Thursday, June 21, 2012

head coach feedback & U4/5 program feedback



Hello coaches,


I am hoping you will take a few minutes to provide a little bit of feedback to myself and RYSA on the head coach position so that we may continue to grow as an organization.  You can reply to myself or to Kim or Heidi who sit on the RYSA board (who I have cced this email to).  Please be constructive with your feedback so that it is useful for us…so please ensure you explain why.  For example, I liked the blog because it was easy to follow and the videos were helpful or I did not like the blog as it was 
difficult to follow and the videos were of no relevance to the subject matter.


I have really enjoyed working with all of you and hope you have had fun coaching youth soccer.


Regards,
Kendra von Bremen
Head Coach, RYSA
  
Coaches Feedback
What age group did you coach?


Did you use the coaching blog and was it useful for you?


Were the practice formats okay and did you have a preference?


Did you have enough access to the head coach?  Was the head coach informative, supportive, knowledgeable and helpful?  Was time spent with the head coach useful?


Did the coaching blog and head coach increase your confidence as a coach?  Did this help your coaching and ultimately your practices?


If you attended a coaching clinic, was it useful and informative? 


Any further recommendations or feedback on the season, the head coach, the blog etc…


U4/5 program (only for U4/5 coaches)
As this was a pilot program please take a moment to answer the following:


What did you like/dislike about the session formats?


Do you think yourself and the parents had enough information on what to expect for this program?


Were the ages appropriate?  Do you think a June cut off would be better, so must turn 4 by end of June of that year? 


Any other feedback or comments on the U4/5 program?



Monday, June 18, 2012

U4/5 wind up

The wind up will go as follows:
4:30-4:45 warm up games and gathering of your team.
4:45-5 -games
5-5:15-awards
5:15-5:30 snacks...provided by RYSA for all players and coaches

Games as follows:
1v5       4v10
2v6       7v11
3v12     8v9

Great job all season coaches, I have been super impressed with the results of this pilot program, and I have received TONS of positive feedback, so WELL DONE!  l
Please fill out the feedback form on the program and the head coach position when you have a minute so RYSA can continue to grow and make things better.
Thanks coaches!!
Kendra

Sunday, June 10, 2012

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR COACHES


RYSA PLAYER EVALUATIONS
Hello Caoches, we are getting closer to the end of the season,
and its time to begin filling out the player evaluations. 
These evaluations are confidential and will only be used by the RYSA in creating House Teams for next season.
 
Please go to the RYSA web site www.revsoccer.com
You will find the evaluations on the front page under COACHES 2012. 
 
It is very important that you take the time to fill out these evaluations as it helps the RYSA to make as fair teams as possible.  We did not receive many last year, which made for making fair teams more difficult.
Thank-you!
The RYSA

U4/5 practices week of June 12

Hello coaches, our final full week of soccer is here.  We will spend the first 1/2 hour doing drills & warm up and then games to finish up the final 15 minutes with a snack and social time at the end.  Tuesday June 19th is the wind up....more on this later in the week.  This week there will be a horn at 5:00 to signal moving to games and a horn to end at 5:15.

Warm up/Agility:  Donkey Tails, Dribble grid (square dance) or your favourite tag game...try this variation of soccer tag for some fun
http://www.soccerxpert.com/soccerdrills/id1256.aspx

Star Wars:  a type of themed obstacle course add onto it with the arches etc..
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/210_star_wars_u46.php

Dribbling drill: Nuts and Squirrels, Indy 500, Pirate Pete


Passing drill- from bytesized coaching try skittle alley
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/209_skittle_alley_u46.php

Shooting drill- "corner shot" from byte sized coaching
or another shooting drill of your choice

Games this week:
Tuesday                    Thursday:
1v9      4v8                  1v6      4v9
2v12    5v11                2v7      5v10
3v7      6v10                3v11    8v12





U6 practice - week of June 12

Final full week of soccer and your final practice.  Wind up on June 19th...where you will be playing your last games.

Warm-up - play a quick game of tag, donkey tails or Coach says then grab some of the agility equipment from the bucket and do a quick Agility session.  Kids love the hurdles and ladders.  You can also do a lot with cones.  Please ensure you share around the agility equipment.  Ideas in the links:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sk_tRrY35Ww&feature=related

Ball warm up:
Play a game of hitters and dodgers, working on dribbling and passing:
http://www.soccerxpert.com/soccerdrills/id1255.aspx
Move to (dribble grid) in that same grid have cones on each side, have everyone dribbling in the grid, when you say cone, they take their ball and dribble 2X around a cone on outside of grid....using outside only or inside only, make sure you use both feet.  Have arches or parents legs or cones set up and then with a partner do small passes when coach says passes.

Introduce Give and Go- no defenders
In your grid, start getting the idea of a give and go without defenders.  Have a parent or another coach and yourself on sides, have players dribble around and do a give and go with people on side of grid.
http://betterfootball.net/soccer-drills/passing-drills/give-and-go-passing-dril/
Move to give and go with shot on goal using coach/parent.

Shooting drills:
-diagonal soccer shooting drill:
http://www.soccerxpert.com/soccerdrills/diagonal-soccer-shooting.aspx
shooting drill that also works on throw ins:  Mack 1 from bytesized soccer
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/10_mack_1.php

Scrimmage:
Don't have kids sitting out in your scrimmages, have everyone playing!  Try for a change, in order to score you must stop the ball on the goal line, this works well with a four goal (from cones) game.

U8 Girls and Boys - week of June 12

Games both days this week due to so many cancellations....check RYSA website on MONDAY night for where and who you are playing.


U10 boys and girls week of June 12

Games both days this week since so many have been cancelled or unfinished!  Check the RYSA website on Monday night for details as to where and who you are playing.

U13 girls - week of June 12

Last practice...Tuesday June 19th is the wind up where you will play your last games.  I will finish up goal keeping with Kevin's group today and then come by each of your practices.

Focus:  1 v 1 
Warm-up- Active warm up with dribbling and passing.

Agility-ladders and hurdles and cones, use as availible

Shooting mechanics more tips
do a quick shooting drill to review shooting mechanics if you like

Drills for 1 v 1 (coaching points for defending and attack at end of drills section) (choose which you like or create/use your own version)
Kings court
-set up enough grids (slightly longer than wide and not super big 10x15 or so) for each pair
-make the grid on one end the kings court that you're trying to get to
-each grid plays 1 v 1 (keeping score) winners move towards kings court or stay in kings court, loosers move down (hint put weeker players close or in kings court to start so they don't feel stuck in the bottom court the whole time)
-to start, one person passes to partner and then the game is live, pass must be a good pass, person who scores passes it to other person have them switch ends
1v1 with shot
-one line with balls by goal post(defenders), one line 20ish yards out (attackers), defending line passes ball to attackers then it's live (really work on good close down and jockeying).  Ensure good pass to start and have them switch lines.
Win ball drill
-two lines facing net (or coming in from sides at top of 18) (or coming from either side of net) (or coming from behind each goal (make a second goal) coach plays ball in and then it's live 1 v 1
1v1 to goal
gauntlet drill
have the defenders move forward in the gauntlet if they win the ball (attacker goes in the grid as a defender if they lose the ball)

Coaching points
Defending:
-quick close down
-delay/give space - don't commit- jockey
-watch ball not player
-boxer stance & on toes
-make the attacker make the mistake
-force to outside/weak side if you know it
-go for ball when attacker has pushed ball away from feet

Attacking:
-attack with speed
-keep ball close
-attack weak side if you know it
-try and catch them flat footed
-exploit them if too close

Defending tips/points

Fun offensive moves you could teach

Scrimmage - allies scrimmage for width if you like (create allies along each sideline where a wing player plays{if short on numbers have one wing player who plays for both teams ie. whichever team passes them the ball they go that way} can't tackle the ally players, must play to allies in order to score

U13 boys- week of June 12

I will be at your practice on Thursday this week....last practice...on Tuesday next week it is the wind up where you will be playing your final games.  I will be doing my last goal keeping session Al's group and then be coming by your groups to check in.

