10 week Soccer Training Guide for under10_11

BALMAIN DFC 10 WEEK TRAINING PROGRAM

Under 10 & 11 Years Training session structure

The following would be the framework for a typical 1-hour to 1.5 hour training session.

Consider games 1, 2 & 3 should to be run concurrently; each game should be lead by the

“Head Coach” and have “assistant coaches” allocated to helping in each game both in its

setup and monitoring.

Game 1 Technique Games - Developing passing, receiving, control and dribbling

skills

Games 2 & 3 Technical & Tactical Games – 2 variations of Small Sided Games - 2v2 or

3v3 developing their attack and defensive skills

Game 4 or 5 The Game – a Match with age related and standard Association rules

applying the skills developed from above stages.

Legend:

WEEK 1 – UNDER 10 & 11 YEARS

Players

5 – consider concurrent games.

Play Area

Each side of pentagon are 4m in length

Setup

5 cones as illustrated, 1 ball. Stopwatch (optional for Variation 1)

Objective

Game 1 - Pentagon Pass (10 Minutes)

5 players each positioned at a cone one player with a ball. Start with the

players simply passing the ball around the Pentagon regularly changing the

direction in which they are to pass. Get them to experiment with various

techniques – stopping the ball on one foot and passing with the other, first time

pass etc. Ensure that they keep the ball outside the pentagon.

Variation 1

Add a second ball. Give a second ball to a player two or three cones along

from the first. This will keep the players focussed and in anticipation for a pass

every few seconds.

Variation 2

Beat the clock – having established approximately how long it takes them to

complete a number of rotations challenge them to better their time. Restart

the game if the ball enters the pentagon. Try this in both directions.

Variation 3 Hexagon Passing Challenge. With two or more concurrent sessions have a

race and see which team can successfully complete five circuits first. Repeat

in both directions. Consider adding a second ball per team to this challenge

too!

Players

4 - can be played with more players but there will be less inactivity with a

smaller group. Consider running concurrent games.

Play Area

16m length, 12m wide (12m x 12m central square with two additional

start/finish cones about 2 metres beyond 9 (see diagram). The play area can

be scaled to either be smaller or larger.

Setup

6 cones, 2 balls

Objective

Game 2 - Hexagon dribble and pass challenge Two teams of two or more are

stationed at their respective start/finish points. Specify the direction of the

game – clockwise or anticlockwise, and how many circuits are to be

completed – 2 each, 4 each etc. On your indication the race begins with the

lead players in each team dribbling their ball around three corners of the

central square. On completing the third corner of the course they must pass

the ball – dissecting the area between the fourth corner and the start/finish

cone to their team-mate who then repeats the course. After passing the ball

the player continues running beyond the fourth corner and returns to the start

finish point. The first team that completes the specified number of circuits is

the winner. Repeat and change direction often – this will force the players to

pass with their less favoured foot and to corner in both directions.

Teams are disqualified and the game is restarted if:

• They intrude into the central square whilst dribbling the ball

• They hit one of the cones – the game is designed to encourage speed

and accuracy so it is only fair …

Encourage… • The players to experiment with different cornering techniques to

establish which is fastest for them - they’ll probably have to use several

depending on how in control or otherwise they are of the ball when

they reach the corner

• Positioning of the their body when they receive the ball

• Speed and acceleration – it’s a race!

Players

2 (multiple concurrent sessions)

Play Area

8m length, 8m width

Setup

4 cones, 1 ball

Objective

Game3 Attack Defence 1 v 1 (10 Minutes)

Two players standing in the centre 2m apart of the playing area, one player

has possession of the ball. The aim of the game is for the defender to win the

ball using delaying tactics and timing his or her tackle. The attacker will

attempt to dribble the ball past the defender to the opposing 8m goal-line.

Coaches will encourage. Switch the playing roles when a goal is scored by

dribbling the ball over the goal line, or when the defender dispossesses the

attacker and has the ball in control.

Encourage… • Close ball control by the attacker.

• Any trickery and body feints that the attacker does to try to fool the

defender.

• The defenders to focus on the ball and body movement of the

attacker.

Variation 1

First to five – allocate a point each time a player successfully crosses the goal

line. The winner is the first to reach five.

Variation 2

A timed game – to encourage speed in attacking play, introduce a time limit

by which they should attempt to pass the goal line – 10 seconds for example.

If they achieve this, allocate 2 points, in they are still in possession at the end of

the 10 seconds allocate 1 point to encourage possession.

Players

Assuming squad size of 10, 5 V 5 game format


Play Area:

30m x 20m (suggestion only – use whatever space you have available, for

smaller groups a much smaller area is fine)

Setup:

4 cones to mark out field. 1 Ball,

Objective:

Game 4 - The Possession Game (10 Minutes)

As the name indicates possession is priority in this game. The Team in

possession is encouraged to pass the ball in any direction as many times to

each other without losing possession of the ball. The other team will make the

opposition’s passing game difficult and attempt to win the ball to gain

possession for their own team.

we encourage free play and emphasis the development of teamwork

between the teams and allow the players to learn and express themselves,

minimal instructions from coaches but please encourage shorter passing and

no booting or clearing it. Emphasise that there is no “direction” in which each

team must play. Team must stay within the game area and should the ball go

out, the ball is played in with a short kick-in by the other team. Team that

successfully completes three passes receives a point. If the team is quite

proficient you can increase the difficulty to five passes.

Coaches should observe the game and commend players in possession for

protecting the ball, looking up for passing options, getting into spaces to

receive the ball & completed passes. Commend defending team for

anticipating passes, clean dispossessions of the ball. Discourage “panic”

actions such as kicking the ball into the shins of an approaching defender. At

the end of the session make an assessment of the game emphasising the

positives.

