Football/Soccer Session (Beginner): U8 Ball control

Activity 1 (15 mins)

4 Surfaces:

Each player has a ball. Have the players try to use the 4 surfaces of the foot in 1 fluid motion in this order: Outside, Inside, Laces and Bottom, Transfer the ball from the right to left foot after they stop the ball with the bottom (sole of the shoe) When the players display proficiency, challenge them to do it faster and in a smaller space.

The sequence is:

Outside of the foot touch - Inside of the foot touch - Laces (push) - Stop with bottom of the foot and Change foot

Coaching Points/Questions:

What surfaces of the foot are the players using?

What surface is the most difficult for the players to use?

Why would you ask them to “Talk to your feet”?

Player Challenges:

Am I keeping the ball close to my feet?

Am I looking up or at my feet?

Small Sided (15 mins)

2v1 to Goal:

Coach sets up a 15Wx20L yard grid. Coach has all the soccer balls on the sideline. Coach divides the players into 3 groups; 2 attacking groups and 1 defending. The coach passes a soccer ball to one of the lines. The first player in each of the 3 lines enters the field. (2v1). The 2 attackers must enter the zone before shooting at goal.

If the attackers score: 1 point.

If the defender steals the ball and scores: 5 points.

Coaching Points/Questions:

Why do they try to beat the defender by themselves?

When should they pass the soccer ball?

Player Challenges:

Am I trying to score by myself?

Sometimes, do I give the ball to my teammate so he/she can score?

Have I shot yet?

5v5 game (15 mins)

Game 5v5