Focus this week:  tackling & working on possession in games

Warm-up:  dribble grid (try adding pulls and dribbling around cone on outside with outside of foot 2x, and inside 2x using both feet.  Play 'shark', reminding them of good shielding technique

Agility:  cones & hurdles (U6's will also be using, so please put back in bin when done)

Start with walking through the basics of tackling (as good tackling technique is imperative) ...you should also spend some time talking about slide tackles....and the importance of clean tackles.  Slide tackles are a last ditch effort, and player must be going for the ball....slide tackles take you out of the game in that you are on the ground and not that effective on the ground hence why you should only use them in a last ditch effort (eg. no other defenders behind you)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lUtauRD5ipo  to get them to understand the basics....quick review

Tackling teaching points:
-non kicking foot next to the ball
-head down, knee and shoulder over the ball
-ankle of tackling foot firm and locked
-knees bent to lower centre of gravity
-contact is made with inside of foot


Try some of these games/drills to get them into tackling situations plus they work on shielding
http://www.footy4kids.co.uk/four_corners_aggressiveness.htm
http://www.footy4kids.co.uk/bang_steal_the_bacon.htm  (bang only)
Can also add onto 1v1 drills from last week, this meshes well into the numbers game below....moving onto timing your tackles and then what to do with the ball once you have won it
(ie) things like playing a simple ball to a team mates feet vrs kicking it and hoping for the best thus creating 50/50 ball where your team then has to then potentially win back possession vrs playing a ball to space.....then move to creating passes and space and finding windows (holes to pass through) within your scrimmage and the idea of playing the ball out wide where there is space

Play the numbers game:  divide into two teams and number (try to get good match ups), two goals, coach plays in 50/50 balls and calls numbers, can start with just 1v1, move to 2v2 and more....then move to scrimmage working on possession and ball movement...incorporate some of the principals of play.

Sunday, June 3, 2012

U4/5 - week of June 5

Stations this week.  Horn every 7 minutes to switch stations...double horn to start and finish.  Have kids move in a counter clockwise direction.  We won't stop for games at the end but each there is a scrimmage station in each set of stations.  Next week we will have games against other teams again.  You will run a different station on Thursday, so that it changes things up, as different coaches have different variations of things, so make sure you check italics for Thursday station.  Also Thursday is wacky hair day, let your kids know on Tuesday, and yes, coaches get out your wacky lids too!

Warm up-  (Britt & Danica) (Dave)                          thursday (Keith & Helen) (Jamie & Steph)
Freeze tag (play first without balls, then add balls where you have to kiss balls in order to be free).

Obstacle course - (Keith & Helen) (Jamie & Steph)  thurs (Mel & Kris) (Jordan & Jill)
use up to 6 arches and whatever else you can think of....come up with a theme of some sort

Goal keeping - (Mel & Kris) (Jordan & Jill)       thurs (Heather & Anna) (Tami & Careen)
Review basics, starting on knees with basic scoop technique (I like to use the term 'lock the box' so they bring ball under complete control) rolling it back and forth with a partner.  Could have them dive from knees...then move to standing up and scooping (don't let it go through legs!).  Play game where you spread balls around grid and they run around grid, when you say ball or dive they jump on a ball, play like musical chairs but keep everyone playing...make sure there is one less ball so they have to hunt every time.

Soccer bowling (shooting/passing accuracy) OR downtown cruising (dribbling)(Heather & Anna) (Tami & Careen)         thurs (Kim & Chris) (Jordan)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKGyrJGmJNk&feature=relmfu
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/201_downtown_cruising_u46.php

Shooting - (Kim & Chris) (Jordan)   thurs (Blake & Alicia) (Lili & Alei)
pick your favourite shooting drill or game that we have done
(could be crocs and swamps, 4 goal shooting on mom & dad, 1v1 from sides, numbers game one goal etc...or your own variation)

Scrimmage - (Blake & Alicia) (Lili & Alei)  thurs (Britt & Danica) (Dave)
small field, use pinnies so they can see who is on their team even if this has limited meaning at this point.  Encourage throw-ins if out of play using correct technique.  Goalies if you like.









U6 practice - week of June 5

I will be at your practices on Thursday with my wacky hair-do as it's wacky hair day...remind your kids so that they can plan their hair in advance!!  I will come by each group and work with you or jump in as needed.  This week we're going to spend some time on goal keeping and throw ins.

Warm-up - Dribble grid (right foot, left foot only or other foot, storks/toe taps, tic-tocs, turns, fakes?,  knee to ball, head to ball etc....) Then have coaches or parents act as sharks trying to get the balls away from the players....if player loses ball, then play that either they become a shark or that they lose their ball to person who took it away and then become a shark or that they have 5 toe taps and then back in the game.

Throw-ins - take time to review proper throw in technique.  Have them in partners throwing back and forth to each other.
-two hands on the ball
-ball goes all the way behind the head
-two feet planted on the ground
-throw the way you are facing

Obstacle course - use the arches and create a themed obstacle course of some sort or try relays.  Use the arches for passing through, crawling through, dribbling through etc...
Try adding onto Star Wars:
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/210_star_wars_u46.php


Shooting drill- "corner shot" from byte sized coaching
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/229_corner_shot_u46.php
or another shooting drill of your choice

Goal keeping- spend some time reviewing goal keeping.  Start them with partners, rolling ball back and forth to each other, working on scooping the ball up and "locking the box".  Have them try diving from their knees stopping the ball and "locking the box".  Play a round of GK circle game, or create your own game with goal keeping....perhaps have them be worms and try and get those dribbling around etc...
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/226_roll_and_catch_u46.php
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/215_diving_at_feet_u46.php
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/14_gk_circle_game.php

Scrimmage of some sort to end!

U8 boys & girls - week of June 5

U8 boys, you are working on your own this week.  This week we are working on passing with the weaker foot as well as moving after you pass...trying to get the idea of a give n go!  I will finish up working on goal keeping next week when I see you.

U8 girls, I will be at your practice and working with each group on goal keeping.  I will set up somewhere on the field and then cycle groups through, starting with Natalie's group and then Cassie/Riley's group.  I will be covering the basics of goal keeping with the exception of positioning.  Make sure you incorporate some shooting (see shooting drills from week of May 22 for more ideas in the blog archive on the right) into your practice this week so the girls have a chance to practice goal keeping.  I will do my best to try and work with all your groups.