Players



Play Area:



Setup:

8 cones 4 cones setup 2 x 2m wide goals and 4 cones to mark up field, 1 Ball

Objective:

The Standard Game (10 Minutes)

This game will be played with your clubs standard competition age related

rules and formats that has been emailed to you by your Age Coordinator.

Please refer to this document and become familiar with these rules.

To complement this game, the clubs philosophy should also be referenced.




no booting or clearing it. Team must stay within the game area and should the

ball go out, the ball is played in with a short kick-in by the other team.

When a goal is scored, the team that conceded a goal will recommence from

the centre of the pitch.





actions such as kicking the ball into the shins of an approaching defender.


Players

6 – consider concurrent games.

Play Area

Each side of pentagon are 4m in length

Setup

5 cones as illustrated, 1 ball.

Objective

Pentagon Possession (10 Minutes+)

5 players each positioned between two cones, one player with a ball and 1

player inside the pentagon as defender. Start with the players simply passing

the ball inside the pentagon to fellow team-mates. Encourage intelligent

“movement off the ball” with players well positioned between the cones to

accept a pass. The defender will attempt to win the ball by pressuring the

attackers narrowing their passing options; the defender is also allowed to exit

the pentagon to challenge the attacker. Attackers should experiment with

various techniques – stopping the ball on one foot and passing with the other,

first time pass at speed etc. Ensure that they keep ball-passing inside the

pentagon. Each time the defender wins the ball they must swap playing roles

with the dispossessed player.

Note: this game uses the same set-up as the Pentagon Passing drill where the

ball is passed around the outside of the pentagon. To save on set-up time

consider moving from that drill (which is passive or unchallenged) to these

which involve defenders.

Variation 2

Variation 1

Continuous Passing and Moving. As above game, When an attacker passes

the ball to one of their team-mates, they must run and position themselves in

the spot where ball was received. Similarly the receiver must now quickly

decide and pass to another team-mate and run into the spot and so on. The

game must flow with constant passing, moving, positioning and receiving. A

single defender is still active in the pentagon’s centre. Each time the defender

wins the ball they must swap playing roles with the dispossessed player.

Variation 2

Add a second defender. Encourage defensive teamwork and support for

each other. Whilst one defender challenges the attacker, the second

defender supports from behind, guessing and anticipating the move or pass of

the attacker.

Players

Team

Play Area

14m length, players are positioned 4m from first and last cones or either end.

Cones are setup 3m apart.

Setup

9 cones, 3 balls

Objective

Dribble and pass challenge (10 minutes+) three teams of two or more are

stationed 4m from at their respective start/finish points. Specify the direction

of the game – eg left to right. On your signal, the race begins with the lead

players in each team dribbling their ball around three cones. On completing

the third cone the player must pass the ball to the team-mate who then

repeats the course and same for the other teams. The first team that

completes the course is the winner.

Note: for a “continuous” relay race (this is universal) you’ll need a minimum of

three players – two of them at the start end.

If you wish, time the event to see which team achieves the quickest time.

Teams are disqualified if:

• They hit one of the cones (cones act as imaginary defenders) – the

game is designed to encourage good dribbling technique, speed and

accuracy so it is only fair …

• The pass to a team-mate is inaccurate and the poor control of the ball

by team-mate eg fumbled and lost possession.

Encourage… • Good dribble technique and close control - encourage sideways and

backward movements to get around the cones rather than

conventional (ball in front) dribbling.

• Using different parts of the foot or feet to control the ball around the

cones eg, outside, inside or sole.


Players

2 (multiple concurrent sessions)

Play Area

8m length, 8m width

Setup

4 cones, 1 ball

Objective

Attack Defence 1 v 1 (10 Minutes+)

Two players standing in the centre 2m apart of the playing area, one player

has possession of the ball. The aim of the game is for the defender to win the

ball using delaying tactics and timing his or her tackle. The attacker will

attempt to dribble the ball past the defender to the opposing 8m goal-line.

Coaches will encourage. Switch the playing roles when a goal is scored by

dribbling the ball over the goal line, or when the defender dispossesses the

attacker and has the ball in control.

Encourage… • Close ball control by the attacker.

• Any trickery and body feints that the attacker does to try to fool the

defender.

• The defenders to focus on the ball and body movement of the

attacker.

Variation 1

First to five – allocate a point each time a player successfully crosses the goal

line. The winner is the first to reach five.

Variation 2

A timed game – to encourage speed in attacking play, introduce a time limit

by which they should attempt to pass the goal line – 10 seconds for example.

If they achieve this, allocate 2 points, in they are still in possession at the end of

the 10 seconds allocate 1 point to encourage possession.

Players



Play Area:



Setup:

4 cones to mark out field. 1 Ball,

Objective:

Game 4 - The Possession Game (10 Minutes)

As the name indicates possession is priority in this game. The Team in

possession is encouraged to pass the ball in any direction as many times to

each other without losing possession of the ball. The other team will make the

opposition’s passing game difficult and attempt to win the ball to gain

possession for their own team.




no booting or clearing it. Emphasise that there is no “direction” in which each

team must play. Team must stay within the game area and should the ball go

out, the ball is played in with a short kick-in by the other team. Team that

successfully completes three passes receives a point. If the team is quite

proficient you can increase the difficulty to five passes.





actions such as kicking the ball into the shins of an approaching defender. At

the end of the session make an assessment of the game emphasising the

positives.

