coach’s handbook micro- · pdf file© 2008 eusa – all rights reserved table of...

Coach’s Handbook Micro-Soccer

© 2008 EUSA – All Rights Reserved

Table of Contents Welcome to Edison United Soccer Association Section 1 – General What is a Good Coach Theory of Coaching Dealing with Parents Expectations of a Coach Coaching Requirements Section 2 – Coaching the Players Micro-Soccer Skill Development Goals Kindergarten

1st Grade 2nd Grade 3rd Grade


Section 3 – Learning by Playing Recommended Training Games Sample Practice Sessions Blank Training Template Section 4 – Resources Useful Websites Soccer Glossary Section 5 – Forms Blank Training Template Medical Injury Form


Welcome to Edison United Soccer Association (EUSA) We would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to the Edison United Soccer Association family. EUSA began in 1974 with one goal, to provide access to soccer to the youth of Edison and her surrounding communities. In 35 years of play, EUSA has gone from a 100 player club to coaching over 3,200 players a year. The guiding philosophy at Edison United Soccer Association (EUSA) is simple – provide a fun, learning atmosphere where players feel encouraged and supported to challenge and improve their soccer skills. We provide a positive environment for our players where they can hone their soccer skills while learning good sportsmanship and fair play. We regard our coaches as one of our most valuable resources. Each youth soccer coach enjoys a rare privilege – becoming a mentor to a team of kids who are looking to have fun. EUSA needs all of its member coaches to be their BEST – as leaders, teachers, and friends to every player. The EUSA’s Coach’s Handbook is designed to assist you – the coach – in creating an environment in which each child can reach his/her potential as a soccer player and as a child. You are an assistant to the GAME in teaching players and an assistant to players in their understanding of the GAME. This handbook provides the support that you, the coach, need to best accomplish these goals. The information contained within this handbook is to be used in tandem to the training received in your F license coursework.


The Coach’s Handbook is broken into several sections to make your job easier. Section 1 deals with general information on what to expect as a coach from your players and your parents. It also outlines what EUSA expects from you. Section 2 deals with the training requirements for each age group. Section 3 outlines various training games and samples of practice agendas. Section 4 provides you with useful resources to assist you in your job as a coach. Section 5 contains various forms you may need. Good luck with your Team this year! If you need help, contact us on our website at http://www.edisonunitedsoccer.com or by email to [email protected] .


Section 1 -

General


What is a Good Coach? A good coach is someone who knows that winning is nice, but it’s not everything. A good coach is someone who focuses on the continual development of his/her players while also improving his/her own skills. There are ten characteristics of a good coach: 1) Patience – This is probably the most important characteristic. Let’s face it, active girls and boys require a lot of attention. And some days, it feels like you are trying to herd cats. A good coach is one who can work with each child for who they are and doesn’t expect perfect angels on the field. 2) Tolerance – This goes hand-in-hand with patience. Kids are going to be rowdy, moody or “just not into it.” Tolerance helps to refocus kids and get them playing. 3) Humor – This is one of the greatest tools a coach can possess. By being able to laugh with your kids, play games, and get “silly”; the kids will see you as someone who truly wants to be there with them and respond in kind. 4) Acceptance – Each child is unique. Each one has varied potential and skill levels. A good coach is one who recognizes each child as an individual and encourages that child to perform at his/her best level. Perfection is not required! 5) Motivation – Soccer can be viewed as kids kicking a ball across the field; or, it can be viewed as an opportunity for growth. The true test lies in sparking a child’s interest to learn and grow and keeping that spark alive each season. 6) Respect – At so many games, coaches and parents forget that this is youth soccer and not the World Cup. It is NEVER okay to berate or belittle a player for making a “mistake”. Soccer is a dynamic game and mistakes


allow for future teaching & learning opportunities. A good coach never singles out a child for making a mistake and he/she does not allow parents or the other team members to do so either. 7) Sportsmanship – The definition of sportsmanship is to teach kids to work together as a team in order to achieve a common goal. It also means teaching kids to respect other players as well as each other. Insults are not tolerated. Mistakes are team mistakes and they are used as teaching tools for the next game. 8) Ability to Teach – You would think this would be easy, right? Wrong. How many times has a parent signed up a child for a sport, only to have a well-intentioned parent decide to coach? He/She may not know the sport. He/She may not relate well to his/her players. There is a huge difference between the team whose members do what is yelled at them; and the team whose members actually understand what to do and why. A good coach teaches his/her players fundamentals, explains concepts and enables his/her players to think logically when making a play. A good coach is always learning and seeking training information to better themselves and their team. 9) Love of Kids – Kids have an energy quality that makes every practice and every game a new experience for coaches and parents alike. Without their vision and energy, sports would be dull and unappreciated. They offer a day-to-day challenge for coaches that, if viewed with humor, can be contagious and motivational. 10) Love of the Game – Coaches must love their sport, and, more importantly, must show their players enthusiasm for every aspect of the game. This includes techniques and tactics. The love of the game must also show players the love of fair play, respect for the opponents, officials and spectators, and positive reinforcement for teammates. Only a good coach who loves the game can provide the correct aspects involved in the winning and losing of competition.


Theory of Coaching

There are four fundamental “truths” about children and sports that have been identified by researchers:

♦ Fun is pivotal. If it’s not fun, kids won’t play. ♦ Skill development is a crucial aspect of fun. It is more important than

winning even among the best athletes. ♦ Free play is important for them to explore and find their strengths.

The worst thing we can do as coaches is force them to play positions early on. This restricts their growth development as it can take up to a year to unlearn habits.

♦ The most rewarding challenges of sports are those that lead to self-knowledge. Coaches need to incorporate as much decision making into their practices as possible.

Internal rewards (self-knowledge that grows out of self-competition) are more important in creating lifetime athletes than are external rewards (victory or attention from others). Kids can learn a great deal about themselves through the game. This is why we as coaches need to do activities that enhance the imagination.

Player Development “The game is already inside each child.” We, as coaches, are responsible for creating an environment in which the game can manifest. Our practices and games must meet the specific needs of each age group so they can build upon their skills. Our games and practices should focus on:

♦ Players being exposed to playing all positions. ♦ Every player has a ball for practice. ♦ Activities designed to maximize the number of touches by each player

at practice.


♦ Rules modified for players according to their age group characteristics.

♦ Activities designed to promote thinking, not doing drills. ♦ De-emphasize winning/losing while emphasizing specific skills.

Role of the Coach The coach’s main goal is one of facilitating a positive learning environment for each player to improve their soccer skills. The main objectives are:

♦ Set up the environment and conditions for learning. ♦ Facilitate the learning process. ♦ Make sure the learning environment is fun. ♦ Ensure players are receiving positive feedback from the coach. ♦ Coach must be enthusiastic about what he/she is doing. ♦ Activities need to be geared towards the players achieving success,

with success measured by fun.

Qualification of the Coach To ensure the safety of our players, we require all coaches to undergo a criminal background check. Coaches for the 2nd Grade Division forward are expected to have a completed “F” License.