Lots of fun warm-up ideas try a few.
Agility & non ball warm-up- try a game of link tag for fun-and ladders/hurdles if you want
Ball warm up- play frozen tag with balls, where if you are tagged, person has to dribble through your legs to free you.
More ball warm up.  Pairs, each pair has a triangle of cones about two feet apart.  They must dribble different sequences around the triangle of cones, using only outside of foot, only inside of foot, figure 8's, circle each cone twice etc...whatever you want to throw in, but make sure they use both feet, work intensely for 1 minute and switch.  Great drill to work on footwork with ball which all of these players need.
Obstacle course for fun using arches and cones if you like.  Could incorporate hurdles and ladders as part of it too and have a ball and non ball part.

Circle Drill to review passing with weaker foot only!!
could also do basic shuttle drills with having them pass half way with weaker foot.  As this gets them moving a bit more.
or Keep your yard/room clean
http://www.coachingsoccer101.com/keepyardclean.htm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ju7gXm_4eBQ&feature=relmfu

Passing and Moving Drill (working on following your pass and opening up as you receive...first drill on link only)

Basic Give and Go Drill
Start with a "dummy" defender/cone...move to live defender.  Have them shoot after wall pass.
move to this drill

Scrimmage - ally soccer again to work on passing to wings and try to get give and go happening with the ally player!  See previous U8 posts for more explanation.


U13 girls - week of June 5

We'll pick up where we left off last week.  I'll continue working with groups on goal keeping (finishing Gerald & Steve's crew first) and we'll just carry on with last weeks practice plan.  View the blog archive to pull it up.  Feel free to work in 1v1 too (that was supposed to be this weeks focus...now next weeks!).

Saturday, May 26, 2012

U4/5 practice - week of May 29

I will have you run another week with just your team and then we will do a round of stations next week again.  Next Thursday June 7 will be wacky hair day...please put the word out.  We will do games for the last 15 minutes again this week (see who plays who at the end), same format with horn to move to games and horn to end.

Warm-up/Agility - coach says
start no balls, move to with balls - get them moving and work on some skills, toe taps, shooting, dribbling, tic-tocs, turns etc...
Warm up game:  Cow Dogs  (working on dribbling and defending)
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/15_cow_dogs.php

Dribbling review - Fun Island
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fsof4AMWQRo
use the area you always work in

Obstacle course
I'll have the arches out, share them around, but use them to crawl under, dribble through or pass through...add cones to dribble around, a goal to shoot on etc...Dave had a haunted house theme last week which was fantastic, use you imaginations

1 v 1 attack
two goals, have half team on each side line, when you call their names they go and challenge a ball that you roll in, each team having a goal they need to score on

Throw-ins
Have the kids just work on throw-in technique.  In pairs just throwing the ball back and forth (don't spend long, but it's important to review this)  
-Two hands on the ball, 
-all the way behind the head
-(TRY) and keep feet on the ground

Turn & Burn
Divide players into two teams – put them in different colored pinnis One team starts on one end of the grid with a ball each. Objective is for players with the ball to dribble towards the players without, who remain stationary. The coach shouts “Turn” and the players with the ball stop, turn and try to dribble back to their starting line. When the players without the ball here the coach shout “Turn” he players without the ball can release and try and steal the balls of the apposing team before they get back over the safe line. Take turns having both teams being attackers/defenders. Do not eliminate players who lose their ball. Let them have another go.
Variations: Introduce specific turns: big toe turn, little toe turn, pull back, etc.


Games:  3v3 - goalies optional
-focus on quick rotation of subs - every 3-4 minutes
-let's try throw-ins if it goes out the side, and just pass/kick ins if it goes out the end.


Tuesday:                                 Thursday:
1 v 4   7 v 10                        1 v 12   4 v 7
2 v 5   8 v 11                        2 v 11   5 v 8
3 v 6   9 v 12                        3 v 10   6 v 9

U6 practice - week of May 29

U6 practice - you will be running your own practices again this week.  I will do another round of stations for next week.  Also next Thursday June 7th will be wacky hair day for players and coaches.  Please put the word out!

Warm up game:  Cow Dogs  (working on dribbling and defending)
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/15_cow_dogs.php

Turn and Burn- dribbling with speed
Divide players into two teams – put them in different colored pinnis One team starts on one end of the grid with a ball each. Objective is for players with the ball to dribble towards the players without, who remain stationary. The coach shouts “Turn” and the players with the ball stop, turn and try to dribble back to their starting line. When the players without the ball here the coach shout “Turn” he players without the ball can release and try and steal the balls of the apposing team before they get back over the safe line. Take turns having both teams being attackers/defenders. Do not eliminate players who lose their ball. Let them have another go.
Variations: Introduce specific turns: big toe turn, little toe turn, pull back, etc.

Passing/shooting for accuracy:  Circle game
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/17_circle_game.php
**Review key coaching points for either passing/shooting technique whichever you use this drill to focus on.

Shooting- Lay off drill
Two lines, facing coach, each player has a ball.  Player passes to coach who lays ball off to one side, player runs onto ball and shoots on net.

Shooting- 1 v 1 to goal
Start with two lines; (Attackers & Defenders) with the attackers slightly ahead of the defenders. The attackers start to dribble with the ball towards goal. Once the attacker is an appropriate distance away, the coach tells the defender to go and put pressure on the attacking player from behind. If defending player wins the ball they try and pass it back to the coach.
Coaches: Allow for offensive success at first and be mindful of the different physical and technical abilities of the players when deciding when to release the defender. Game can be played with or without goalkeeper.

Numbers game: two goals
focus on 1 v 1 attacking, getting past a player.

(coaching points:  attack with speed, keep ball close to you)

Four goal scrimmage....focus on attacking and scoring!  1 goal on each side of grid.  Coach have a stash of balls with you to restart game if ball goes out.


U8 Boys practice - May 29

Focus: Goal keeping session & 1 v 1 attack.

Warm up, let's do a mass split warm up with half on Agility with Kim and half with me to do ball warm up (then switch).  Then we'll move into practice, where you will each work with your own crew (we'll do another round of stations next week).
I'm not sure how the goal keeping will go....I was just going to have each coach bring their crew over for the goal keeping portion....I'll find a wee spot on the field.  I may have to double up teams as time will be an issue.  I will do a basic goal keeping session with the kids...covering the basics including diving.