Players



Play Area:



Setup:

8 cones 4 cones setup 2 x 2m wide goals and 4 cones to mark up field, 1 Ball

Objective:

The Standard Game (10 Minutes)

This game will be played with your clubs standard competition age related

rules and formats that has been emailed to you by your Age Coordinator.

Please refer to this document and become familiar with these rules.





no booting or clearing it. Team must stay within the game area and should the

ball go out, the ball is played in with a short kick-in by the other team.

When a goal is scored, the team that conceded a goal will recommence from

the centre of the pitch.





actions such as kicking the ball into the shins of an approaching defender.


Players

2 – 4 players

Play Area

4m x 4m

Setup

4 cones in a square, one ball. Games 1 & 2 will be running side-by-side and

concurrently for 10 - 20 minutes

Objective

Game 1 – Cat & Mouse

Two players are positioned in opposite corners of the square. 1 player has the ball, the

other player must chase them around the square and “tag” them. The aim is for the

player with the ball to outrun the defender for as long as they possibly can –

acknowledging that it is easier to run and take corners easier without the ball. Award

the player with the ball a point for every side of the square they successfully complete.

After a while, intensify the game by making the defender win the ball off the attacker.

Regularly switch defending and attacking roles and compare points scored. Change

the direction of the game.

Encourage… • Close ball control

• Use of both feet and all parts of their feet

• Regularly looking up

• The players to experiment with different methods for taking the corners –

different feet, different parts of their feet etc

Variation 1

Variation 1 Introduce 2 more players - 2 attackers and 2 defenders. Defenders start one corner

behind the corresponding attacker. Similar to above, defenders to put immediate

pressure on their attackers by attempting to win the ball from them. Award a point for

each side of the square each attacker completes. Swap playing roles and direction of

the game regularly.

Players

4 – 8 players

Play Area

8m X 8m (flexible)

Setup

8 cones 4 cones paired up 1m apart as illustrated, 2 balls. Games 1 & 2 will be running

concurrently for 10 - 20 minutes

Objective

Game 2 - Pass, Receive & dribble

Two players from different corners dribble the ball from diagonally opposed positions to

the centre of the playing area. Once they reach the centre, they pass the ball on the

run toward a team-mate waiting behind the goal to their left side. Then the receiver

dribbles around a cone (as illustrated) towards the centre and passes the ball to the

goal on their left side. Intensify the game by increasing speed of play and switching

passing directions to the players Play the game until you observe confidence in their

play

Encourage • Close ball control

• Use of both feet and all parts of their feet


Players

3 V 3, 4 V 4. Player numbers per team will depend on the size of your squad.

Play Area:

8m x 8m (suggestion only – use whatever space you have available, for smaller groups

a much smaller area is fine).

Setup:

4 cones to mark-out field for Possession Game and End-Line Game. 1 Ball per game, Games 3 & 4 will be running side-by-side and simultaneously for 10 - 20 minutes

Objective:

Game 3 - The End-Line Game

In this game teams in possession are encouraged to build-up play from their goal line

and pass the ball in any direction and maintaining possession with the main objective

of dribbling the ball over the end-line to score a point.

Defenders will make the oppositions build up play and passing game difficult and

attempt to win the ball to gain possession for their own team.

We encourage free play between the teams and encourage the players to

experiment and to creatively express themselves. Minimal instructions from coaches

but please encourage shorter passing and no booting or clearing it (if someone

“hoofs” it away, make them get the ball). Team must stay within the game area and

should the ball go out, the ball is played in with a short kick-in by the other team.

3 successful passes = 1 point. Team that makes 3 successful passes AND dribbles over

opponents goal line = 2 points

Coaches should observe the game and commend players in possession for protecting

the ball, looking up for passing options, getting into spaces to receive the ball &

completed passes. Commend defending team for anticipating passes, clean

dispossessions of the ball. Discourage “panic” actions such as kicking the ball into the

shins of an approaching defender.

Players


Play Area:



Setup:

4 cones to mark-out field for Possession Game and End-Line Game. 1 Ball per game.

Games 3 & 4 will be running side-by-side and concurrently for 10 - 20 minutes

Objective 1:

Game 4 - The Possession Game

As the name indicates possession is priority in this game. The Team in possession is

encouraged to pass the ball in any direction as many times to each other without

losing possession of the ball. The other team will make the opposition’s passing game

difficult and attempt to win the ball to gain possession for their own team.




“hoofs” it away, make them get the ball). Emphasise that there is no “direction” in

which each team must play. Team must stay within the game area and should the

ball go out, the ball is played in with a short kick-in by the other team The team that

successfully completes three passes receives a point. If either of your teams is quite

proficient you can increase the difficulty to five passes for that team.


the ball, looking up for passing options, getting into spaces to receive the ball and



shins of an approaching defender. At the end of the session make an assessment of

the game emphasising the positives.

Players

6 V 6 Players, numbers per team will depend on the size of your squad.

Play Area:

30m x 20m (suggestion only – use whatever space you have available, for smaller

groups a much smaller area is fine)

Setup:

8 cones 4 cones setup 2 x 2m wide goals and 4 cones to mark up field, 1 Ball. Game 5

should for approx 20 – 30 minutes

Objective:

Game 5 - The Standard Game

This game will be played with your clubs standard competition age related rules and

formats that has been emailed to you by your Age Coordinator. Please refer to this

document and become familiar with these rules.


we encourage free play and emphasis the development of teamwork between the

teams and allow the players to learn and express themselves, minimal instructions from

coaches but please encourage shorter passing and no booting or clearing it. Team

must stay within the game area and should the ball go out, the ball is played in with a

short kick-in by the other team. When a goal is scored, the team that conceded a

goal will recommence from the centre of the pitch.