Dealing with Parents

Coaching is exciting and rewarding, but occasionally, you may experience some difficulties with parents. You will face a myriad of challenges from wanting their child to play more, different positions, special requests, and questioning your judgment as a coach. Whatever the issue, most parents are simply looking out for the interest of their child often at your expense. Don’t get discouraged. There are several things you can do to minimize these concerns. The biggest thing is communication. Over-communicate to your parents. We are all busy, especially if we have multiple children playing. Set up a Parent Meeting before the season begins and let your parents know what you expect from them, what they can expect from you and what they should expect for their child. Communicate practice dates (and cancellations), game dates and times. Let them know you are there for their child and address their concerns when they are raised. Express appreciation for their interest and concern. Listen to their ideas and feelings. Encourage parent involvement. No coach can please everyone. Know the EUSA and game rules. Be prepared to abide by them and explain them to the parents. Be consistent. Handle any confrontation in a one-on-one, not a crowd situation. Try not to get defensive. Be fair. If you treat all players equally and with respect, you will gain their respect and that of their parents. Remember, you will be dealing with all types of children and their parents from a multitude of backgrounds and ideals. The challenge for you as a coach is to address these differences in a positive manner so that the season will be enjoyable for everyone involved.


Expectation of the Coach Welcome to your Team! There are several expectations EUSA has of you as the coach in addition to coaching your players.

♦ Attend the EUSA Pre-Season Coaches’ Meeting. This meeting will outline expectations for the season and important target dates.

♦ Pick up and distribute your Team’s uniforms. ♦ Maintain an attendance roster. ♦ Hold a Parent’s Meeting prior to the first game/practice. ♦ Communicate with your Division Director / VP and Parents regularly. ♦ Arrive 10-15 minutes before your Team on game days. ♦ Properly care for and maintain all club gear and return it at the end of

the season.

Micro-Soccer Coaching Requirements Kindergarten 1st Grade 2nd Grade 3rd Grade

Age Group: 4 – 6 yr olds 6 – 7 yr olds 7 – 8 yr olds 8 – 9 yr olds Division: U6

U7 U8 U9

Ball Size 3

3 3 3

Sexes: Girls & Boys Mixed Girls & Boys Mixed Teams Segregated by Sexes Teams Segregated by Sexes

Team Distribution:

By Schools By Schools By Coach’s School By Coach’s School

Team Size: Max 40

Max 40 Max 7 Max 12

Skill Priorities: *Dribble with all sides of both feet *Dribble out of trouble *Dribble past someone *Soft first touch

*Dribble with all sides of both feet *Dribble out of trouble *Dribble past someone *Soft first touch *Ability to change direction with ball *Introduce space *Introduce passing

*Dribble out of trouble *Dribble past someone *Shielding *Soft first touch *Ability to change direction with ball *Introduce proper shooting technique *Introduce passing

*Dribble out of trouble *Dribble past someone *Shielding *Soft first touch *Ability to change direction with ball *Introduce proper shooting technique *Introduce passing *Introduce positions

F License: Recommended – pref F licen Recommended – pref F licensed Mandatory Mandatory Background

Check:

Mandatory

Mandatory

Mandatory

Mandatory # Mandatory

Weekly Practices:

0

0

1

1

Kindergarten 1st Grade 2nd Grade 3rd Grade

Game Day Procedure:

45 min training w/ Trainers 40 min “Games” 5x5 max between own team members

45 min training w/ Trainers 40 min “Games” 5x5 max between own team members

45 min training w/ Trainers 40 min Game – 2/20min halves 7x7 max against opposing team

Uniforms: Ordered by EUSA Handed out at Parents’ Meeting by Coach

Ordered by EUSA Handed out at Parents’ Meeting by Coach

Ordered by EUSA Handed out by Coach

Ordered by EUSA Handed out by Coach

Coaches Meeting:

Mandatory Mandatory Mandatory Mandatory

Parents’ Meeting:

Mandatory

Mandatory Recommended Recommended

Pinnies: Handed out by EUSA to Coaches – expected back at end of Season

Handed out by EUSA to Coaches – expected back at end of Season



First Aid Kits: Handed out by EUSA to Coaches

Handed out by EUSA to Coaches Handed out by EUSA to Coaches

Handed out by EUSA to Coaches

Game Schedules:

Developed by EUSA see website

Developed by EUSA see website Developed by EUSA see website

Developed by EUSA see website

Game Field: Spencer Rockman Complex

Spencer Rockman Complex Spencer Rockman Complex Martin Luther King

Field Size: 20x30 Small sided goals

20x30 Small sided goals

40x25 Small sided goals

70x50 Mid Size Goals

Referees: No No No – Coaches call game Yes – Paid by Coaches

Attendance Records:

Yes – turned in to Division Directors at Season end





Trophies: EUSA orders – to be distributed at year end party by coaches

EUSA orders – to be distributed at year end party by coaches



Pizza Party: EUSA coordinates as one group

EUSA coordinates as one group Coaches Schedule for each team – funds provided by EUSA

Coaches Schedule for each team – funds provided by EUSA

Coaches Clinics:

Recommended Recommended Recommended Recommended

Snack Bar: 2 parents from each Team during the 45 min practice

session

2 parents from each Team during the 45 min practice session

1 parent from each Team during the 45 min practice

session

N/A

Game Day Procedure:

45 min training w/ Trainers 40 min “Games” 5v5 max between own team members Lots of water breaks (every 10 minutes)

45 min training w/ Trainers 40 min “Games” 5v5 max between own team members Lots of water breaks (every 10 minutes)

45 min training w/ Trainers 40 min Game – 4/10 min quarters- 5v5 max against opposing team

4 / 15 minute quarters. 7v7 max

Game Starts: Drop Ball Kick Off Kick Off Kick Off Out of Bounds: Drop Ball Throw in Throw In, Corner Kicks Throw In, Corner Kicks

Heading: No No No No


Section 2 -

Coaching the Players


Kindergarten Division Each age group has specific characteristics, expectations and coaching rationale. If you, as a coach, understand these, practices and games will become more fun as you begin to identify and notice player milestones. Characteristics of 4, 5 & 6 Year Olds In this age group, we play 3v3 with a max of 5v5 with no goal keepers. They play against their own teammates. Players exhibit the following:

♦ Short attention spans (10 minutes max) ♦ Can attend to only one problem at a time ♦ May understand simple rules that are explained briefly and

demonstrated ♦ May or may not understand or remember what lines mean on the field,

what team they are on, what goal they are going for. You need to be patient and laugh with them as they get “lost” on the field.

♦ Easily bruised psychologically. Give them praise often. Give them “hints” – don’t single out any child for negatives.

♦ Need generous praise and to play without pressure. Winning should not be a focus – teamwork and trying your best should be.

♦ Prefer “parallel play” – will play on a team, but will not really engage with their teammates. Therefore a 3v3 game is really a 1 against 5 game because they all want the ball at the same time.

