Football/Soccer Session (Beginner): Session 3 - Control

Dribbling technical (10 mins)

Set-up -

Players in groups of 3 dribbling along the "corridor" and having to dribble to 2 sides of the corridor whilst keeping ball under control. Players then dribble along the outside of the corridor back to start position.

Make it easier:

• Begin with teaching the players the techniques on the spot. When they are comfortable with these then get them to do the skills

Make it more challenging:

• Players perform different skills along with the corridor (players or coaches' choice) and also perform a different skill on their way back to start point.
• Groups of players start at opposite ends of the corridor and dribble at the same time to cause interference.

Key Coaching Points

Keep the ball moving

• Encourage players to not let the ball stop and go as fast as they can whilst demonstrating the correct technique to dribble.

  
  Individual skills/tricks
  
  

• Players should be confident enough to attempt different skills and tricks whilst expressing themselves.

  
  Ball under control & lots of touches
  
  

• Keep the ball close to your feet in order to change speed and direction quickly and under control.

1st touch from the air (10 mins)

PURPOSE - 

To develop the technique of aerial control.

ORGANIZATION - 

Set up mini 2-yard goals around the area you are working in. Put the group into pairs, one ball per pair. One partner throws the ball up in the air and the teammate must control the ball in the direction of the nearest goal and then dribble through the goal. Rotate after each turn, so that both partners practice their control. Progress this exercise by asking players to perform ‘a move’ e.g.‘Zidane turn’ or ‘Maradona’ as they move through the goal.

COACHING POINTS - 

Variation: Develop better all-round players with more complete control by insisting on the right foot, left foot, and different body parts all being used. Ask the players to control the ball at an angle towards the goal. Teach your players to develop their first touch through “practice-practice-practice”.