WEEK 4 – UNDER 10, 11 & 12 YEARS

Players

7 - 5 Outfield Players & 2 Goal-keepers

Play Area

10m x 10m

Setup

8 cones, setup play area as a Small Sided Game, goals are 3m, one ball. Game 1

played for 10 – 20 mins

Objective

Game 1 - Fast Attack 3 V 4

Create two teams 3 attackers and 4 defenders (2 Sweepers / 2 Goal-keepers). The

three attackers start with the ball from the centre of the field and will try to beat a

defender and goal-keeper positioned in front of a goal and score. The attack is

played at speed and shots on goal can only be taken when all attackers have

touched the ball at least once. The direction of the attack can be switched towards

any goal at anytime, allowing the attackers to decide the best option to attack.

Restarts will begin from where the ball went out of play. If goal was scored, the restart

will begin 2m to the left or right of the goal mouth. Build-up attacks encouraged, no

long balls. Ensure all players switch playing roles.

The defenders must do everything possible to delay the attackers and stop any

opportunity of scoring, should the defender win the ball, they must begin their own

attack, find space and get the ball to other defender via dribbling or passing – they

must then return the ball to the attacking team to start another attack. All defenders

must be proactive even if the direction of attack is not towards them; they must

always anticipate and be prepared for a possible change in direction. No defender

must enter the other half of the field; they must only defend in their own half.


• Fast, short accurate passing

• Maintaining possession is priority

• Find space


• Intelligent off the ball movement and support – suggest triangular formations

• Defenders should analyse the game from both ends, using delay and block

tactics, timing their attempts to win the ball accurately.

Variations As above game, add further pressure by adding a box-to-box defender (you as

coach may have to take one of the roles), roaming and challenging every move the

attackers make. The playing roles are switched immediately when possession is won

eg, defenders become attackers.

Players


Play Area:



Setup:

4 cones to mark-out field for Possession Game and End-Line Game. 1 Ball per game, Games 2 & 3 should be run side-by-side and concurrently for up to 20-30 minutes.

Rotate the players through the games after about 10-15 minutes.

Objective:

Game 2 - The End-Line Game

In this game teams in possession are encouraged to build-up play from their goal line

and pass the ball in any direction and maintaining possession with the main objective

of dribbling the ball over the end-line to score a point.

Defenders will make the oppositions build-up play and passing game difficult and

attempt to win the ball to gain possession for their own team.




“hoofs” it away, make them get the ball). Team must stay within the game area and

should the ball go out, the ball is played in with a short kick-in by the other team.

3 successful passes = 1 point. Team that makes 3 successful passes AND dribbles over

opponents goal line = 2 points


the ball, looking up for passing options, getting into spaces to receive the ball &




Players


Play Area:



Setup:

4 cones to mark-out field for Possession Game and End-Line Game. 1 Ball per game. Games 2 & 3 should be run side-by-side and concurrently for up to 20-30 minutes.

Rotate the players through the games after about 10-15 minutes .

Objective:

Game 3 – Maintain Possession Game

As the name indicates possession is priority in this game. The Team in possession is



difficult and attempt to win the ball to gain possession for their own team.




“hoofs” it away, make them get the ball). Emphasise that there is no “direction” in

which each team must play. Team must stay within the game area and should the

ball go out, the ball is played in with a short kick-in by the other team The team that

successfully completes three passes receives a point. If either of your teams is quite

proficient you can increase the difficulty to five passes for that team.







Players

6 V 6, numbers per team will depend on the size of your squad.

Play Area:



Setup:



Objective:

















WEEK 5 – Under 10 &11 Years Training Session

Players

8

Play Area

10m x 10m

Setup



Objective

Game 1 - Fast Attack - 2 V 3 V 1 with Goal-Keepers

Create two teams – one of 3 attackers, the other of 3 defenders (1 defender in one

half and 2 in the other half) and 2 goal-keepers. The 3 attackers start with the ball on

the goal-line and build an attack to try to beat the defender(s) and goal-keepers

positioned in their respective halves protecting their goal zones, and score. The

attackers may score in either goal. The attack is to be played at speed and shots on

goal can only be taken when all attackers have touched the ball at least once. The

direction of the attack can be switched towards either goal at any time, allowing the

attackers to determine the best option to attack.

Restarts will begin with a kick-in from where the ball went out of play. When a goal is

scored restart occurs 2m to the left or right of the goal mouth. Build-up attacks are

encouraged, no speculative kicks. Ensure all players switch their playing roles.

The defenders must do everything possible to delay the attackers and thwart the

attempts at scoring. If a defender wins the ball, the defenders begin their own

possession based “attack” – they need to maintain possession with the other

defender(s) via dribbling or passing for as long as possible. All defenders need to be

“involved” even if the direction of the attack is not towards them; they must always

anticipate and be prepared for a possible change in direction. No defender must

enter the other half of the field; they must only defend in their own half.




• Find space



• Defenders should analyse the game from both ends, using delaying and

blocking tactics, timing their attempts to win the ball accurately.

Variations As above game, add further pressure by allowing one of the defenders to roam both

halves of the field, challenging every move the attackers make. The playing roles are

switched after when possession is won eg, defenders become attackers.

Variations 1: This Variation allows the game to flow either way. If Team B wins the ball, they are

joined by the two wing backs with the objective to attack and score against the two

defenders and goalkeeper. If Team A wins back possession, the wing backs rejoin

their attack.