♦ Very individually oriented – me, mine, my ♦ Constantly in motion, but, with no sense of pace. They will chase

something until they drop. They are easily fatigued but recover rapidly. Pay attention to breaks.

♦ Development for boys and girls are quite similar. ♦ Physical coordination is limited. Eye-hand and eye-foot coordination

is not developed. Need to explore qualities of a rolling ball.


♦ Love to run, jump, roll, hop etc. ♦ Catching or throwing skills not developed. ♦ Can balance on their “good” foot

Involving the Parents It is very important that coaches get the parents involved in this age group. For most, it is the first time they are involved in sports. Not only are they a major resource for you, but these players still view their parents as the most significant persons in their lives. Things You Can Expect As coaches of these young players, there are things we know are going to happen during practice and games. By knowing what to expect, we will be more effective in dealing with the hundreds of situations that will come up. This will help you stay relaxed, and in turn, allow you to enjoy the unpredictable nature of working with these kids. Here are some of the things you can expect:

♦ Most players cry immediately when something is hurt. Some cry even when something is not hurt.

♦ No matter how loud we shout, or how much we “practice” it, they cannot or will not pass the ball.

♦ Somebody will come off the field in need of a toilet. Somebody will stay on the field in need of a toilet.

♦ Twenty seconds after the start of a game, every player will be within 5 yards of the ball.

♦ Several players will slap at the ball with their hands or pick it up. Several parents will yell at them not to do that.

♦ A model rocket that is launched from a nearby field will get 99% of the players’ attention. By all means, stop whatever you are doing and go watch for a couple of minutes.

♦ During a season, you will end up tying at least 100-200 shoe laces. ♦ They will do something that is absolutely hysterical. Make sure that

you laugh!


Coaching Rationale It is important to understand that any player coming to any sport prior to the age of 6 years old, in general, does not do so by their own choice. As a result, you the Coach need to give them something to get excited about. Also, at this age, learning to play soccer is secondary to most other things in their lives. So with the above assumptions, let’s take a look at some things you can do to energize them and hopefully get them to the point where they want to come back and play again next season.

♦ Each session should be geared around touching the ball as many times as possible. Involve the ball in as many activities as possible. Basic movements such as running, skipping, hopping etc need to be emphasized. If these can be done while kicking, catching, rolling or dribbling a ball, all the better.

♦ Have as many different kinds of activities ready as you can get into one hour. Emphasis needs to be placed on what is FUN!

♦ Every player should bring his/her own #3 size ball. ♦ Remember, although they may have very similar birth dates, their

physical and/or mental maturity varies as much as 36 months. Activities need to accommodate these individual differences whenever possible.

♦ Team play and passing is an alien concept to these players. They know that if they pass the ball, they may never get it back. In fact, they often will steal it from their own teammates. Do not get uptight if they do not pass, let them dribble to their hearts content.

♦ Plan for water breaks at least every 8-10 minutes lasting about 90 seconds, especially in warmer weather. Their “cooling system” is not as efficient as in older players.


1st Grade Division Each age group has specific characteristics, expectations and coaching rationale. If you, as a coach, understand these, practices and games will become more fun as you begin to identify and notice player milestones. Characteristics of 6 & 7 Year Olds In this age group, we play 3v3 with a max of 5v5 with no goal keepers. They play against their own teammates. Players exhibit the following:

♦ Attention span is a bit longer than kindergarten, but still not at competitive level.

♦ Inclined towards small group activities. ♦ Always in motion: scratching; blinking; jerking; rocking… ♦ Easily bruised psychologically. They will remember negative

comments for a long time. Shout praise. Give “hints”. ♦ They want everybody to like them. ♦ Developing physical confidence. (Most are able to ride a two wheeler) ♦ Starting to imitate older players or sports heroes. Want the same

“gear” as them. ♦ Lack sense of pace. They go flat out until they drop. ♦ Skeletal system growing rapidly. Often results in apparent lack of

coordination. ♦ Cardiovascular and temperature regulation system is not developed.

Their heart rate peaks quickly and they overheat quickly. Make sure they get plenty of water breaks.

♦ Limited understanding with personal evaluation. “If they try hard, they performed well” regardless of the actual performance. Thus, they need to be encouraged constantly, and asked, “Now, can you do this?”


♦ Better at recognizing when the ball is out of play and remembering what goal they are going for. But in the heat of battle, they will sometimes still forget. They still find it difficult to really be aware of more than one thing at a time.

Involving the Parents It is very important that coaches get the parents involved in this age group. For most, it is the first time they are involved in sports. Not only are they a major resource for you, but these players still view their parents as the most significant persons in their lives. Things You Can Expect The 6, 7 & 8 years old players are a bit more compliant than their kindergarten counterparts. They will be able to follow 2 or 3 step instructions and are starting to have a good understanding about what it means to play a “game.” They are also starting to cooperate more with their teammates. In fact, they now will recognize that the even have teammates by the fact that they occasionally, and I mean occasionally, will pass the ball to a teammate, on purpose. Often, they will repeat the phrase “I can’t do that”, but, will quickly run to you to show you that they can, even when they only think that they can. Some of the things you can expect to happen during a season with this age group are:

♦ There will be at least 200-300 falls, but now they will usually pick themselves back up.

♦ The puddle in front of the goal is still too tempting to resist. So is every other puddle on the field.

♦ Keep a spare pump in your bag, as the players usually do not realize that their ball is flat until they try to kick it, or the coach tells them that it is flat.

♦ Some of the girls are a lot tougher than the boys.


♦ They will still want to wear a pinnie, even when the color is identical to their shirt.

♦ It will be impossible to remember who is whose best friend as you try to make up teams.

♦ School conflicts will come up. Please, let them go (they must face their teachers five days a week).

♦ They will wear their uniform to bed. Coaching Rationale Although they’ve probably played one or two seasons by this time, their development is not much further than kindergarten. You can begin to add little bits to the program, but overall, coaching strategy will remain the same.

♦ Each session should be geared around touching the ball as many times as possible. Involve the ball in as many activities as possible. Basic movements such as running, skipping, hopping etc need to be emphasized. If these can be done while kicking, catching, rolling or dribbling a ball, all the better.

♦ Have as many different kinds of activities ready as you can get into one hour. Emphasis needs to be placed on what is FUN!

♦ Every player should bring his/her own #3 size ball. ♦ Remember, although they may have very similar birth dates, their

physical and/or mental maturity varies as much as 36 months. Activities need to accommodate these individual differences whenever possible.

♦ Team play and passing is an alien concept to these players. They know that if they pass the ball, they may never get it back. In fact, they often will steal it from their own teammates. Do not get uptight if they do not pass, let them dribble to their hearts content.

♦ Plan for water breaks at least every 8-10 minutes lasting about 90 seconds, especially in warmer weather. Their “cooling system” is not as efficient as in older players.


2nd Grade Division Each age group has specific characteristics, expectations and coaching rationale. If you, as a coach, understand these, practices and games will become more fun as you begin to identify and notice player milestones. Characteristics of 7 & 8 Year Olds In this age group, we play 6v6 with no goal keepers. They play against opposing teams and are separated by male/female teams. Overall characteristics are the same as for 1st grade.

