Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): 1-3-2-2 Training for U12 Players

1 v 1 with perimeter support

Activity 1- In this 1 v 1 configuration, the two players engaged in the 1 v 1 dual are allowed to use any of the perimeter neutral players for support. There are no goalkeepers, only the use of mini-goals. The grid is a 20 x 40 yard space. Each round is started by the attacking player receiving a ball from different points of the grid. First round, the player receives the ball from the player behind him, second round, the player receives the ball from a side player, and last round, the player receives it from the player in front of him / her. This is to replicate real soccer scenarios where a player may receive the ball from a variety of directions. When the ball goes out of bounds or if a goal is scored, the attacking player resets for the next pass in. Once all passes have been made (behind, side, and in front), the defending player now becomes the attacker. When that player has received balls from the noted locations, a fresh set of players enter. The next phase of this activity will now allow the neutral players to use each other, but ultimately, it must be played to the player within the grid who is looking to score.

Restrictions on number of touches from the perimeter players may be implemented.

The perimeter players create a depth of support configurated in a diamond and broken down even further into triangles.

Shadow Training for the 1-3-2-2

Shadow Training- Play begins with distribution from the goalkeeper. The backs initially are asked to interplay which includes playing the ball back to the goalkeeper. While this takes place, the two midfielders and 2 forwards move so as to create a diamond. One of the forwards "shows" so as to create the top of the diamond, with the other playing a bit higher but in a position to potentially receive the ball. Once the movement is correctly flowing relative to the ball movement, the backs are now asked to play within the diamond that has been created. The group moves up field looking to ultimately play it to another goalkeeper. Once he receives the ball, that 'keeper distributes back to the 'keeper in goal and the activity resumes.

Match Conditions

It's time to play! On a 50 x 80 yard field, players are allowed to play the game while making the effort to execute the movements rehearsed / practiced in the preceding activities.