Players

7 Players: Team A - 1 Goalkeeper, 2 Centre Backs, 2 Wing Backs. Team B - 2 Attackers

Play Area:

10m x 10m

Setup:

8 cones, one side of pitch setup as a Small Sided Game with goals 3m wide. The other

side 2 cones are setup as wide as pitch and 2 more cones are placed 2m inward, one

ball. Game 2 played for 20 - 30 mins

Objective:

Game 2 – Developing Build-Up Play from Defence 5 v 2

The Goalkeeper plays the ball out to one of the four defenders and they must develop

an attack and attempt to cross through either of their 2 cone goals (see diagram) with

the ball under control. The team B players (strangely – the attackers) must prevent

their play from happening. Team A will learn how to utilise less defended areas by

passing and releasing their team-mates into space and / or intelligent off-the-ball

movement and support. Team A should take advantage of their numerical

advantage using the entire width and depth of the playing area. The exercise is

designed to demonstrate to Team A that a direct or straight ahead playing approach

is not always the best option and to always consider “linking back” even as far as the

goalkeeper to maintain possession and open other attacking opportunities. Team B is

essentially learning the art of harassing the opposing defenders, shutting down the

passing angles and “learning to defend from the front”. If they get the ball they may

develop their own attack and shoot for goal.

Encourage: • Close ball control


• Possession as a priority. This is a potentially “risky” scenario but it is important the

defenders learn to stay calm.

• Finding space and regularly looking up

• Intelligent off-the-ball movement, give the player in possession plenty of

support and at least 2 – 3 options of passing.

• Utilising the length and width of pitch.

• Team 2 should analyse the game using delaying and blocking tactics, timing

their attempts to win the ball accurately.

Players

2 V 2, 3 V 3.

Play Area:



Setup:

4 cones to mark-out field. 1 Ball per game. Game 3 should be run together with

Games 1 & 2 for any players currently NOT participating in Games 1 & 2. Eg the 7

players not participating at the time of Game 1 will be playing Game 3 and so on for

Game 2. Objective 1:

Game 3 - Maintain Possession Game

As the name indicates possession is priority in this game. The team in possession is



difficult and attempt to win the ball to gain possession for their team.

The purpose of this game is to encourage players to consider playing the ball

backwards and sideways rather than constantly forwards when they are playing their

regular game. This is the way modern football is played and it allows teams to reduce

pressure on their own players and maintain possession whilst probing the opposing

defence for gaps that will lead to goal scoring opportunities. A step or two back really

can be the best way to go forward!

Initially we encourage free play between the teams (i.e. we don’t limit the number of

touches a player may have before passing) and encourage the players to experiment

and to creatively express themselves. Restrictions such as “two-touch” can be

introduced to further challenge the players. Minimal instructions from coaches but

please encourage shorter passing and no booting or clearing it (if someone “hoofs” it

away, make them get the ball). Emphasise that there is no “direction” in which each

team must play. Teams must stay within the game area and should the ball go out,

the ball is played in with a short kick-in by the other team. The team that successfully

completes three passes receives a point. If either of your teams is quite proficient you

can increase the difficulty to five passes for that team.



completed passes. Commend the defending team for anticipating passes, clean




Players

6 V 6 numbers per team will depend on the size of your squad.

Play Area:



Setup:



Objective:

















WEEK 6 – Under 10 & 11 Years Training Session

Players

8

Play Area

10m x 10m

Setup



Objective

Game 1 - Fast Attack - 2 V 3 V 1 with Goal-Keepers

Create two teams – one of 3 attackers, the other of 3 defenders (1 defender in one

half and 2 in the other half) and 2 goal-keepers. The 3 attackers start with the ball on

the goal-line and build an attack to try to beat the defender(s) and goal-keepers

positioned in their respective halves protecting their goal zones, and score. The

attackers may score in either goal. The attack is to be played at speed and shots on

goal can only be taken when all attackers have touched the ball at least once. The

direction of the attack can be switched towards either goal at any time, allowing the

attackers to determine the best option to attack.

Restarts will begin with a kick-in from where the ball went out of play. When a goal is

scored restart occurs 2m to the left or right of the goal mouth. Build-up attacks are

encouraged, no speculative kicks. Ensure all players switch their playing roles.

The defenders must do everything possible to delay the attackers and thwart the

attempts at scoring. If a defender wins the ball, the defenders (including the keepers)

begin their own possession based “attack” – they need to maintain possession with

the other defender(s) via dribbling or passing for as long as possible. A “goal” is

awarded to the defending team if they complete 5 passes and then should be

encouraged to maintain possession for longer! All defenders need to be “involved”

even if the direction of the attack is not towards them; they must always anticipate

and be prepared for a possible change in direction. No defender must enter the

other half of the field; they must only defend in their own half.




• Find space



• Defenders should analyse the game from both ends, using delaying and

blocking tactics, timing their attempts to win the ball accurately.

Variations As above game, add further pressure by allowing one of the defenders to roam both

halves of the field, challenging every move the attackers make. The playing roles are

switched after when possession is won eg, defenders become attackers.

Variations 1: This Variation allows the game to flow either way. If Team B wins the ball, they are

joined by the two wing backs with the objective to attack and score against the two

defenders and goalkeeper. If Team A wins back possession, the wing backs rejoin

their attack.