♦ Attention span is a bit longer than 1st grade, but still not at competitive level.

♦ Inclined towards small group activities. ♦ Always in motion: scratching; blinking; jerking; rocking… ♦ Easily bruised psychologically. They will remember negative

comments for a long time. Shout praise. Give “hints”. ♦ They want everybody to like them. ♦ Developing physical confidence. (Most are able to ride a two wheeler) ♦ Starting to imitate older players or sports heroes. Want the same

“gear” as them. ♦ Lack sense of pace. They go flat out until they drop. ♦ Skeletal system growing rapidly. Often results in apparent lack of

coordination. ♦ Cardiovascular and temperature regulation system is not developed.

Their heart rate peaks quickly and they overheat quickly. Make sure they get plenty of water breaks.

♦ Limited understanding with personal evaluation. “If they try hard, they performed well” regardless of the actual performance. Thus, they need to be encouraged constantly, and asked, “Now, can you do this?”


♦ Better at recognizing when the ball is out of play and remembering what goal they are going for. But in the heat of battle, they will sometimes still forget. They still find it difficult to really be aware of more than one thing at a time.

Involving the Parents It is very important that coaches get the parents involved in this age group. For most, it is the first time they are involved in sports. Not only are they a major resource for you, but these players still view their parents as the most significant persons in their lives. Things You Can Expect The 6, 7 & 8 years old players are a bit more compliant than their kindergarten counterparts. They will be able to follow 2 or 3 step instructions and are starting to have a good understanding about what it means to play a “game.” They are also starting to cooperate more with their teammates. In fact, they now will recognize that the even have teammates by the fact that they occasionally, and I mean occasionally, will pass the ball to a teammate, on purpose. Often, they will repeat the phrase “I can’t do that”, but, will quickly run to you to show you that they can, even when they only think that they can. Some of the things you can expect to happen during a season with this age group are:

♦ There will be at least 200-300 falls, but now they will usually pick themselves back up.

♦ The puddle in front of the goal is still too tempting to resist. So is every other puddle on the field.

♦ Keep a spare pump in your bag, as the players usually do not realize that their ball is flat until they try to kick it, or the coach tells them that it is flat.

♦ Some of the girls are a lot tougher than the boys.


♦ They will still want to wear a pinnie, even when the color is identical to their shirt.

♦ It will be impossible to remember who is whose best friend as you try to make up teams.

♦ School conflicts will come up. Please, let them go (they must face their teachers five days a week).

♦ They will wear their uniform to bed. Coaching Rationale Although some of these players have had four seasons of play and touched the ball a few thousand times in their lives, they are not ready for the mental demands of tactical team soccer. It is true that they have a good idea of the game, but the emphasis still needs to be placed on the individual’s ability to control the ball with his/her body. They are still there to have fun, and because some of the players may be brand new to the sport, it is imperative that activities are geared towards individual success and participation. Some of the things you as a coach should consider are:

♦ Small-sided soccer is the best option for these players. Not only with they get more touches on the ball, but also, it is an easier game to understand.

♦ Because of the rapid growth spurts during this age, players will go through times when they seem to have lost control of their body. What they could easily do 2 weeks ago now seems unattainable. Be patient.

♦ Passing is not an important part of their game, no matter how much anybody yells at them to do otherwise. It is much more fun to dribble and shoot. Let them.

♦ Training one or twice a week is plenty and should not last longer than 1 ¼ hours.

♦ Each player should bring his/her own #3 size ball to training. Learning how to control it should be the main objective. They need to touch it, as many times as possible during fun activities to engage them.


♦ Challenge them to get better by practicing on their own. There is no rule which states that they can’t learn by themselves, no matter how important we think we are.

♦ Incidental things are important. They are forming the habits that will impact their future participation. Ask them to take care of their equipment (water bottle included), cooperate, listen, behave and try hard. Realize, however, that they often forget and will need to be reminded often.

♦ Ask them to work with others to solve a particular challenge. Start them with just one partner and work from there.


3rd Grade Division Each age group has specific characteristics, expectations and coaching rationale. If you, as a coach, understand these, practices and games will become more fun as you begin to identify and notice player milestones. Characteristics of 8 & 9 Year Olds In this age group, we play 8v8 with a goal keeper. They play against opposing teams and are separated by male/female teams. Here is where we start to see some significant changes in their ability to play the game.

♦ Gross and small motor skills are becoming more refined. Boys and girls begin to develop separately.

♦ Ability to stay on task is lengthened. They have the ability to sequence thought and actions.

♦ Greater diversity in playing ability and physical maturity. ♦ Skills are emerging. Becoming more predictable and recognizable. ♦ Some children begin moving from concrete thinking to abstract

thinking. ♦ Able to pace themselves, to plan ahead. ♦ Increased self-responsibility. They remember to bring their own

equipment. ♦ Starting to recognize basic tactical concepts, but not exactly sure why

certain decisions are better. ♦ Repetition of technique is very important, but it must be dynamic, not

static. ♦ Continued positive reinforcement needed. ♦ Explanations must be brief, concise, and mention “why”. ♦ Becoming more “serious”. Openly, intensively competitive, without

intention of fouling.


♦ Still mostly intrinsically motivated. Peer pressure starting to be a factor.

♦ Adult outside of the family may take on added significance. ♦ Prefer identification with a team. Like to have good uniforms,

equipment, and balls. ♦ More inclined towards wanting to play instead of being told to play.

Will initiate play more. Involving the Parents It is very important that coaches get the parents involved in this age group. For most, it is the first time they are involved in sports. Not only are they a major resource for you, but these players still view their parents as the most significant persons in their lives. Things You Can Expect Some coaches say that this is the age group that players are beginning to “turn the corner” and start looking like real soccer players. However, games are still frantically paced and unpredictable for the most part. These players are starting to find out how much fun it is to play the game skillfully, but they will still stop and laugh if the referee gets hit in the backside with the ball during a game. Some other things you can expect are:

♦ They start to understand offsides, but still forget themselves when the goal is in front of them.

♦ They will really beat up on each other during practice…especially boy’s teams.

♦ During a game, the parents will scream out “HAND BALL” or “COME ON REF, CALL IT BOTH WAYS” at least fifteen times.

♦ They might cry after a game if they lose, but will forget it if you ask them to go for burgers and fries.

♦ You might actually catch them practicing on their own without you telling them to do so.


♦ Their parents are telling them to do one thing during the game, you are telling them another thing, but what they end up doing might be what their friend is telling them to do.

♦ You will see a pass that is deliberate. ♦ You might even see a “back pass”. ♦ You will see your first $100 pair of cleats during practice. ♦ They will call the other team bad names…really bad names.

Coaching Rationale Some of the players you are coaching are seasoned veterans of the youth soccer scene. It is your job to keep things in perspective for these young, developing players. It is true that some of them are becoming quite skillful and are seeing how fun it is to play the game when they can really control the ball. However, many of them are still learning the ropes. Even the more experienced players need to have the game be fun. Emphasis is still placed on players learning to control the ball with his/her body, but now, they need to find themselves in more game-like situations. Training is more dynamic and starts to have players make simple, basic decisions such as “Which way is there more space?” or “Who should I pass to?”

