MOVE. This draws away a defender and causes confusion for the opponent.

5) After passing, MOVE TO SPACE!

6) Look to fill the through-pass slot (go deep)

a) Adjust constantly to be open and visible

b) Try to draw defenders from the ball carrier if you are closely marked.

7) Movement is good, especially cross-field movement.

8) MOVE IF YOU ARE COVERED!!

Defensive Shape Team Phase in Coaching

1) 1st Defender: Pressure the ball IMMEDIATELY!

a) Do not dive in, just slow the attack down and make it predictable. PATIENCE!!

i) Eyes on the ball

ii) Weight even between legs, and forward on toes, knees bent

iii) Feet shoulder width apart, one foot forward

b) Do not mark too close until you have help- you may be beaten by a wall pass in soccer.

c) Mark close enough that the attacker has to keep her head down looking at the ball.

d) Herd the attacker towards the touch line (side line).

e) Tackle only if you are sure to win the ball, and have a teammate covering behind you.

i) Risk tackles more in the offensive third of the field (closer to the opponents goal)

ii) Tackle if the attacker is alone and outnumbered.

iii) Tackle if you can touch the ball before the attacker can.

iv) Do not tackle if you are the last defender!

2) 2nd Defender: Cover the space behind the 1st defender. LET THE 1st DEFENDER KNOW YOU ARE THERE!

a) Be a little bit toward the goal side usually.

3) 3rd Defender: Cut off passing options, especially square (cross-field) passes.

a) You can either mark the receivers, or the space between them and the ball.

4) RECOVER - It is never to late to run back and help your teammates.

5) STAY COMPACT - Do not be drawn out of shape.

6) Make sure that the far post area is covered as the ball nears your goal.

a) Do not be caught ball watching. Track players moving forward.

b) Do not release your mark to go after a back pass unless you are CERTAIN that a teammate is there to cover, AND does not have a mark of his own to cover! Usually this means the covering player TELLS YOU TO GO.

So tell your children to communicate!

 TEAM PHASES

TAG: Team, Phase, phases, team phases, Shape, Movement,soccer, youth, coaching, practice plan,

Across the line

improves dribbling, ball control and communication

soccer coaching faults and fixes charts

control, receiving, dribbling and passing

These charts are a useful reminder of how to fix the most common ball control faults.

HOW TO PRACTICE PLAYING FOOTBALL AT HOME

Hope your season is going well.

Check out this podcast now http://www.coerver.com/podcasts/practice-at-home.m4a

We tell you about great ways to inspire your players to practice at home.

For players Under 12: Ask them to practice their ball mastery skills. Your players only need a small space and a ball. Ask them to challenge themselves by practicing with their weaker foot or also adding other ball mastery techniques to make the exercise more challenging.

Over 12: For your older players, it is also really important they practice ball mastery. They should also think about air juggling. When juggling they should try and beat their last score. Older players should also add a physical aspect to their training. They need a slightly bigger area but they can practice ball mastery exercises and also full speed Coerver moves which involve explosive sprints after the move. Check out this latest video with Premier League Stoke City for some great practices your players can do in small groups at http://bit.ly/z480BR.

Don't forget Repeat, Repeat, Perfect!

Yours in Soccer,

HOW TO PRACTICE PLAYING FOOTBALL AT HOME

LEVEL 2 SWITCHING PLAY SSG 6 v 6 KEY FACTORS

All small sided games (S.S.G) are organised with the following:

60x40 yard pitch, with two goals. 6 players on each team, goalkeepers 1, defenders 2, midfield 1, attackers 2. This formation can be changed but seemed to be good for all topics. Start position may very, this iS due to the topic which is being delivered.

The point of the start position is to get directly to your topic, which should enable you to coach your topic and give player’s roles and a basic understanding of them. Once you have done this you can then allow the session to progress in ‘FREE PLAY’. This allows both teams to attack and defend which will allow you to assess and coach when you feel you have a valid point to make. It is not recommended to direct the opposing team members to help your session work. If problems occur you need to solve them.

SWITCHING PLAY S.S.G. 6v6 Start Position

Here are three ways of switching play. There are of course many ways to switch the point of attack which you may use.

FULL BACK SWITCHES DIRECT TO OTHER FULL BACK

FULL BACK PLAYS INTO 1ST FORWARD WHO THEN SWITCHES TO PLAY TO THE OTHER SIDE OF PITCH.