Players

7 Players: Team A - 1 Goalkeeper, 2 Centre Backs, 2 Wing Backs. Team B - 2 Attackers

Play Area:

10m x 10m

Setup:

8 cones, one side of pitch setup as a Small Sided Game with goals 3m wide. The other

side 2 cones are setup as wide as pitch and 2 more cones are placed 2m inward, one

ball. Game 2 played for 20 - 30 mins

Objective:

Game 2 – Developing Build-Up Play from Defence 5 v 2

The Goalkeeper plays the ball out to one of the four defenders and they must develop

an attack and attempt to cross through either of their 2 cone goals (see diagram) with

the ball under control. The team B players (strangely – the attackers) must prevent

their play from happening. Team A will learn how to utilise less defended areas by

passing and releasing their team-mates into space and / or intelligent off-the-ball

movement and support. Team A should take advantage of their numerical

advantage using the entire width and depth of the playing area. The exercise is

designed to demonstrate to Team A that a direct or straight ahead playing approach

is not always the best option and to always consider “linking back” even as far as the

goalkeeper to maintain possession and open other attacking opportunities. Team B is

essentially learning the art of harassing the opposing defenders, shutting down the

passing angles and “learning to defend from the front”. If they get the ball they may

develop their own attack and shoot for goal.




defenders learn to stay calm.







Players

2 V 2, 3 V 3.

Play Area:



Setup:

4 cones to mark-out field. 1 Ball per game. Game 3 should be run together with

Games 1 & 2 for any players currently NOT participating in Games 1 & 2. Eg the 7

players not participating at the time of Game 1 will be playing Game 3 and so on for

Game 2. Objective 1:




























Players


Play Area:



Setup:



Objective:


















Players

4 - 6

Play Area

10m x 10m. (Suggestion only – use whatever space you have available, for smaller

groups a much smaller area is fine).

Setup

12 cones, setup play area as illustrated. 2 balls. Game 1 should run for approx 20 - 30

min

Objective

Game 1 - Dribble & Pass Challenge

This is a variation on an earlier drill but we’ve added some cones for the teams to

dribble through. Two teams of two or more are stationed at their opposing start/finish

points. Specify the direction of the game – clockwise or anticlockwise, and how many

circuits are to be completed – 2 each, 4 each etc. The race begins with the lead

players in each team completing the first turn and then dribbling their ball in & out of

the next four cones, take a couple more corners and then passing a diagonal ball to

their team-mate waiting who receives the ball between start/finish point and their first

cone/corner, who then repeats the course (see diagram). After passing the ball, the

player must run on the outside of the course, back to their starting cone. The first team that

completes the specified number of circuits is the winner. Repeat and change

direction often – this will force the players to pass with their less-favoured foot and to

corner in both directions. The drill covers: receiving the ball at speed, dribbling in

confined and open spaces, cornering and passing … at speed.

Teams are disqualified and the game is restarted if:

• They intrude into the central course whilst dribbling the ball or running back

• They hit one of the cones – the game is designed to encourage speed and

accuracy so it is only fair …

• A bad pass to a team-mate

Encourage… • The players to experiment with different control and cornering techniques to

establish which is fastest for them - they’ll probably have to use several

depending on how in control or otherwise they are at different stages. Eg

using inside / outside / sole of left or right foot to direct the ball.

• Positioning of the their body when they receive the ball


Variation 1

Variations As above game, players will dribble through ALL cones. On completion of the course,

the player in possession will now deliver a “short pass” square to their team-mate (see

diagram) who then continues the course.

Players

7 Players: Team A - 5 Attackers. Team B - 2 Defenders

Play Area:

10m x 10m

Setup:

4 cones, setup in a 10m x 10m square as illustrated, one ball. Game 2 should run for approx 20 – 30 minutes

Objective:

Game 2 – Maintaining Possession - Diamond Formation

4 players from Team A form a diamond formation on the outside of the square and in

between the cones – these players must not venture inside the square. Inside the

game area, Team A will be allocated a “playmaker”, whilst Team B consists of 2

defenders. Team A’s priority is to maintain possession passing the ball to their

supporting team-mates and encourage playing the ball through to their playmaker

who will control the direction of play in centre. Team-mates without the ball must not

be static in their play and support the player with the ball by making themselves

available for the pass, always with correct body positioning. Defenders will attempt

stop their passing game, should they win the ball, they must dribble the ball to the

outside of the square for Team A to restart. Ensure players roles are swapped.

Rules:

1 point awarded for every 5 successful passes by Team A.

2 points awarded if ball is successfully passed through playmaker to all team-mates.

Points are taken away by defenders winning the ball.

Remember 4 attackers cannot venture inside the square, so passes across the game

area need to be accurate. Players inside the square cannot venture out.


• Fast, accurate passing

• Possession as a priority. It is important to stay calm.





• Team B defenders should analyse the game using delaying and blocking

tactics, timing their attempts to win the ball accurately. Also defenders should

not overcommit or bunch up. 1 defender should close down the attacker and

the other supporting and anticipating the direction of the pass.

Players


Play Area:



Setup:


should run for approx 20 – 30 minutes

Objective:


















Players

6 - 7

Play Area

20m x 20m. (Suggestion only – use whatever space you have available)

Setup

7cones, setup play area as illustrated which is basically set out 2 diamond formations,

top diamond smaller than the bottom. 1 ball. Game 1 & 2 should be run side-by-side

and concurrently for up to 30 minutes and players rotated through the games after

about 15 minutes.

Objective

Game 1 – Pass, Receive, Move

This game is designed to improve passing, touch (control on receiving the ball) and

movement off the ball, in particular the timing and “moving to the Ball” of the player

receiving the ball. The exercise helps players develop some fundamental elements of

tactical football – support play and positional play, holding shape, maintaining ball

possession, whilst improving their technique and encouraging the use of triangle and

diamond formations.

