Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Movement off the ball - U12

Technical (15 mins)

Set up

12 players

Set up a 40m X 30m pitch (used throughout session) and add 14 cones around the inside of the pitch (players plus number of intended balls used). Start with 1 ball but have a few more handy for progression.

Outline

12 players on pitch on a cone each leaving 2 spare cones. Initially the coach gives a player a ball, who then looks to pass to another player and run to the empty cone. Pass and move. Player receiving the ball then passes to another player (looking for the ball), then moves to another empty cone. After a couple of minutes of the players getting used to the rules, the coach can add another ball into play for more touches. A challenge for the player may include a third ball (for this sized group).

Key Factors

Players should look to pass and be aware of the empty cone around them before calling for the call in order to find space to receive the ball again.

Emphasis on the following passing mechanics

Look at target

Eye on ball

Angle of approach

Non-kicking foot alongside ball in a comfortable position

Strike Centre of ball with inside / outside of foot (Identified area of the ball)

Firm ankle

Follow through towards target

SSD

Pitch

Set up a 40m X 30m pitch (used throughout session)

Outline

Pitch split into 3 sections by cones. 1 Gk, 1 defenders, 3 midfielders, 1 strikers. Only way player can go into other zone is to pass the ball into that zone. Cannot bypass the middle zone. Creating the overload in final 3rd and encouraging success for attackers. Focus on the movement of players who are not on the ball. Used the same amount of defenders as attackers to encourage the attackers to move and try and lose the defender. Once ball is lost the player who has changed zones must return to their original zone.

Key Points

Movement of the players when they are not on the ball. Encourage to pass the ball to feet.