♦ Use small-sided games as the main teaching vehicle. Not only will they get more touches on the ball, but also the full 11-a-side game is still to complicated for them to understand.

♦ How we group players during training takes on even added significance because of the wide margins of ability levels. We need to mix players up often.

♦ Stretching becomes more important, along with a good warm-up. Since the game is faster, make sure they also have good shin guards. Safety and prevention takes on added significance.

♦ Training twice a week is plenty. Sessions need not go longer than 1 ¼ hours.

♦ They should all come with their own #3 size ball. In fact, they still need to be encouraged to play with it by themselves.


♦ Put them into competitive environments as much as possible. This will not only keep them focused, but, will allow the game itself to teach them. It also keeps things fun for them, and allows you to deal with issues such as “winning” and “losing” which is now a very big concern for them.

♦ Now it is possible to teach them positional play with the expectation they will get it some of the time. However, it is absolutely necessary that you do not allow players to specialize in any one position. They need to learn basic principles of the game first. Having them play all of the positions is best for their individual development. Remember, our first responsibility is to develop players and let them have fun.

♦ Whenever possible, allow them to solve their own puzzles. Don’t immediately give them solutions on how they can play better.

Micro-Soccer Skill Developmental Goals Kindergarten 1st Grade 2nd Grade 3rd Grade

Age Group: 4 – 6 yr olds

6 – 7 yr olds 7 – 8 yr olds 8 – 9 yr olds

Division: U6

U7 U8 U9

Ball Size 3

3 3 3

Team Size: Max 40

Max 40 Max 7 Max 12

Skill Priorities: *Dribble with all sides of both feet *Dribble out of trouble *Dribble past someone *Soft first touch

*Dribble with all sides of both feet *Dribble out of trouble *Dribble past someone *Soft first touch *Ability to change direction with ball *Introduce space *Introduce passing

*Dribble out of trouble *Dribble past someone *Shielding *Soft first touch *Ability to change direction with ball *Introduce proper shooting technique *Introduce passing

*Dribble out of trouble *Dribble past someone *Shielding *Soft first touch *Ability to change direction with ball *Introduce proper shooting technique *Introduce passing *Introduce positions

Goal Keepers: No No No Yes Positions: No No No Yes

# Mandatory Weekly

Practices:

0

0

1

1

Game Day Procedure:

45 min training w/ Trainers 40 min “Games” 5v5 max between own team members Lots of water breaks (10min)

45 min training w/ Trainers 40 min “Games” 5v5 max between own team members Lots of water breaks (10min)

45 min training w/ Trainers 40 min Game – 4/10 min quarters- 5v5 max against opposing team

4 / 15 minute quarters. 7v7 max


Typical Characteristics:

Focused on themselves – reality to them is solely based on what they see and feel.

Unable to see the world

from another’s perspective – it is “the world according to me” time. Asking them to understand how someone else is seeing something or feels is unrealistic.

Everything is in the

here and now – forget about the past and future, they live in the moment.

Heating and cooling

systems are less efficient than adults – we need to give frequent water breaks (every 8-10 minutes) or they may just run until they cannot run anymore.

Enjoying playing, not

Focused on themselves – reality to them is solely based on what they see and feel.

Unable to see the world from

another’s perspective – it is “the world according to me” time. Asking them to understand how someone else is seeing something or feels is unrealistic.

Everything is in the here and

now – forget about the past and future, they live in the moment.

Heating and cooling systems

are less efficient than adults – we need to give frequent water breaks (every 8-10 minutes) or they may just run until they cannot run anymore.

Enjoying playing, not watching – they feel no enjoyment from watching others play when they could be playing too. Make sure every player has a ball in

Tend to play well in pairs – unlike 6 year-olds, these children enjoy playing in pairs. Try to set up the pairs yourself to control the games and manage the personalities

Are now able to take

another’s perspective – they now have a sense of how others are feeling

Still unable to think

abstractly – still do not have this capability, be patient

Heating and cooling

system still less efficient than adults – still make sure to give frequent water breaks

Still much prefer playing

to watching – keep everyone active during practice and remember, no lines

Limited attention span

Tend to play well in pairs – unlike 6 year-olds, these children enjoy playing in pairs. Try to set up the pairs yourself to control the games and manage the personalities

Are now able to take

another’s perspective – they now have a sense of how others are feeling

Still unable to think

abstractly – still do not have this capability, be patient

Heating and cooling

system still less efficient than adults – still make sure to give frequent water breaks

Still much prefer

playing to watching – keep everyone active during practice and remember, no lines

Kindergarten 1st Grade 2nd Grade 3rd Grade Typical

Characteristics continued:

watching – they feel no enjoyment from watching others play when they could be playing too. Make sure every player has a ball in practice so every player is always playing.

Limited attention span

(on average 15 seconds for listening, 10-15 minutes when engaged in a task) – keep your directions concise and to the point. When in an open environment, such as a park, their attention span will dwindle towards 10 seconds.

Effort is synonymous

with performance – if they have tried hard, they believe they have done well. This is a wonderful quality and we should be supportive

practice so every player is always playing.

Limited attention span (on

average 15 seconds for listening, 10-15 minutes when engaged in a task) – keep your directions concise and to the point. When in an open environment, such as a park, their attention span will dwindle towards 10 seconds.

Effort is synonymous with

performance – if they have tried hard, they believe they have done well. This is a wonderful quality and we should be supportive of their enthusiasm.

Active imaginations – if we

utilize their imaginations in practice activities, they will love practice!

Look for adult approval – watch how often players look

(on average 15-20 seconds for listening, up to 20 minutes when engaged in a task) – this may vary greatly on any given day depending on school, diet, etc. Try to get a gauge each day and do not fight crankiness

Have an understanding

of time and sequence – they now understand “if I do this, then that happens”

Many have incorporated

a third or fourth speed into play – not all players, but many players now have incorporated a speed or two between stopped and as fast as possible

Extremely aware of adult

reactions – be very aware of your verbal and nonverbal reactions, as they look for your

Limited attention span (on average 15-20 seconds for listening, up to 20 minutes when engaged in a task) – this may vary greatly on any given day depending on school, diet, etc. Try to get a gauge each day and do not fight crankiness

Have an

understanding of time and sequence – they now understand “if I do this, then that happens”

Many have

incorporated a third or fourth speed into play – not all players, but many players now have incorporated a speed or two between stopped and as fast as possible

Extremely aware of



of their enthusiasm.

Active imaginations – if we utilize their imaginations in practice

activities, they will love practice!

Look for adult approval

– watch how often players look to you for approval or to see if you are looking. Also be encouraging when they say “Coach, look what I can do!”

Unable to think

abstractly – asking them to think about spatial relations or runs off the ball is unrealistic.

Typically have 2 speeds

-- extremely fast and stopped.