FULL BACK PASSES BACK TO FULL BACK, WHO CAN NOW SWITCH TO WIDE FORWARD

LEVEL 2 SWITCHING PLAY SSG 6 v 6 KEY FACTORS

CREATE SPACE FULL BACKS
COMMUNICATION FROM ALL PLAYERS
OPEN BODY POSITION FROM PLAYERS RECEIVING THE BALL
DECISION MAKING
SUPPORT – AHEAD / BEHIND, ANGLES & DISTANCE
TIMING – RUN / PASS
TECHNIQUE OF PASS
END PRODUCT

• FA LEVEL 2 PASSING & SUPPORT SSG 6v6 KEY FACTORS
• FA LEVEL 2 SWITCHING PLAY SSG 6v6 KEY FACTORS
• FA LEVEL 2 RUNNING WITH THE BALL SSG 6 v 6 KEY FACTORS

WARM UP SOCCER DRILL LINK TAG

Focus: Turning, deception, using space off the ball.

Age: U10 and up.

Equipment: A couple of bibs.

Players: A full team works well. Minimum of about 10.

Space: Area about 40 x 40 yards. No need for marking.

Introduction: Turning, deception, and feint moves are undeniably useful in the game of soccer.These moves can be practiced individually and honed. But until the players actually experiencesuccess using these moves in a game-like situation, there will be little progress. It is kind of achicken - egg dilemma: Won’t use the moves until they experience success with them - Can’texperience success with them until they actually use them. This warm up activity works on suchmovement WITHOUT a ball at feet, which makes it much easier to experience success.

By the way, I cannot take credit for this activity. But I cannot remember where I first saw itused, so I am not sure who to credit for this great warm up activity.

Setup: Have the players partner up. Have partners link arms. Have pairs of players form a largecircle, about 25 yards in diameter. Spread the paired players out evenly around the circle. Pullout several of the pairs. Give two player you have pulled out bibs (they hold them, tell themnot to put them on). They are “it”. Have about 4-6 “runners” (players who are not paired upwith linked arms).

Execution: Simple. You play tag. The “it” players (with bibs in hand) try to tag the“runners”. They must tag them with their hand, not whip them with the bib! As soon as an“it” player tags a “runner”, they exchange roles. The old “it” player throws down the bib andbecomes a “runner”. The old “runner” picks up the bib and becomes “it”. None of the linkedplayers can be tagged. Let the players run outside the circle, but keep them from getting too faraway.

Now for the interesting part. A runner can escape being tagged (or simply take a breather) bylinking up with any linked player in the circle. The instant that they link arms, the playeropposite them must release his or her link and become a runner. This makes for some interestingstrategies for the “it” players, and also for the “runners”.

Coaching Points: Watch them. Learn from them. See what moves they are using to avoid beingtagged. watch how they use the momentum of the defender. See who uses space wisely. Thesewill give you some insight into what level they are thinking at. When they have a ball, you areseeing a combination of what level they are thinking at, as well as what level technically they areable to operate.

Blob tag Soccer Warm Up

Warm Up Soccer Training Drill

All the players are inside the grid. All but three have a soccer ball at their feet. The three without a ball form a 'blob' by holding hands. The blob moves freely in the grid and tries to kick any player’s ball out of the grid. If a player’s ball leaves the grid he/she joins the blob.

Once a chain has six or more players, have it break apart into two smaller chains (of three people each). The last player dribbling is the winner.

COACHING POINTS

"Stay away from the blob"-- that's the purpose of the game.

"Don’t get trapped" -- move into space away from the blob.

"Keep control of the ball" -- don’t kick it too far away.

"Work together" -- the blob must work as a team. They must stay together when kicking balls out of the grid.

VARIATIONS

Change the size of the grid. Bigger grid makes it easier for dribblers.

Have blobs break into two players per blob. (Harder for dribblers).

THE PUSH PASS

from the Soccer-Coach-L handbook

THE PUSH PASS COACHING DRILL

The instep or The push pass is a common pass used in soccer. To do a push pass, you use the inside of the foot (along the arch) to push the ball forward. As a result, the hip and leg/knee must rotate outwards to allow contact with the ball. Taking these elements in sequence, you will:

1. Turn the pass foot outward, locking the ankle so that the foot will not wobble. The knee of the passing leg will be slightly bent to allow the foot to come into contact with the middle of the ball.

2. As you are turning the pass foot outward, you will be stepping up to the ball with your plant foot, so that it is about hip-width away from the ball. If you stand too close, your hip will not swing smoothly. If you stand too far to the side, your angle will be awkward and the ball will not be struck smoothly. Your plant leg should be slightly bent, and the toe of the plant foot should be pointed at the target.