Each player will position themselves near a cone with one player in possession of a

ball. The ball can be passed in whichever direction forwards, backwards or at an

angle to any team-mate. Full concentration is required. The players should not be

static with movement and anticipation highly encouraged - receivers of the ball

should move to the ball, control it and pass it in any direction then make a run to

occupy the area to which they just passed i.e. the player movement sequence should

follow that of the ball.

Encourage… • The players to experiment with different passing and control techniques - Eg

Passing using inside / outside of either foot to control with all parts of both feet.

• Accurate passing and excellent first touches

• using triangle and diamond formation

• Positioning of their body and moving to the ball when receiving.

• Communicate, don’t just call for the ball, but indicate where you want the

ball. Eg point to your right

• Speed and acceleration (passing and movement)

Players

7 Players: Team A - 5 Attackers. Team B - 2 Defenders

Play Area:

10m x 10m

Setup:

4 cones, setup in a 10m x 10m square as illustrated, one ball. Game 1 & 2 should be run side-by-side and concurrently for up to 30 minutes and players rotated through the

games after about 15 minutes.

Objective:

Game 2 – Maintaining Possession - Diamond Formation

4 players from Team A form a diamond formation on the outside of the square and in

between the cones – these players must not venture inside the square. Inside the

game area, Team A will be allocated a “playmaker”, whilst Team B consists of 2

defenders. Team A’s priority is to maintain possession passing the ball to their

supporting team-mates and encourage playing the ball through to their playmaker

who will control the direction of play in centre. Team-mates without the ball must not

be static in their play and support the player with the ball by making themselves

available for the pass, always with correct body positioning. Defenders will attempt

stop their passing game, should they win the ball, they must dribble the ball to the

outside of the square for Team A to restart. Ensure player roles are swapped.

Rules:

1 point awarded for every 5 successful passes by Team A.

2 points awarded if ball is successfully passed through playmaker to all team-mates.

Points are taken away by defenders winning the ball.

Remember 4 attackers cannot venture inside the square, so passes across the game

area need to be accurate. Players inside the square cannot venture out.


• Fast, accurate passing

• Possession as a priority. It is important to stay calm.




• Utilising the length and width of the playing area.

• Team B defenders should assess the play and use delaying and blocking tactics

to deny passes, and time their attempts to win the ball accurately. Also

defenders should not overcommit or bunch up. 1 defender should close down

the attacker and the other supporting and anticipating the direction of the

pass.

Players

3 V 3, 4 v 4

Play Area:



Setup:

4 cones to mark-out field. 1 Ball per game. Run 2 game Possession game side-by-side.

Game 3 should be run for 15mins

Objective 1:




























Players


Play Area:



Setup:



Objective:


















Players

Full squad – about 14 (be flexible – use parents or can be played with less)

Team 1 - Defending Team: G-Keeper, 4 x Defenders, 2 x Midfielders

Team 2 - Attacking Team: 3 - 4 x Midfielders, 3 x Attackers

Play Area:

20m x 20m or larger if space is available – make do with what you have!

Setup:

6 cones, one side of pitch setup as a Small Sided Game with goals 3-4m wide. The

other side 2 cones are setup as an end-line to the pitch, one ball. Game 1 played for

30 mins

Objective:

Game 1 – SSG Developing Build-Up Play from Defence

As per all our previous games, teams in possession must be encouraged to build-up

play from their own half and pass the ball in any direction whilst maintaining

possession. The primary objective in this SSG is to focus on developing your teams

defence. All “Restarts” must be returned to the keeper and the build-up play resumes.

Team 1 - The Goalkeeper plays the ball out to one of the four defenders or two

midfielders and they must develop an attack out from defence and attempt to cross

through to the end-line (see diagram) with the ball under control. The team 2 players

(strangely – the attackers) must prevent their play from happening. Team 1 will learn

how to utilise less defended areas by passing and releasing their team-mates into

space and / or intelligent off-the-ball movement and support. Team 1 should use the

entire width and depth of the playing area. The exercise is designed to demonstrate

to Team 1 that a direct or straight ahead playing approach is not always the best

option and to always consider “linking back” even as far as the goalkeeper to

maintain possession and open other attacking opportunities. Team 2 is essentially

learning the art of harassing the opposing defenders, shutting down the passing angles

and “learning to defend from the front”. If they get the ball they may develop their

own attack and shoot for goal.




defenders learn to stay calm and not panic.







Players




Play Area

20m x 20m or larger if space is available. Make do with what you have!

Setup



30 mins

Objective

Game 2 – SSG Developing an Attack from Midfield



possession. The primary objective in this SSG is to focus on developing your team’s

attack- this SSG is basically the reverse of Game 1. All “Restarts” must be returned to a

midfielder on the end-line and the build-up play resumes.

Team 1 deep midfielder plays the ball out to one of the three other midfielders or

three attackers and they must develop an attack from midfield and attempt to score

(see diagram). The team 2 players (Defenders) must prevent their attacking play from

happening. Team 1 will learn how to utilise less defended areas by passing and

releasing their team-mates into space and / or intelligent off-the-ball movement and

support. Team 1 should use the entire width and depth of the playing area. The

exercise is designed to demonstrate to Team 1 that a direct or straight ahead playing

approach is not always the best option and to always consider “linking back” even as

far as the deepest midfielder (in this game but beyond if necessary in a real game) to


learning the art of harassing their attackers, shutting down the passing angles and

“learning to better defend their team’s half. If they get the ball they must develop

their own attack out from defence to the end line.



• Possession as a priority.