Usually unaware of

game scores – we should keep it that way.

to you for approval or to see if you are looking. Also be encouraging when they say “Coach, look what I can do!”

Unable to think abstractly –

asking them to think about spatial relations or runs off the ball is unrealistic.

Typically have 2 speeds --

extremely fast and stopped.

Usually unaware of game scores – we should keep it that way.

Often like to fall down just

because it is fun – they are just children having fun.

Often cannot identify left

foot vs. right foot – they know which foot they use most and if they point to their feet you can help teach them left and right.

reaction frequently adult reactions – be very aware of your verbal and nonverbal reactions, as they look

for your reaction frequently



Often like to fall down just because it is fun – they are just children having fun.

Often cannot identify

left foot vs. right foot – they know which foot they use most and if they point to their feet you can help teach them left and right.

Game Starts: Drop Ball Kick Off Kick Off Kick Off Out of Bounds: Drop Ball Throw in Throw In, Corner Kicks Throw In, Corner Kicks

Heading: No No No No


Section 3 -

Learning by Playing


Recommended Training Games The prospect of putting together a practice plan can be very daunting for some new coaches and even some experienced coaches. The reality is that they are quite simple if you don’t over think the process. Your goal should be to work on one or two of the skills that you’ve outlined for the season at each practice and incorporate those into the games. Kids love using their imaginations. The more you can spin the “story” of the game, the more they are into it, and the more “touches” or practice they get with the ball. Tap into your inner child and let him/her play. We’ve listed some games that you can modify and use in your training sessions. These are by no means a complete list. Feel free to use these to develop ideas for other training games. If you create one that the kids really take to, please share it with the group so we can incorporate it in the training guide. 1) Tag---Every child dribbles a soccer ball in a defined space while trying to tag other players with their hand. Players cannot leave their own ball. Have them keep count of how many people they have tagged and, if playing more than one game, see if players can tag more people than they did in the first game. Version 2: Players must tag other players’ knees. (6 minutes) 2) Hospital tag---Same as tag in that each player dribbles a soccer ball and that they try to tag each other with their hands. In this game, each time a player is tagged he/she must place their hand on the spot on their body where they were tagged. Obviously, if tagged a third time, players have no more hands to cover those spots, so they most go to the hospital to see the doctor. The coach acts as the doctor and performs a magical task (pretend) to


heal the injuries of all the little soccer players so they can continue playing the game. (8 minutes) 3) Body Part Dribble- In designated area, coach has all players dribble a soccer ball. When coach yells out the name of a body part, players must touch that body part to the ball as quickly as possible. Coach should vary body parts and rate at which he calls out body parts. At times, call out body parts consecutively (i.e. tummy, nose, and elbow) during one stoppage or call out two body parts at once (i.e. both hands and both feet). (8 minutes) 4) Red light/Green light---All players have a ball and dribble in a limited space (or towards the coach). When coach says “red light”, players must stop ball and put foot on top of ball. When coach says “yellow light”, players must dribble very slowly. When coach says “green light”, players dribble fast. Coach controls this game with the frequency of “light” changes and variety of changes. Once players catch on to this game, add other color lights and affix different actions to them. (i.e. purple light = hop back and forth over ball, orange light = run around the ball, black light = dance, blue light = hide behind the ball etc.). (8 minutes) 5) 3v3 or 4v4 Game---Game---Separate players into two teams and play a game of 3 against 3 or 4 against 4 without goalkeepers. Let the players play and give plenty of positive feedback to them as they compete. REINFORCE the GOOD STUFF! (15 minutes) 6) Tail Steal--- All players tuck a pennie into the back of their shorts to give themselves a tail. All players dribble their soccer ball while trying to pluck the tails of other players and trying to make sure their tail does not get plucked. Players play until the last tail is plucked. (6 minutes) 7) Snake---In an appropriate space, have all players dribble their soccer balls, except for 2-3 players. These players (the snake) hold hands or lock arms and work together to tag the other players. The players with dribbling balls try to avoid getting tagged by the snake. If they are tagged, they join hands or lock arms with the snake. The snake grows until all players are part of the snake. The snake must work together and not break into little parts. Encourage fun by having the snake hiss. (8 minutes)


8) Freeze Tag---Everyone has a ball and coach can pick one or two players who are the Freeze monsters. Freeze monsters (with ball) try and dribble around and tag other players (who also have a ball and are dribbling around). The frozen player must stand still holding their ball over their head. The way the players can become unfrozen, is if the coach comes over and unfreezes them OR the coach can have the other players unfreeze each other (by simply touching them again). If all players are frozen, game ends and the coach can have new Freeze monsters. Version 2: Freeze monsters can now try and freeze each other by using their soccer ball to ‘tag’ someone else’s soccer ball or feet by kicking their ball. Version 3: Coach can be the freeze monster and try to tag all the players with players unfreezing each other in same fashion. (8 minutes) 9) Capture the Balls---Set up three or four “home bases” (squares) with cones roughly 2-3 yards wide. Break up the players into teams and have each team get together in their home base. Place all the balls in the center of the space between the home bases. On the coach’s command the teams are free to gather as many soccer balls as they can into their home base. Players cannot use hands and there is no pushing each other or sitting/laying on the balls. Teams try to gather as many balls as possible into their home bases. Teams can steal balls from each others’ home bases. Coach calls time and count up how many balls are in each space to determine a winner. Coach allows team 1 minute to make up a new team strategy before playing again. (8 minutes) 10) Free Dribble---Everyone dribbling a ball, using insides, outsides, and soles of their feet. Players can dribble with speed (outsides of the feet and toes), try moves of their choice or moves that the coach introduces, or they can change direction. The Coach can manipulate the session by calling out different commands…”stop, go, turn, tap”. Kids can carry the ball towards someone and try a move. Version 2: As players get comfortable, the coach can walk around and put pressure on players as they are performing dribbling tasks. This adds fun and interaction. (8 minutes)


11) Kangaroo Jack---All players except two or three begin with a ball. Players without balls are kangaroo jacks and must hop like a kangaroo and try to tag players. If a player gets tagged, he/she becomes a kangaroo as well until all players are turned into kangaroos. (6 minutes) 12) Ball Tag---Similar to other tag games except players try to tag others with their soccer ball, by kicking it at another player’s feet or ball. Have them keep count of how many times they kick their soccer ball and tag another person. Can have the players tag the coach for 10 or 20 points. Then can have players tag other selected players for 50 or 100 points etc. etc. Version 2: Rather than having players tag each other have them tag the coach by kicking their soccer ball. The coach moves around without a ball to avoid being tagged. Have players count up how many they got and can do the same variations as in the other game by affixing a lot of points to players. (8 minutes) 13) Moving Goal---2 coaches use a pennie or an extra piece of clothing to form a movable goal with each coach serving as a post and the shirt serving as the crossbar. Players each have a ball and try to score by kicking their ball through the goal. However, the coaches constantly move and turn to force the players to keep their head up and to change direction as they dribble. (8 minutes) 14) Ballons Up---Everyone with a ball. Hold hands out with ball in between, drop ball directly down and kick back up to hands, etc. Players practice by keeping the ball in the air with their feet and thighs. Players count how many times they touch the ball before it drops to the ground. Version 2: Controlled juggling…juggle on one thigh, then add other thigh, then add one foot, then add the other foot…thigh-thigh-foot-foot (6 minutes) 15) Paint the Field---Every player dribbles their ball in the area defined. You explain to them that their ball is actually a paintbrush and wherever it rolls on the ground, it paints that area. The task is to paint as much of the area as possible in the time allotted by dribbling their soccer balls all over the grid. Version 2: Can ask them to paint with only their left foot, then their right foot. (8 minutes)