3. The ball is struck in the middle. If struck towards the bottom, it will go airborne. As the ball is struck, the plant leg should continue thru a natural swing of the hip, which will transfer additional power to the pass and also help to make it more accurate.

4. The arms will be held somewhat out from the body, especially on the follow-thru, so improve balance.

 The push pass can be learned by most children by around age 8-9. Short children (because the ball is relatively large) may have difficulty with this pass, as they may have insufficient hip width or swing to be able to get enough power. Children under age 8 often do not have the balance/coordination to use this pass, and may do better with a laces pass (passing the ball by pointing the toe down and hitting it along the big arch bone which along the side of the shoe laces).
The push pass, soccer, instep, children, soccer. drill, football coach, kids, passing,

Corrections

You can easily tell if the player is not using proper technique, because the ball will not stay on the ground and/or will not go in the desired direction.

• If the ball is getting airborne, this means that the player is striking it towards the bottom. If he strikes the ball in the centre or towards the top, it will stay on the ground. Usually can adjust easily by simply bending the knee of the passing leg.

• If the pass isn't accurate, this usually means one of two things. Either the ankle of the pass foot is wobbly (not locked) or the toe of the plant foot is not pointing at the target. Watch from the front, and this is easy to spot.

• If the pass has no power, this usually means that the plant leg is too straight/stiff, which reduces the ability of the hip to swing thru the pass. Sometimes, the plant foot will be planted too wide, or too close, which also can reduce power. This also can lead to inaccurate passes.

musical balls

a fun soccer warm up that improves dribbling skills

Your players, each with their own ball, dribble around a large grid. They should be moving at a decent pace, avoiding each other and keeping their heads up. 

After they have been dribbling for a while, call out the word "CHANGE."  When you do this each player must stop their ball, leave it where it is, and run around the circle looking for another football. It is important they get to new balls right away and continue dribbling. 

After allowing them to get comfortable with the concept of the drill, remove one player's ball.  This player now must run around the drill without a ball.  When the next "Change" comes about that person must try and find a ball leaving another player without a ball to dribble.

Any player who doesn't end up with a ball after a "Change" has to run round the grid. Just be careful that the same player doesn't lose out every time.

What to look for:

• Players are not allowed to swap balls with the same person two consecutive times,

• Make sure that the children are using the entire grid,

Finally, make sure that the players are practicing moves and turns within the area. You don'
/'+\'\'+'*' ball skills, speed and balance.Warm up.

 DRIBBLING DRILLS FOR 5 TO 15 YEAR OLDS

This is a soccer drills for 5 year olds up to about 15. It includes activities that will improve your players' ball skills, speed and balance.Warm up

1. Inside to insides Dribbling Drill

All your players have a ball between their feet. Encourage them to tap the ball from their left foot to their right, using the inside of their feet. Start at a slow pace and gradually increase the speed.

Progression: allow your players to look at the ball to begin with but it's important they can do this exercise with their heads up. It's not as easy as it looks!

2. Hat dance soccer drill

Your players tap the top of the ball with the sole of their left foot then their right. Again, start slowly and increase the speed of the taps as your players gain confidence.

Coaching note: both the previous two exercises should be done without moving off the spot.

3. Every step touch the football.

Ask your team players to walk with the ball, touching it with various parts of their feet as they go. The objective is to take a touch on the ball with every step and not to move quickly.

Inject a bit of fun by telling your players to leave their ball (shout "leave it!") and find another one. You can also instruct your players to stop the ball with different parts of their body – call "head" or "elbow" or "knee" etc.

Progression: Heads up, don't look at the ball. Try to feel it with your feet.

Games

Don't ask your players to dribble round cones. It just isn't realistic (when did you last see a line of cones on the pitch during a match?) and there are much better ways to work on their ball control.

1. Crossover dribbling a football

Use a small, square playing area. Half of your players line up on one side, each with a ball, and half on the opposite side also with a ball each.

On your command, both sets of players dribble their ball across the square, turn and dribble back. Make it competitive by seeing which player can cross the playing area 10 times in the quickest time.

Soccer Coaching notes:

This is a great way to encourage young players to keep close control of the ball in traffic and keep their heads up.

Encourage your players to take lots of small touches and pause (stop/go) if a collision looks likely.

Progression: Demonstrate a number of different turns and ask your players to complete a different one each time they cross the playing area.