Fun little game & shooting review all  in one!  Targets
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_wxCfL92L_k&feature=relmfu
coaching points are in the link

Passing under pressure.  Moving the passing along (remember to review the basics AGAIN!)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yi9J2uRirZc&feature=relmfu

1 v 1 attack - pick from the drills below as you see fit or create/use your own
(three adptations of drill below)
drill- (adapt as needed) one line with balls on goal post(defenders), one line without balls about 15 yards out. Have the defender pass ball out to offensive player and then close down for a 1 v 1. Or could have both lines coming from goal (could be numbers game below) and coach roles a ball out players run around cones at 15 yard mark (one cone in line with each post) and then play 1 v 1 (you could establish who is on O and who is on D prior or just whoever gets to the ball first is O. Or have two goals, and have players running from the side lines or each goal (small area 20 yard grid) and the ball gets played into middle by coach and it's one v one each having a goal to score in, one could be a shooting goal and one could be a passing target.
and/or
Numbers game - one goal
Set up a small grid with goal at one end. Separate players into 2 teams lined up on each side of goal. Place two cones just a bit further than shooting distance even with corners of goal, and place yourself between with a stash of balls. Number players 1,2,3,4,5 etc. Call out a number. That numbered player on each team must race around the cones into the field where a ball is played. Players are trying to both defend and score on the same net. Encourage celebrations after a goal! Progress to 2 or 3 players. Add a goalkeeper

Defending points
-close down space quickly
-boxer stants and on toes
-keep about 2-3 yards space between you and attacker -so don't commit to ball - jockey
-watch the ball not the player
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7Tn3cFmrCg&feature=relmfu
Attacking points
-attack with speed
-keep ball close

Scrimmage to end!

U8 girls practice week of May 29

Stations again this week, we'll run as we did two weeks ago.  Renee could you blow whistle to switch stations ever 8-10 minutes.

Set up width wise (not length wise as you do for games)....girls front two fields, boys back two fields or it becomes too difficult to hear switches and move efficiently

Warm-up - dribble grid & passing grid with all players.   (Cassie or Riley to run)  (10 minutes)
                - dribbling, inside, outside, storks, tic tocs, turns, fakes,
                - passing- as last week, pass run around cone on outside of grid, receive pass (review passing  points and remind to talk and use the whole grid)

Then have all players return to their coaches to start stations.

Station 1-  agility - Natalie
Donkey Tails
Half the players are given a pinni to tuck into the back of their shorts as a tail. Coach shouts “Go!” players without a tail attempt to grab a tail from the players with one. Once players get a tail they must now avoid having it taken.

Station 2- passing review - Hrvojka
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/25_kings_court_passing.php
OR
Shuttles....groups of 3/4.  cones about 10 ft apart....2 players on each cone across from each other start with just dribbling across to player in front of line across from them in a continuous shuttle motion, move to dribble part way and pass.  Review passing points!

Station 3- shooting review- Renee
Lay off drill from last week.  Could add a defender, dummy to start.
Review shooting coaching points.

Simple activity of two lines, each kid with a ball facing coach/team mate.  Pass to coach or team mate who lays off the ball to side for a shot
(first drill on page) - worry less about if they are shooting in or out of penalty area

Station 4- 1 v 1 attacking - Riley & Cassie
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSBu9bPMp4g&feature=relmfu
OR
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/15_cow_dogs.php

Scrimmage to end.  Have fun!!  Try a scrimmage with allies on the side to promote width in play.
Set up a small field and then use cones to create allies along the wings.  Put one player from each team in the allies or if low numbers, put one player in the wings they must stay in the ally and they play for both teams.  You can't check/attack/tackle the wings in the ally...like a safe zone.  Play that in order to shoot on net the team must play a ball out to the wings at least once.  Wings can dribble in the ally.


U10/U13 boys - week of May 29

I will be at your practices this week.  Focus:  1 v 1 (defending) & goal keeping.
With the U13 boys, I am going to work on goal keeping, I will cycle each group through for a short 15 minute goal keeping session, then when you are working on the 1 v 1 drills you can use keepers when there is shooting involved.  Coaches if you could get the lads warmed up and then I will get going pretty quickly with the keeper training.
With the U10 boys, I will work with Corbett and Alan/Sandy/Rory's groups.  We will do a quick warm up with both your groups, where I will run the drill and we will all coach as you know the kids names.  After the warm up we will split off into our teams to work on agility and 1v1, where I will spend time with each group working on basic goal keeping skills and you will then work on 1 v 1 attack using goalies. 
Adrien/Jose and Matthew's groups you'll be working on your own.  If I have time to do some goal keeping with one/both of your groups I will.  We'll cycle through the agility ladders/hurdles as it is availible (ie) jump on whenever it fits.
Warm-up-dribble &/ passing grid.  Probably a little work in pairs doing tap backs in the air like last week is a good idea too (include jumping over a cone or ball for a little agility if you like).  See end of last weeks warm up post for more details.

Agility-ladders and hurdles and cones, use as availible

Shooting mechanics more tips
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjxwZR9FSDI&feature=relmfu
do a quick shooting drill to review shooting mechanics if you like

Drills for 1 v 1 (coaching points for defending and attack at end of drills section) (choose which you like or create/use your own version)
Kings court
-set up enough grids (slightly longer than wide and not super big 10x15 or so) for each pair
-make the grid on one end the kings court that you're trying to get to
-each grid plays 1 v 1 (keeping score) winners move towards kings court or stay in kings court, loosers move down (hint put weeker players close or in kings court to start so they don't feel stuck in the bottom court the whole time)
-to start, one person passes to partner and then the game is live, pass must be a good pass, person who scores passes it to other person have them switch ends
1v1 with shot
-one line with balls by goal post(defenders), one line 20ish yards out (attackers), defending line passes ball to attackers then it's live (really work on good close down and jockeying).  Ensure good pass to start and have them switch lines.
Win ball drill
-two lines facing net (or coming in from sides at top of 18) (or coming from either side of net) (or coming from behind each goal (make a second goal) coach plays ball in and then it's live 1 v 1
1v1 to goal
http://www.soccerxpert.com/soccerdrills/id1282.aspx
gauntlet drill
http://3v3soccer.blogspot.ca/2009/05/gauntlet-drill.html
have the defenders move forward in the gauntlet if they win the ball (attacker goes in the grid as a defender if they lose the ball)

Coaching points
Defending:
-quick close down
-delay/give space - don't commit- jockey
-watch ball not player
-boxer stance & on toes
-make the attacker make the mistake
-force to outside/weak side if you know it
-go for ball when attacker has pushed ball away from feet

Attacking:
-attack with speed
-keep ball close
-attack weak side if you know it
-try and catch them flat footed
-exploit them if too close

Defending tips/points
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7Tn3cFmrCg&feature=relmfu
http://3v3soccer.blogspot.ca/search/label/3v3%20soccer%20defense

Fun offensive moves you could teach
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfZjK1A0rto&feature=relmfu
http://3v3soccer.blogspot.ca/search/label/1v1%20soccer%20moves

Scrimmage - allies scrimmage for width if you like (create allies along each sideline where a wing player plays{if short on numbers have one wing player who plays for both teams ie. whichever team passes them the ball they go that way} can't tackle the ally players, must play to allies in order to score

U13 girls practice - week of May 29

This weeks focus skill is shooting.  I also want to spend a little time on goal keeping.  I am going to work with Amanda/Erica and Gerald's groups for goal keeping and shooting this week.  Next week I will work with  Kevin & Randy's groups for goal keeping and 1 v 1.  As I don't think I will get to everyone....but I will try.  (Randy, if you want to move to 1 v 1 as you covered shooting this week, please do check the U10 boys if you want some drill ideas).  I plan to cover the basics of goal keeping including diving....I plan to work with all the girls in your groups as sometimes they don't know that they like goal, and this way everyone has a basic set of skills.  Plan to keep the goalie sessions to 15ish minutes and then you can work the goalies into the shooting drills is my thinking.  Coaches if you could get girls warmed up and then I'll get things going pretty quickly.  The first three links below review the mechanics of shooting if you need a refresher.