16) Goofy Stop & Go---All players have a ball and dribble in a limited space (or towards the coach). When coach says “Stop”, players must stop ball and put foot on top of ball and freeze in a goofy position. (8 minutes) 17) Pirate Ship---Set up a 20x20 grid (Pirate ship deck) with a small 6x6grid (safe shark cage) just in one of the corners of the field. Coach makes up variations and adds them to their pirate ship journey one at a time. Variations on the ship can be: Scrub the deck-players must roll the ball back and forth with the sole of their foot, then coach can ask them to do this while moving all around the Pirate Ship deck. Hoist the sail-players can knock the ball back and forth between their feet (foundation), then dribble all around the Pirate Ship deck as fast as they can. Walk the plank- players must do toe touches on their soccer ball, and then dribble all around the Pirate Ship deck as fast as they can. Shark attack-Coach (aka: ‘Shark’) runs after players and they have to try and dribble their soccer ball into the 6x6 (safe shark cage) before the ‘shark’ catches them. (8 minutes) 18) Crab Soccer---Set up a grid roughly 8yd x 10yd. Have 3-4 players inside the grid acting as crabs. These crabs do not have a soccer ball. Other players start at one end of the grid and when the coach says “Go”, they dribble their soccer balls to the other end of the grid. The crabs try to kick their soccer balls out of the grid. If a dribbler’s ball goes out of the grid, that player becomes a crab as well. Play until all players turn into crabs. (8 minutes) 19) Gates---Set up many pairs of cones (with roughly 2 yards in between pairs) all around the playing area. These pairs serve as gates or many mini-goals. Players each have a ball and must dribble through the gate in order to score. Have players count how many goals they score in 30 seconds and when playing a second time ask them if they can beat their score by one goal. Coaches can vary this by asking players to dribble with left foot or right foot. If players end up dribbling back and forth through only one goal, set up a rule to protect against this. (8 minutes)


20) Cops and Robbers---Coach sets up 8-10 stand-up cones in a 15yd x 15yd space. Robbers all have soccer balls and knock over the cones (banks) by kicking their balls into the cones and knocking them over. Cops (have 2 or 3 cops for each game) do not have soccer balls and need to stand the cones back up (before all the banks are robbed). Rotate who gets to be cops. Variation (If don’t have stand- up cones): ½ group (cops) take soccer balls and put on top of disc cones. Other ½ of group (robbers) try to knock over those soccer balls by kicking their soccer balls at them. Cops must replace the soccer balls on the cones as quickly as possible. (8 minutes) 21) Shrek/Spiderman/Spongebob---Place a couple players in pennies and have everyone else get a soccer ball. Set up a 20 yd x 15 yd grid and have the players with soccer balls dribble around in the space. The players in pennies are Shrek (or Spiderman or SpongeBob, etc.) and try to tag the players who have soccer balls. When players are tagged they go to into the goal (castle, spidernet etc. etc.) and can only get back out if a teammate with a ball tags them or the coach uses his/her magic powers to let everyone free. Use any character or images you like for this and make sure all players get a chance to be one of the special characters at some point during every practice. (8 minutes) 22) Sharks & Minnows---The minnows (players with the ball) line up shoulder to shoulder on one end of the grid. Two players are designated as sharks and are positioned inside the grid without soccer balls. On the coach’s command, the minnows must dribble their ball through the grid and get to the other side without getting their ball stolen or kicked away by the sharks. If a minnow loses their ball while crossing the grid, they become a shark. (8 minutes) 23) Hit the Ball—Players line up shoulder to shoulder on one end of the grid with their balls. Place 2 balls in the middle of the grid. One at a time players kick their ball and try to hit one of the balls in the middle. 24) Sweep the Deck—Players pretend they are on a Pirate Ship and trying to keep the deck clean. Mark a rectangular grid about 40x20 yards with cones marking a center line. Half the players and balls are on one side and


the other half on the other side. The object is to kick the balls to the other side and have the fewest balls when time is up. Play for 1-2 minutes and 3 to 5 rounds. Lastly, place coaches or helpers along the sides to redirect balls going out of bounds. Encourage players to kick with the laces! 25) Rob the Bank - Divide your field in two with a center line of cones. Mark 2 5x5 yard squares on each half about 20 yards from the center line and about 25 yards apart (see figure). One square on each half is the jail and the other is the bank. Place X number of balls in each bank where X equals the number of players per team. Procedure: The object of the game is for a team to gather all the balls in their bank while following these rules: 1. Players are safe in their half but if a player is tagged while in the opponent's half he or she must go directly to jail. 2. A player is released from jail if a teammate tags them. 3. Players must use their feet to move the ball. 4. Players are not allowed to hang out in their bank or jail. Infraction results in loss of ball. 5. There are no out of bounds. 26) Dragon’s Egg - Squads broken into 4: 3 Knights & 1 Dragon. 4 cones outline confined space for each squad. The Knights must keep the Dragon’s Egg (ball) away from the Dragon in order to keep their village safe. 1 minute rounds, switch Dragons. Focus on ball handling & passing within space. 27) Fox & Farmer - All Foxes have pennies hanging from their shorts (tails). Foxes have a ball and dribble away from the Farmers (4-5 players). Farmers try to capture the foxes by pulling their tails. If a fox is caught, he/she must juggle the ball 5 times and then get back into the hunt. Rotate Farmers after 2 minutes. 28) Ouch Goes the Coach - Everyone has a ball. The goal is for each player to try to hit the coach with the ball. Every time the coach gets hit, they cry ouch or whatever animal sound the team wishes.