Tip: small, low bounce balls (futsals are ideal) are slightly heavier and seem to "stick" to the foot better than normal footballs. This helps build young football players' confidence quickly.

2. End Lines soccer drills for 5 year olds

Play 4v4 or 3v3 in 20 yards by 30 yards area. Players score by dribbling over the end line with the ball.

Soccer Coaching note: soccer drills for 5 year olds, you can encourage your players to use the full width of the playing area by dividing the end lines into thirds and awarding one point for a "goal" scored in the centre section and two points for a goal scored in one of the outside sections.

Finish the session with at least ten minutes of free play. No coaching!

93% of visitors to this page also read..... 

DRIBBLING DRILLS FOR 5 TO 15 YEAR OLDS

ANATOMY DRIBBLING FOOTBALL GAME

A fun soccer warm up that helps improve basic ball control skills

1 V 1 attackers back to goal        

The Game

1. Server passes the football so that it stays in the grid.
    
2. Attacker is the only one able to play the ball initially.
3. Attacker attempts to turn with the ball and:
   
   a. Dribble under control over the end line for 1 point.
   
   b. Pass the ball through the goal for 3 points.
4. The player defending attempts to: a. Win the ball and dribble over the opposite line for 1 point. If the ball goes out of the grid, no points for either player.

Alternate roles.

Coaching Points

Defenders:

1. Do not allow the attacker to turn. Play him honestly. Do not let him know where you are by 'leaning' on him. He will use this over-commitment to turn you.
    
2. Tackle when the attacker turns, and only when certain of winning the ball.
3. If attacker turns, play them honestly, but deny pass into the goal. However, do not overplay this option too extremely as this will allow the attacker to dribble right by.

Attackers:

Animal Ball Coaching Drill

Animal Ball Coaching Drill is a game that works on aggressiveness, winning balls in the air, passing,

protect the cone – group

a football (soccer) drill for children that helps reinforce defending and ball control skills

HOW TO GET GREEDY ATTACKERS & FORWARDS TO PASS IN FOOTBALL

As any top striker will tell you, scoring goals successfully requires a bit more than just good kicking technique. Many young football players lack confidence in their own ability and need to be actively encouraged to 'pull the trigger' when they are within range of the goal.

If you coach a young team, you will undoubtedly have come across a youngster who is a talented player and striker but doesn't like to share the glory and pass to teammates. These soccer coaching tips look at how to tackle this problem, without squashing your player's enthusiasm for the game. One simple solution, and an approach that works well with young players, is to reward the behaviour you want to see in your team.

Where a player won't pass the ball to his teammates, you could set up a situation where you can praise this player for assisting others to score.

In training, play a small-sided game (4v4) where players can only score with their first touch. This will force your talented striker to pass. When he makes an assist, make sure you stop the game and congratulate him in front of his team mates.

In matches, give a Player of the Match award to whoever assists his team mates to score.

teaching young soccer players good defensive body posture

by Chris Johnson from Dallas, Texas U.S.A.

If you are teaching young soccer players how to defend, a good defensive body posture is a key element to good individual defending. Often times the players defensive stance determines the success or failure of a defender.

For the purpose of focusing on good soccer defensive body posture, let’s start by defining the role of the closest defensive player to the ball (1st Defender). In general, the 1st Defender must put immediate pressure on the ball carrier to slow the attack and turn the ball carrier away from danger areas on the pitch. This sounds easy; however, only players with good defensive posture and mobility will be successful at defending.

I have put together a series of soccer defending exercises that will help you teach young soccer players good soccer defensive body posture.

Exercise 1

Have players match up in groups of 2’s. The player’s objective is to slap their opponent’s knees. Each time the knee is slapped, the payer slapping gets a point. The first player to 10 wins and the coach should have the players switch partners after each game. The coach should make sure this exercise does not get out of control and should focus on the player’s body movements such as: their stance should be staggered with knees bent on the balls of their feet; chest leaning over toes, low center of gravity; ability to shuffle quickly; and reaction to the other players movements. The players can use their hands to deflect any knee slapping attempts.

Exercise 2

With the players still split up into groups of 2, instruct each group to get a football. With each player facing each other, instruct the player with the ball to be the attacker and the other player will be the defender. Instruct the defender to space themselves approximately 3 yards from the attacker. The attacker will slowly jog forward with the ball in a straight line. It is up to the defender to keep adequate space (approx. 3 yards) between themselves and the attacker. Have the players switch roles. Since they are moving backwards, they should position themselves low to the ground with their knees bent and slightly leaning forward over their toes. The defensive players should focus on their movement and should NOT attempt to win the ball from the attacker.