Warm up:  Quick Dribble grid 3-5 minutes then in that same grid move to passing...split groups into two teams each team with a ball.  Number the players on each team and then have them moving around the grid passing in number order, ie 1 to 2 passes to 3 to 4 to 1 to 2 etc...then have them go backwards 4 to 3 to 2 etc... working on cutting to the ball and calling with purpose (support, through etc...) also work on opening up to the field of play as you receive the pass so you know where your next pass is.  If they are really on top of it, play with only one ball and move so one team is defending...always working in number order if your team has the ball.  So everytime there is a turnover they must start the number order from whoever wins or has the ball if it is 3 they are looking for 4 etc...  (this is an excellent drill for many aspects of the game, you will likely find a number of teachable moments just from how play evolves.
Last part of warm up, in pairs, about 2 metres apart each with a ball.  One player is the server, the other player is the person, striking ball.  Aim to strike ball served/lobbed to partner back to partners hands.   (Optional agility component:  Player striking the ball jumps sideways over their ball before receiving next serve)....Person striking the ball, works 5 on each foot side of foot (then switch roles) then 5 on each foot working the laces....one touch back to partners hands (ball always in the air)...starting to prepare for shooting...hitting on the laces.

Agility:  Try just cones for agility this week...keep the session short but snappy.  You might try a line of cones (about 2feet apart) per pair of players (or per two pairs).  One player on each side of the cones one who is the leader and the other who is following trying to mimic follow exactly what the leader is doing for 30 seconds and then switch the leader and the follower.  Start side shuffle so they are facing each other and the leader is shuffling side to side as fast as possible moving to whichever cone but it needs to be a different cone each time.  Then go backwards and forwards.  Have them switch partners.  Remind them to have quick feet and not cross their feet when shuffling sideways.  Quick dynamic stretching focussing on quads, hamstrings and groins.

Skill focus shooting mechanics
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ac8r9XlSWo0&feature=relmfu
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3wi0tehvIw&feature=relmfu
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjxwZR9FSDI&feature=relmfu
Coaching points:
-planting foot pointing at the target
-planting foot next to ball if too far back, ball will go up because you will be forced to lean
-striking ball with inside laces, toe pointed down ankle locked
-knee over ball (of striking foot)
-shoulder over the ball (head down as striking)
-quick snap and follow through
-always strike a moving  ball

skill focus:  shooting
simple activity of two lines, each kid with a ball facing coach/team mate.  Pass to coach or team mate who lays off the ball to side for a shot
http://expertfootball.com/coaching/shooting.php
(first drill on page) - worry less about if they are shooting in or out of penalty area

can adapt this drill slightly and add a defender, where the coach/player who was initially receiving for layoff, now this player is the attacker (back to net), defender behind them, attacker receives pass and needs to turn and play a shot on goal (have defender play dummy to start and play tight...then move to live defender)

skill focus: shooting (good warm up for pre games too)
4 corner shooting drill
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuz6JGaEYtY&feature=related

skill focus:  shooting under pressure
2v2 game
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/64_2_by_4_shooting.php

Scrimmage:  try a 4 goal scrimmage to promote attacking and shooting the ball for something different

Set up a 20m x 20m grid with 4 goals in the middle of each side. Select two teams consisting of equal numbers. Call out 2 or 3 players from each team to run onto the field and play against each other and try and score in any one of the four goals until the coach says stop. At which time both groups return to their place behind the goal line and the coach calls another group to play. If the ball goes out of play the game can be restarted with a “kick-in” or the coach may serve in a new ball. Progressions could involve assigning 2 nets to each team to defend and 2 to attack.

Friday, May 18, 2012

U4/5 practices week of May 22

Hello coaches!
You have been doing a great job this week with your practices, I love all the variations on the drills!  Please make sure you email me or ask if you have questions or need help or want me to spend more time with your group.  For this week you will be running your own practices with your teams again, however we will spend the last 10-15 minutes playing a game against another team (horn will signal moving to games and end of games).  A couple of teams will have to use cones for goals and field outline.  We'll keep the fields small.  The rest of practice will be drills, pick from the list or add one or two of your own (you will not get through the list in one day, so should have lots for two days).  See who plays who at the end of this post.  I have added coaching points, the older kids may be able to grasp some of these, many of the three year olds won't....I put them in so you can start giving some guidance around these things to start developing some good habits, but don't get bogged down by them.  It may be as simple as passing using the side of foot and shooting using the inner laces (NOT the TOE).  One more reminder, most of you have noticed that there are not enough of the little nets for everyone to have two, so please try and share them around, some coaches have barely had use of them.  Thanks!!! :)

warm-up/agility:  chain tag, when the person who is it catches someone they link up/hold hands and try to catch others, if chain gets too big break into smaller

warm-up/agility/dribbling: me and my shadow
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/233_me_and_my_shadow_u46.php

skill: dribbling - square dance
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/227_square_dance_u46.php

skill:  passingPirate Pete
(can be found in Active start program)
Divide the players into two teams. Put the teams in two different pinni colors. One team has to run through the channel to get to the treasure (balls). The other team kicks the ball to the player running through the channel mate trying to hit the other team with the ball below the knee as they run through. If players get struck by the ball they have to go back and try again. When players get to treasure (Ball) they bring back a peace back to their ship. Players change roles after a set time. Count the pieces (Balls) each team collects.
Variations Easier (U4): Players can role the ball rather than kick it. Players can carry treasure back in their hands. Parents can help. Harder (U6): Players can shoot the ball. Players can dribble both ways with the ball.
coaching points for passing:
-non kicking/planting foot next to ball
-non kicking/planting foot pointing at target
-strike ball with side of foot with ankle locked

skill: passing/shooting: Topple me Coconuts
(can be found in Active start program)
Split players into 2 teams and have them line-up as shown below. Place balls on top of cones like coconuts. Ask players to alternate making passes/shots to try and knock the ball off of a cone. If a player is successful they can go and retrieve both balls and bring them back to their side. Encourage celebrations!

skill:  shooting
Make 4 goals on each side of the grid (use cones or grab a couple of arches which I will bring to the field).  Put parents/coaches in goals and then have the kids work on dribbling around and shooting on each goal.  Count how many times you score!


coaching points for shooting:
-non kicking/planting foot next to ball
-non kicking/planting foot pointing at target
-strike ball with laces, toe pointed down and ankle locked

skill- numbers game-one net...focus shooting
(Active start plan 3)
Set up a small grid with goal at one end.  Separate players into 2 teams lined up on each side of goal.  Place two cones just a bit further than shooting distance even with corners of goal, and place yourself between with a stash of balls.  Number players 1,2,3,4,5 etc. Call out a number. That numbered player on each team must race around the cones into the field where a ball is played. Players are trying to both defend and score on the same net. Encourage celebrations after a goal! Progress to 2 or 3 players. Add a goalkeeper (might just keep it at one number (set of players) coming out at a time)


scrimmage:  3 v 3 (no goalies)
Tuesday:  team 1 vrs 2     5 vrs 6    9 vrs 10        Thursday:  team 1 vrs 3   5 vrs 7    9 vrs 11
                         3 vrs 4    7 vrs 8   11 vrs  12                                  2 vrs 4   6 vrs  8  10 vrs 12

Work on learning the boundaries of the field (make sure you show and run the kids around the boundary) and when it goes out to run and get it but then listen for the coach for whose ball it is (opposite team from who kicked it out).  I would not worry about throw ins at this point, but do a pass in.  Also practice subbing- sub all players every 2-3 minutes.  And of course the score doesn't matter.  Also work on being a sporting player and team so cheer for the other team at the end.

