Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Switching Play (Making the Pitch Wide)

Skill Practice # 1

Skill Practice 15 Minutes 

Key Coaching Messages - Technical Information (The

Mechanics)

Set-Up: 40 x 30 Box extra boxes as needed

Set Up: Two Variations based on odd and even numbers

1.     Players work with one ball per group.

2.     Players will work the ball around the square passing or chipping the ball to the player in the next corner or side. I like for the two groups to pass in opposite directions to force them to be more aware (Head Up)

3.     Players on the outside will assume a body open stance and receive to pass to next player looking to use entire area.

4.     Have them change directions after 7 minutes.

Challenge: Have the player try to get the ball out from under their feet with their first touch to allow pass with second touch.

Small Sided Game

Game: 30 minutes

6 + GK v 4 Defending

Set-up: Half-size field with two gates at midfield. Balls placed at convenient restart locations. 

1.     The build-up team will attempt to score the ball through the gates at midfield by playing around the press. Make the Pitch wide and maintain width!

2.     The defending team will attempt to win possession and dribble the ball and score in the goal.

3.     The ball will initially be played from a goal kick. Otherwise the ball can be played in via throw-in or coach pass into play.

4. Focus on making the pitch as wide as possible to stretch the defense.

Adaptations: Based on Observation

1.     Cone goals or small nets may be used.

2.     You can vary the number of players on each side to replicate the build-up in your game format (7 v 7 or 9 v 9 etc.)

3.     You can move the target cones or have extra players act as passing targets for the buildup team.

Adjust number based on the player # available.