Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Passing - Square

Description

Focus: Receiving & Passing

Timeframe: This programme will take a considerable number of weeks to achieve, so don't rush it. Each progression is a significant jump in technical ability

Time - 7-10 mins

Set up

• As shown, c5-7m apart (adjust distance depending on ability - start big and make smaller)
• Groups of 5 (min)
• Divide the group into higher and lower abilities if needs be (for lower ability, just pass and follow the pass, back and forth)

• Players pass and follow the pass, then join the back of the next queue
• N.B. This is very effective, but boring so don't do more than 7-10 mins per session MAX!!! The kids will switch off very quickly 

Progressions (in order)

• Start by minimising the number of touches on the ball
• For lower abilities - focus on what part of the foot the player is using (use instep - positive reinforcement!)
• For comfortable players - alternate how they receive the ball: foot closest to the ball, then pass off the other foot; or foot furthest away form the ball then pass off the other foot
• Change direction
• 1:2 to feet
• 1:2 into space

Coaching Points - Receiving

• Agility - Stay on your toes
• Receiving -  Instep > or 'Toes to Sky', 'open your body' up in the direction the pass is going
• Eye contact - ensure good eye contact with the player passing the ball

Coaching Points - Passing 

• Give 1 point for each
• Eye contact- ensure good eye contact with the player receiving the ball
• Technique - Open your foot out and use the instep

Think STEP

• Space - do you need to make it larger (easier) or smaller (more challenging)
• Task - can you change the task or challenge?
• Equipment - can you add target areas for example?
• Players - can you increase/decrease the number of players?