Snack and social

U6 practice - May 24

I will be at your practices this week.  I will be coming around and working with you and your team (I will not get around to everyone).  I will work with you and your players wherever you are at.  Trying to focus on giving individual players help/feedback etc...  Also use me to demo drills if you need.
As always here is a progression of age appropriate drills.  Use them if you like or your own variations or drills that promote the focus.  Don't feel you have to get through all or use all, choose which you like.  Have fun!

Focus/skill: shooting


warm up/agility:  Coach says (Simon says)
Active warm up in a 15x15 grid...start with no balls.
hopping, jumping, running, skipping, frog jumps etc.... progress to using a ball and using toe taps, dribbling, jumping over ball etc...

dribbling & passing
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/233_me_and_my_shadow_u46.php

passing for accuracy:  soccer bowling
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKGyrJGmJNk&feature=relmfu


skill - shoot and score
(active start plan 5)
Separate team into 2 (or more if possible) as shown. Set up a triangle. The coach stands in the centre of the triangle.  Two lines of players facing coach (who has back to net). Players pass ball to coach and lay it off to player.  Player strikes the ball into the empty goal.
-Coach now plays ball in front. Player takes a touch past the coach with the outside of foot passed the coach and strikes the ball into the empty net.
-Player dribbles towards the coach and takes the touch past the coach and plays into the empty net.

Shooting coaching points (there are a lot, so here are a few)

-planting foot next to ball pointing at target
-strike ball with inside laces (NOT TOE)
-point striking foot down and lock the ankle
-head down, shoulders, hips, knees over ball
-follow through

skill - 3 Goals shooting game
(active start plan 5)
Four teams of three players working in a 25m. x 15m. area. Three teams line up in rows at one end of the playing area ready to attack the goal. The other team has one player in goal and two as target players, standing between two cones, as shown. The first team runs with the ball to the
midpoint line. The first player to cross the midway line shoots at the goal. The second player to cross the line can pass to whichever target player he/she wishes. The third player across the line passes to the remaining target player. All three attacking players then change places with the Goalkeeper and target players they shot at, or passed to. The goalkeeper/target players collect the balls and go to the back of the attacking teams and await their turn.

skill- numbers game-one net...focus shooting
(Active start plan 3)
Set up a small grid with goal at one end.  Separate players into 2 teams lined up on each side of goal.  Place two cones just a bit further than shooting distance even with corners of goal, and place yourself between with a stash of balls.  Number players 1,2,3,4,5 etc. Call out a number. That numbered player on each team must race around the cones into the field where a ball is played. Players are trying to both defend and score on the same net. Encourage celebrations after a goal! Progress to 2 or 3 players. Add a goalkeeper

Scrimmage- try a four goal scrimmage to promote shooting and attacking.  Create a grid and place a goal on each side line.




U8 boys practice - May 22

I will be working with the girls this week.  Here is a basic practice plan.  Ensure you give a good amount of time for the scrimmage at the end as the format of the scrimmage will work on using the wings.  As always, if you have another good drill to promote the skill use it!  And of course don't feel you need to get through all of these drills, pick and choose as you feel appropriate.

Focus skill:  shooting

Warm up/Agility - no balls
Play a game of donkey tails
Half have pinnies as tales in shorts, other half try and get as many pinnies as possible or some variation of this.

Warm up- with balls
Dribble Grid and then play shark

Passing & Receiving Review - try shuttles, continuous passing (groups of 3 or 4)...start two touch, move to one touch, move closer for one touch shuttles.  Idea of pass and move.  Could start drill by having them just dribbling and then moving to passing.  Really focus on coaching points of passing and receiving - especially first touch in the two touch passing.


**Agility Relays - ladders & cones, share around ladders

Skill focus shooting mechanics
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ac8r9XlSWo0&feature=relmfu
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3wi0tehvIw&feature=relmfu
Coaching points:
-planting foot pointing at the target
-planting foot next to ball if too far back, ball will go up because you will be forced to lean
-striking ball with inside laces, toe pointed down ankle locked
-knee over ball (of striking foot)
-shoulder over the ball (head down as striking)
-quick snap and follow through
-always strike a moving  ball

skill focus:  shooting
simple activity of two lines, each kid with a ball facing coach/team mate.  Pass to coach or team mate who lays off the ball to side for a shot
http://expertfootball.com/coaching/shooting.php
(first drill on page) - worry less about if they are shooting in or out of penalty area

can adapt this drill slightly and add a defender, where the coach/player who was initially receiving for layoff, now this player is the attacker (back to net), defender behind them, attacker receives pass and needs to turn and play a shot on goal (have defender play dummy to start and play tight...then move to live defender)

skill- numbers game-one net...focus shooting 
Set up a small grid with goal at one end/use penalty area.  Separate players into 2 teams lined up on each side of goal.  Place two cones just a bit further than shooting distance even with corners of goal, and place yourself between with a stash of balls.  Number players 1,2,3,4,5 etc. Call out a number. That numbered player on each team must race around the cones into the field where a ball is played. Players are trying to both defend and score on the same net. Encourage celebrations after a goal! Progress to 2 or 3 players. Add a goalkeeper

Scrimmage - try a scrimmage with allies on each side of the field where one designated player from each team plays (no checking or tackling in the allies).  Goal of scrimmage is to use these wings/ally players each time you move to attack.  Must use allies in order to attempt to score on goal.  The player in the ally can play anywhere in the ally but must stay in ally until coach switches their position.
Move to regular scrimmage and use this time to work on items that need attention from your games like throw ins etc...

U8 girls practice - May 22



I am planning on splitting the group in half and working with half the group and their coaches.  The other half of the group will work in part together for the warm up.  Remember we are working on creating a coaching community where all can gain from each other.  Then we will move to coaches working with just their team including the inter-squad scrimmage.  I need to stress that you should be keeping your scrimmages small as it increases the number of touches on the ball each player has and allows players to work on their skills.

Skill focus:  shooting

When I am working with your group, I still want you to coach and jump in whenever/wherever you see fit/have something to add!  I will run the warm up drill(s) but will need you to do the coaching as you know your players names.