• Finding space and regularly looking up to find attacking opportunities






Players


Play Area:



Setup:



Objective:


















Players

7 players 3 v 3 plus neutral Goal-Keeper

Play Area:


Setup:

8 cones setup as illustrated with standard goals say 4 – 5m apart in centre. Games 1 &

2 should be run side-by-side and concurrently for up to 30 - 45 minutes and players

rotated through the games every 10 - 15 minutes. The elements in Game 1 will

condition players for Game 2

Objective:

Game 1 – 3 v 3 plus GK



possession. The primary objective in this SSG is to focus on developing players

dribbling, passing and shooting with emphasis on players combine to create goal-

scoring opportunity shooting at goal at the earliest opportunity.

our team’s attack- this SSG is basically the reverse of Game 1. All “Restarts” must be

returned to a midfielder on the end-line and the build-up play resumes.

.

Team in the dark uniforms can score only from the left side of the field, and team in

white only from the right side.

Re-start game with a throw-in any time the ball goes out of bounds.

When goalkeeper makes a save from one team, he throws the ball into the opposing

half of the field.

Player Objectives

To take early shots from within shooting distance of the goal.

To provide support for the player with the ball. The capacity to play the ball one-touch

at the right time and place on the field has to be considered a lethal attacking

weapon to penetrate defences. First time play is used by attackers to get into tight

spaces, particularly in the oppositions goal area where crowded areas will require

speed of thinking and movement to often surprise the opposition.

The basic element to this game is for attacking players to construct and play quick runs

and execute one – two overlapping passes and once defender has been beaten,

attacker will attempt to score.

Encourage: • High Level of ball technique – good passing, controlling

• Knowing when best to play the ball to a team-mate eg playing the ball into

space less defended and no panic passing.

• Awareness of the game and good communication with team-mate

OR

Players




Play Area


Setup



30 mins

Objective

Game 2 – SSG Developing an Attack from Midfield



possession. The primary objective in this SSG is to focus on developing your team’s

attack- this SSG is basically the reverse of Game 1. All “Restarts” must be returned to a

midfielder on the end-line and the build-up play resumes.

Team 1 deep midfielder plays the ball out to one of the three other midfielders or

three attackers and they must develop an attack from midfield and attempt to score

(see diagram). The team 2 players (Defenders) must prevent their attacking play from

happening. Team 1 will learn how to utilise less defended areas by passing and

releasing their team-mates into space and / or intelligent off-the-ball movement and

support. Team 1 should use the entire width and depth of the playing area. The

exercise is designed to demonstrate to Team 1 that a direct or straight ahead playing

approach is not always the best option and to always consider “linking back” even as

far as the deepest midfielder (in this game but beyond if necessary in a real game) to


learning the art of harassing their attackers, shutting down the passing angles and

“learning to better defend their team’s half. If they get the ball they must develop

their own attack out from defence to the end line.



• Possession as a priority.

• Finding space and regularly looking up to find attacking opportunities






Players


Play Area:



Setup:



Objective:

















WEEK 11 - Training Session

Players

Team

Play Area:


Setup:

10 cones setup as illustrated with standard goals say 3 – 5m apart.

Objective:

Improve Attack / Shooting - Game 1

This game has two drills in one. First drill focuses on the ball control, dribbling through

cones (encourage both feet) and a shot on goal. Second drill is “one – two” passing &

moving between the cones and shot on goal. When a player completes a drill they

move to next drill - keep the practice moving and dynamic.

Encourage: • High Level of ball technique – firm good passing, controlling using both feet,

close ball control

• Knowing when best to play the ball to a team-mate


• Vary speed of runs with and without ball.

• Observe the goalkeepers position and goal area before shooting.

• Ask players to focus on the ball when shooting and aware (develop) of their

own technique.

Players

Team

Play Area


Setup


Objective


This game involves two players in a quick combo play and shot. Run the same drill on

opposite sides of the game area to ensure continuous play. Also start the drill from

right to left with players using their right foot to control and shoot then switch to left to

right with player using left foot.

Player 2 receives a pass and turns the ball goal side from player 1. Player 1 sprints to

receive an angled pass from player 2. Player 1 then takes shot on goal. After the

shot, player 1 now switches roles with player 2 and player 2 lines up with other team-

mates behind the goals. Keep the practice moving and dynamic.

Once players are confident with this style of play, Intensify the game by introducing a

defender. The defender will stand two metres inline with goals and will attempt to

deny the attacker a clear shot on goal and / or win the ball. The defender must

come into play once attackers reach the cone at player 2.

.

Encourage… • High Level of ball technique – firm good passing, controlling using both feet,

close ball control

• Knowing when best to play the ball to a team-mate


• Vary speed of runs with and without ball.

• Observe the goalkeepers position and goal area before shooting.

• Ask players to focus on the ball when shooting and aware (develop) of their

own technique.

Players

Team

Play Area:


Setup:


Objective:


This game involves two players in a fast 1 v 1 play and shot. Goals are setup on both

sides of game area to alternate the direction of play when one direction of play is

complete.

Player 1 hits a long ball to Player 2 who runs out and “anticipates” an attack. Player 1

now the defender sprints out to defend the goals. With limited time, player 2 dribbles

the ball and shoots at goals before defender can block the shot. Ensure attack /

defend roles, plus direction of play switched. Keep the practice moving and dynamic.

Once players are confident with this style of play, Intensify the game by introducing a

second defender. The defenders will stand two metres either side of their goals and

will attempt to deny the attacker a clear shot on goal and / or win the ball. The

defender must come into play once attacker receives the ball.

Players

Team

Play Area:



Setup:

8 cones 4 cones setup as your standard age goals and 4 cones to mark up field, 1 Ball.

Objective:






We encourage free play and emphasis the development of teamwork between the











Sports

10 week Soccer Training Guide for under10_11