Exercise 3

This exercise is simply a slight variation of Exercise 2. This exercise is structured exactly as the previous exercise; however, instruct the attacker to slowly dribble the ball in a zigzag pattern. As the ball is taken from one side to the other, have the defensive player stagger their stance as to force the attacker in the opposite direction. In this exercise we will focus on the defenders lateral movement while jogging backwards. It will be important for the defender to have a low center of gravity for quick change of direction along with quick feet movements. Again the player should keep approximately 3 yards between themselves and the attacker.

Exercise 4

Play a game of 1v1. Set up a 15 X 15 yard grid and split the team into 4 groups with 1 group on each corner of the grid. Two groups next to each other (Group A and B) will have the supply of balls. The first player of group A will play a ball to the first player in group C who is on the diagonal corner. Player C becomes the attacker who attempts to attack the cone in which player A came from. Player A becomes the defender and attempts to deny player C from getting to his cone. Play is considered dead when the ball is out of the grid, or the defending player wins possession. Group B will then play to Group D and repeat. Watch for proper defending posture as they step up to pressure the attacker. Remind the defender to keep the attacker away from the goal and force them to take the long route by staying between the offensive player and the goal.

As I said earlier young players must be taught how to position their body low to the ground with knees bent while moving backwards. It’s difficult and awkward to some, but with time their ability to get low to the ground and move backwards with the advancing attacker will help them to stand up to any attacker and deny them space.

my thanks to SoccerXpert.com for permission to reproduce this article

Give and Go

PLAY THE ARSENAL WAY SOCCER SCHOOLS

Arsenal are a premier league football club that prides itself on playing a certain way in football. With enthusiasm and to concentrate on passing the football around.

PLAY THE ARSENAL WAY SOCCER SCHOOLS

Over the years Arsenal and to play the arsenal way soccer schools have been running for over 30 years. It is one of the most popular and successful soccer schools that operates all over the world. It is a franchise and to operate an arsenal franchise is hard but rewrading for everyone involved.

The coaches are well trained andthe kids enjoy these soccer schools.

Many places in England hold Arsenal Soccer Schools and you can register for any of the courses by going to the Arsenal Play the Arsenal way website.

We hope you enjoy learning with arsenal and have many good experiences in players who have learned to play football this way.

The continue to grow as players and the football club is unique in its way it teaches and we fullly recommend you play the Arsenal way.

93% of visitors to this page also read..... 

ARSENAL FOOTBALL TRIALS

ARSENAL FOOTBALL TRIALS

ARSENAL FOOTBALL TRIALS

ARSENAL FOOTBALL TRIALS

SOCCER MARBLES TRAINING DRILL FOR KIDS    

SOCCER MARBLES TRAINING DRILL FOR KIDS    

GOALKEEPER GUIDE

1. Go for everything!

You may not be able to stop every shot that comes your way, but if you make the attempt, you will find that you are stopping shots you never before thought possible. You will also have the personal satisfaction that at least you made the attempt and your teammates will be more forgiving even if you miss.

2. After a save – get up quickly!

If you have gone to the ground to make a save get back on your feet as fast as possible. Look for a fast break distribution or to direct your teammates into position to receive a build-up distribution. This aspect is particularly important if you are injured. You cannot show weakness, you may tend to your injury after you have started the counterattack. This will particularly intimidate your opponents and raise the confidence in your teammates.

3. Do not be half-hearted --- 100% effort!

Every time you make a play it must be with all of your ability. If you go half way you will miss saves and injure yourself.

4. Communicate loudly!

You must constantly give instructions when on defense. When your team is on the attack, come to the top of your penalty area or beyond and talk to your teammates and offer support to the defenders. Be mentally involved in the entire match, no matter where the ball is.

5. No excuses! No whining! Just get on with the match.
If a goal is scored against you, a corner kick is given up or the shot is a near miss, DO NOT yell at your teammates even if it’s their fault. DO NOT hang your head; kick the ground or the post if it was your fault. During the match is no time to point fingers or make excuses. The play is over, its ancient history, get on with playing the remainder of the match. Focus on what lies ahead!

Freeze Tag Training Drill For Kids

Attacker (A)  Defender (D)		Ball(B)

    A
             D
                         B

[ Goal ]

    D
     A                        Ball

[ Goal ]


      D
   A
                       Ball

That is a comprehensive guide on how to TEACH BASIC MARKING

all-up and all-back

helps develops compact team play