U8's  Cassie, Riley & Natalie
          Hrvojka & Renee (I will work with your groups)

**Warm up - Dribble grid - passing grid.  Start with simple dribble grid, but have players partner up.  Play follow the leader, first partner is leader and runs around, cutting in grid while second partner (ball carrier) follows them moving the ball in the pattern of the first.  When the partner with the ball yells stop, the front player stops, ball carrier passes a small pass past them, leader runs onto ball and they switch roles.  Add through the legs, ball and ball carrier, leap frog etc....
Progress to passing in partners and then threes(?), pass and move in the grid, working on nice passes and opening up as you are receiving the ball, good first touch...lots of talk.
I will have the arches at the field, so can use those here in a follow the leader type game, dribbling through arches, when coach says switch, players switch, when coach says passes, either one touch or two touch through the arches.

**Agility Relays - hurdles & cones session (first coaching pair goes first, the second coaching pair will go after first skill drill, or when free.

Skill focus shooting mechanics
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ac8r9XlSWo0&feature=relmfu
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3wi0tehvIw&feature=relmfu
Coaching points:
-planting foot pointing at the target
-planting foot next to ball if too far back, ball will go up because you will be forced to lean
-striking ball with inside laces, toe pointed down ankle locked
-knee over ball (of striking foot)
-shoulder over the ball (head down as striking)
-quick snap and follow through
-always strike a moving  ball

skill focus:  shooting
simple activity of two lines, each kid with a ball facing coach/team mate.  Pass to coach or team mate who lays off the ball to side for a shot
http://expertfootball.com/coaching/shooting.php
(first drill on page) - worry less about if they are shooting in or out of penalty area

can adapt this drill slightly and add a defender, where the coach/player who was initially receiving for layoff, now this player is the attacker (back to net), defender behind them, attacker receives pass and needs to turn and play a shot on goal (have defender play dummy to start and play tight...then move to live defender)

skill- numbers game-one net...focus shooting 
Set up a small grid with goal at one end/use penalty area.  Separate players into 2 teams lined up on each side of goal.  Place two cones just a bit further than shooting distance even with corners of goal, and place yourself between with a stash of balls.  Number players 1,2,3,4,5 etc. Call out a number. That numbered player on each team must race around the cones into the field where a ball is played. Players are trying to both defend and score on the same net. Encourage celebrations after a goal! Progress to 2 or 3 players. Add a goalkeeper

Scrimmage - try a four goal scrimmage to promote attacking and shooting.  Have coach at a corner of field with balls to serve in after goals are scored.  Have girls cut to ball.  Move to a regular scrimmage when needed.

U10 girls practices - May 22



I am planning on splitting the group in half and working with half the group and their coaches.  The other half of the group will work in part together for the warm up (longer if you want).  Remember we are working on creating a coaching community where all can gain from each other.  Then we will move to coaches working with just their team including the inter-squad scrimmage.  I need to stress that you should be keeping your scrimmages small as it increases the number of touches on the ball each player has and allows players to work on their skills.

When I am working with your group, I still want you to coach and jump in whenever/wherever you see fit/have something to add!  I will run the warm up drill(s) but you will need to coach as you know your players and their names!

 Arlana & Heather
 Nadine & Julie (I will work with your groups)

**Warm up - Dribble grid - passing grid.  Start with simple dribble grid, but have players partner up.  Play follow the leader, first partner is leader and runs around, cutting in grid while second partner (ball carrier) follows them moving the ball in the pattern of the first.  When the partner with the ball yells stop, the front player stops, ball carrier passes a small pass past them, leader runs onto ball and they switch roles.  Add through the legs, ball and ball carrier, leap frog etc....   Progress to passing in partners and then threes(?), pass and move in the grid, working on nice passes and opening up as you are receiving the ball, good first touch...lots of talk.

**Agility Relays - hurdles & cones session (first coaching pair goes first, the second coaching pair will go after first skill drill, or when free.

Partner drill - touch backs in the air
Each pair will have a ball and a cone.  Facing each other about 1.5 m apart.  Partner with ball serves ball in air to partner who uses side of foot to one touch it back to partners hands (5 with R, 5 with L and switch), progress to using the laces.  Between each serve, player jumps laterally over cone.  Remind them to lock their ankles and control weight on the ball.

Skill focus shooting mechanics
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ac8r9XlSWo0&feature=relmfu
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3wi0tehvIw&feature=relmfu
Coaching points:
-planting foot pointing at the target
-planting foot next to ball if too far back, ball will go up because you will be forced to lean
-striking ball with inside laces, toe pointed down ankle locked
-knee over ball (of striking foot)
-shoulder over the ball (head down as striking)
-quick snap and follow through
-always strike a moving  ball


skill focus:  shooting
simple activity of two lines, each kid with a ball facing coach/team mate.  Pass to coach or team mate who lays off the ball to side for a shot
http://expertfootball.com/coaching/shooting.php
(first drill on page) - worry less about if they are shooting in or out of penalty area

can adapt this drill slightly and add a defender, where the coach/player who was initially receiving for layoff, now this player is the attacker (back to net), defender behind them, attacker receives pass and needs to turn and play a shot on goal (have defender play dummy to start and play tight...then move to live defender)

skill focus: shooting (good warm up for pre games too)
4 corner shooting drill
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuz6JGaEYtY&feature=related

skill focus:  shooting under pressure
2v2 game
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/64_2_by_4_shooting.php

Scrimmage:  try a 4 goal scrimmage to promote attacking and shooting the ball
Set up a 20m x 20m grid with 4 goals in the middle of each side. Coach in one corner to serve balls after they go out or players score.
Move to a regular scrimmage when needed.
Use scrimmage to work on items that come up in games (like throw ins for example) and focus the scrimmage on this.



U10 & U13 boys practice - May 22

Just want to say that I was very impressed by the level of play I was seeing at practice last week from some of your teams!
I am working with the girls this week, so you are on your own and doing a fantastic job.  This week the focus is on shooting...however we are mid-way through the season and if there is something specific from your games that you need to work on now would be the time.  (Email me if you are struggling with something and want ideas on how to teach something etc...).

Warm up:  Quick Dribble grid 3-5 minutes then in that same grid move to passing...split groups into two teams each team with a ball.  Number the players on each team and then have them moving around the grid passing in number order, ie 1 to 2 passes to 3 to 4 to 1 to 2 etc...then have them go backwards 4 to 3 to 2 etc... working on cutting to the ball and calling with purpose (support, through etc...) also work on opening up to the field of play as you receive the pass so you know where your next pass is.  If they are really on top of it, play with only one ball and move so one team is defending...always working in number order if your team has the ball.  So everytime there is a turnover they must start the number order from whoever wins or has the ball if it is 3 they are looking for 4 etc...  (this is an excellent drill for many aspects of the game, you will likely find a number of teachable moments just from how play evolves.
Last part of warm up, in pairs, about 2 metres apart each with a ball.  One player is the server, the other player is the person, striking ball.  Aim to strike ball served/lobbed to partner back to partners hands.   (Optional agility component:  Player striking the ball jumps sideways over their ball before receiving next serve)....Person striking the ball, works 5 on each foot side of foot (then switch roles) then 5 on each foot working the laces....one touch back to partners hands (ball always in the air)...starting to prepare for shooting...hitting on the laces.

Agility:  Try just cones for agility this week...keep the session short but snappy.  You might try a line of cones (about 2feet apart) per pair of players (or per two pairs).  One player on each side of the cones one who is the leader and the other who is following trying to mimic follow exactly what the leader is doing for 30 seconds and then switch the leader and the follower.  Start side shuffle so they are facing each other and the leader is shuffling side to side as fast as possible moving to whichever cone but it needs to be a different cone each time.  Then go backwards and forwards.  Have them switch partners.  Remind them to have quick feet and not cross their feet when shuffling sideways.  Quick dynamic stretching focussing on quads, hamstrings and groins.

Skill focus shooting mechanics
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ac8r9XlSWo0&feature=relmfu
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3wi0tehvIw&feature=relmfu
Coaching points:
-planting foot pointing at the target
-planting foot next to ball if too far back, ball will go up because you will be forced to lean
-striking ball with inside laces, toe pointed down ankle locked
-knee over ball (of striking foot)
-shoulder over the ball (head down as striking)
-quick snap and follow through
-always strike a moving  ball

skill focus:  shooting
simple activity of two lines, each kid with a ball facing coach/team mate.  Pass to coach or team mate who lays off the ball to side for a shot
http://expertfootball.com/coaching/shooting.php
(first drill on page) - worry less about if they are shooting in or out of penalty area

can adapt this drill slightly and add a defender, where the coach/player who was initially receiving for layoff, now this player is the attacker (back to net), defender behind them, attacker receives pass and needs to turn and play a shot on goal (have defender play dummy to start and play tight...then move to live defender)

skill focus: shooting (good warm up for pre games too)
4 corner shooting drill
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuz6JGaEYtY&feature=related

skill focus:  shooting under pressure
2v2 game
http://www.bytesizecoaching.com/secure/games/64_2_by_4_shooting.php

Scrimmage:  4 goal scrimmage to promote attacking and shooting the ball

Set up a 20m x 20m grid with 4 goals in the middle of each side. Select two teams consisting of equal numbers. Call out 2 or 3 players from each team to run onto the field and play against each other and try and score in any one of the four goals until the coach says stop. At which time both groups return to their place behind the goal line and the coach calls another group to play. If the ball goes out of play the game can be restarted with a “kick-in” or the coach may serve in a new ball. Progressions could involve assigning 2 nets to each team to defend and 2 to attack.





U13 Girls practice - May 24

This week you will all run your own practices.  I am not providing a focus for this week as one coach expressed the need to work on some rule items and basic set pieces.  It being mid way through the season, it is a good time to work on any loose ends from games etc.  If you are unsure what to work on, continue working on fundamentals, you can never do too much of this.  There are a number of drills that we have not done from the previous three practice posts, you can always use these.  OR start looking at 1 v 1 situations both offensively and defensively...find a couple of links at bottom of page (Next weeks focus/theme will shooting and goal keeping.).

I will be available to help whomever may need it.  Be it feeding balls, demoing a skill, jumping in and playing etc...  If there is something specific that you want to work on and would like my help during this time please email me.

This does not mean go and play a game against another team for this time period.    

Here is the basic outline (if you haven't picked up on it).

Warm up - with ball
Agility of some kind
skill introduction drill
skill focus drill
skill focus drill (if time)
Inter-squad scrimmage


Some drill ideas for 1 v 1, 2 v 1 or team play below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eidEYh1uBs&feature=relmfu (1v1 attacking with goalie)
http://www.footy4kids.co.uk/soccer_coaching_passing%20practice.htm (second drill)
http://www.footy4kids.co.uk/soccer_coaching_passing%20practice.htm (coaching principles of play)

Sunday, May 13, 2012

U4/5 practice plan - week of May 15

This week you will run your own practices....start to finish with just your team.  I will be coming around and working with different groups.  The most difficult part will be the transitions between drills, make it fast or you'll loose them!  Here is a basic practice plan that you can use for both days. It's okay if you don't get through everything.  Remember to run/take your players around the boundaries of the area you are using.  Also I've been noticing that some of you haven't been cheering at the end...this is important, kids LOVE the cheer....I'd do it before you crack the snacks!  Also a couple of reminders:  parents/care givers are expected to be at the field with their child ready to participate, a gentle reminder to parents is okay.  If a child does not want to participate, that is OK...it is totally okay to sit and watch from the side, have a break etc...  Don't forget to give a water break especially if it's warmer out!

Warm up/Agility:  Freeze Tag
Set up a 20m x 20m grid. Players travel around the grid with a ball. Coach/parent tries to tag the players. When a player is tagged he/she must stand still with legs shoulder width apart and pick up ball. Players are unfrozen when a teammate can dribble a ball through their legs.
Variations
Easier (U4): Start with no balls, players hold hands out to side - player freed by going under an arm – progress to under legs Harder (U6): Have players replace coach(es) as taggers.
Harder (U6): Players must perform 2 juggles to unfreeze.

Ball Literacy: Enchanted Forest
Set up a 20m x 20m grid. Scatter cones around grid as “spooky trees”. Other obstacles such as rings, hurdles or larger cones can be used as different challenges. Start by having parent lead player with a ball through the forest avoiding the spooky trees. Players can pick up ball and toss it over the taller spooky trees.
Alternatives
Easier –First explore the forest with no balls. Harder – Have players travel from one end of the forest on their own to rescue mom or dad, who are stuck on the other side. Harder – Have parent chase children through the forest. Switch roles.

Ball Literacy - King/Queen of the Ring

Players have a ball each. Players must keep ball within a defined area . Players are encouraged to kick other balls out of area. When a player has their ball kicked out of the grid, they must leave the grid and practice a skill (3 toe taps etc) and then they should return to grid.  (you will need parents to help guide their kids for this)

Alternatives Easier – Parent and child can play keep away in pairs. Parent letting child
enjoy success


Ball Literacy - Nuts and Squirrels

Teams are divided into 3/4 groups - each group is given a different colored pinni. All the balls positioned in middle square. On coaches command 1 player from each group collects a ball (nut) from the middle. Player dribbles ball back to their triangle (tree) – next player can go when the ball is stopped in the triangle. When the coach stops the game, the team with the most balls (nuts) in their triangle wins the game.
Alternatives
Easier – Instead of dribbling players use hands. Harder – One player from each group is allowed to steal a ball from the other team’s triangle.
You can also get them to pass it back to their team mate/parent



Numbers Games – 2 Goals
Set up a small grid, depending on number of players. Separate players into 2 teams as shown below. Number players 1,2,3,4,5 etc. Call out a number. That numbered player on each team must race around the cones into the field where a ball is placed. Players must attempt to score on their opponent’s goal while defending their own. Encourage celebrations after a goal!
Alternatives
Easier: have them just run it as a race with a ball in their hand and have them throw the ball in goal Easier (U4): Put two balls so each can score goals Harder (U6) – Increase number of players to 2 or 3 to encourage teamwork (grid size may need to increase to accommodate this.)  This may roll right into your small field scrimmage.

Scrimmage: 3 v 3, small field