29) Storm the Castle - ½ group (Castle Guards) take soccer balls and place them on top of disc cones. The other ½ group (Magicians) try to knock over those soccer balls by kicking their soccer balls at them. Castle Guards must replace the soccer balls on the cones as quickly as possible before all the Castles are destroyed. 30) Cross the Moat - All the Knights & Princess have a ball. Alligators are placed in the center with no ball. Their goal is to kick the ball away from the Knights & Princesses as they try to cross the moat into the Castle. Once a ball is kicked away, the Knight or Princess joins the middle and becomes an Alligator. Game ends when all Knights & Princesses are Alligators. 31) Treasure Hunt - Everyone has a ball and is a pirate (break into 4 squads). The four goals are the ships that hold treasures (cones). Each ship is trying to take the other ships treasure. You must dribble your ball to the other ship and try to bring their cones back to your ship. The pirates with the most “treasure” wins. 32) Egg Hunt - All balls are placed in the center. Players are divided into 4 squads by each goal. Object is for each team to get as many eggs (balls) back to their basket (net). No hands. Dribbling only. The ones with the most eggs win. 33) Frog Attack - Everyone has a ball except for the two frogs in the middle. The goal is for each frog to try to tag a player with a ball who then becomes a frog. 34) Help, Help, I’m Stuck in the Mud - Everyone has a ball. Two mud monsters are chosen. They try to kick the other players with their ball. Once a player is tagged he/she cries out “Help, Help I’m stuck in the mud” and holds their ball over their heads. A teammate crawls between their legs to unfreeze them. 35) Get the Nut - Everyone has a ball. “Trees” are set up for every squad. Goal is to dribble ball to the “nuts” aka cones, pick one up and bring back to your “Tree”. You can steal “nuts” from your opponents’ trees. Whoever has the most at the end of time wins.

The Sharks – Edison Youth Soccer PreK – Kindergarten Spring 2008 Season

TRAINING SESSION PLAN

Session # : 1 Time: 1 Hour Coach: Angie M. Tarighi Warm-Up: Ball Control, Dribbling (10 min)

1. Roll-Call – Squad Assignments / Pinnies, Run - All Players push ball forward with

a. laces b. inside foot c. outside foot

DISCUSS RULES: 1) Have fun 2) Okay to make mistakes

2. Tic Tock w/ Body Stop – players dribble ball back and forth between their feet until the Coach calls the body part that needs to be on the ball (i.e., arm, head, stomach, etc)

3. Happy Feet w/ Soccer Hop – players learn to stay on their toes – practice hop to strike (proper form)

Help, Help, I’m Stuck in the Mud: (10 min) Everyone has a ball. Two mud monsters are chosen. They try to kick the other players with their ball. Once a player is tagged he/she cries out “Help, Help I’m stuck in the mud” and holds their ball over their heads. A teammate crawls between their legs to unfreeze them. Get the Nut: (10min) Everyone has a ball. “Trees” are set up for every squad. Goal is to dribble ball to the “nuts” aka cones, pick one up and bring back to your “Tree”. You can steal “nuts” from your opponents’ trees. Whoever has the most at the end of time wins.

X X X X X

X X X X X

Sharks & Minnows: (10 min) All the Minnows have a ball. Sharks are placed in the center with no ball. Their goal is to kick the ball away from a minnow as they try to make it from one end to the other. Once a ball is kicked away, the Minnow joins the middle and becomes a Shark. Game ends when all Minnows are Sharks.

M S M M S M M S M M S M

Game: 4v4 without GK (15 min)

X X O O X X O O

Break Squads into two teams to practice (same breakdown as Game Day): Blue v. Coral Orange v. Camo Red v. Gold Lime v. Pink

The Sharks – Edison Youth Soccer PreK – Kindergarten Spring 2008 Season


Session # : 4 Time: 1 Hour Coach: Angie M. Tarighi Warm-Up: Ball Control, Dribbling (10 min)

1. Roll-Call – Squad Assignments / Pinnies, Run - All Players push ball forward with

a. laces b. inside foot c. outside foot

DISCUSS RULES: 1) Have fun 5) Hands off other 2) Okay to make mistakes players 3) Give your best 4) Sportsmanship

2. Tic Tock w/ Body Stop – players dribble ball back and forth between their feet until the Coach calls the body part that needs to be on the ball (i.e., arm, head, stomach, etc)

3. Happy Feet w/ Soccer Hop – players learn to stay on their toes – practice hop to strike (proper form)

4. Drag & Turn – players learn to drag the ball backwards and turn

Hot Potato: (10 min) Every player has a ball. The object is to pass the ball to the player next to them as quickly as possible with the inside of their foot. Try to keep them in groups of 4. Switch direction and inside vs. outside of foot. Fox & Farmer: (10min) All Foxes have a ball. The Farmer is trying to protect his sheep from the Foxes. The Foxes (players with pinnies in their pants). The goal of the Farmer is to catch the fox by their tail (pinnies). Tagged players then have to go to the Forest Jail and can only get out if tagged by another player with a ball or the Coach’s magical powers.

Fox Fox Fox Fox F F F Fox

Fox Fox Fox

Gates: (10 min) All players have a ball. Set up pairs of cones (roughly 2 yards apart) all around the playing area. These are mini-gates. Players must dribble through the gates to score. Players keep count of how many gates they go through in a set time period. Variations: dribble with left foot only or right foot only

Game: 4v4 without GK (15 min)

X X O O X X O O

Break Squads into two teams to practice (same breakdown as Game Day): Blue v. Gold Red v. Coral Lime v. Camo Pink v. Orange


Date: Coach: Time: Theme of Session:

ORGANIZATION TRAINING CONDITIONS TIME Warm-Up:

5-6 Min

Activity #1:

10-15Min

Activity #2:

10-15Min

Activity #3:

10-15Min

Game: 3v3 or 4v4

15Min


Section 4 -

Resources


Useful Websites Edison United Soccer Association – http://www.edisonunitedsoccer.com Our club website contains game schedules, directions to fields, practice training material and regular club updates. League Lineup – http://leaguelineup.com Free team website to manage information flow to your parents. Also has a tree phone feature with one call dial in. Soccer – A Sideline Guide for Parents –http://www.soccerparent.com/pdf/PG_web.pdf Why have this guide? Because many parents in North America have never had any contact with soccer. This guide explains many of the things that coaches and players take for granted. Unlike adults in other sports, soccer parents are learning the game from their kids. This of course is intolerable, since we are older and will always know more than they do. This book is your secret source of wisdom.


Soccer Glossary Knowing the basic soccer terminology is very important for parents and coaches. A big part of helping a child succeed at soccer is in supporting them. And to support them you need to educate yourself on the basics of soccer. This section is divided into various parts:

♦ Basic Soccer Position Terms ♦ Advanced Soccer Positions ♦ Field Terms ♦ Basic Soccer Action Terms ♦ Advanced Soccer Action Terms ♦ Basic Soccer Rules Terms

Basic Soccer Position Terms

Backs – Refers to defenders.

Defender – A player who works mainly in the defensive third of the field. They are primarily focused on stopping the opposition’s attackers from scoring.

Forward – A player who is responsible for most of a team's scoring. They play in front of the rest of their team (or in the attaching third of the field) where they can take most of the shots.

Fullback – a rear defender.

Goalie – Abbreviation for Goalkeeper.


Goalkeeper – The player positioned directly in front of the goal who tries to prevent shots from crossing the goalline; the only player allowed to use their hands and arms, though only within the 18-yard penalty area.

Keeper – Abbreviation for Goalkeeper.

Midfielder – A player generally positioned in the middle third of the field between the forwards and defenders. Their job is to link the defense and the offense through ball control and passing. They play both an attacking role and a defensive role.

Striker – Generally the same as a forward, though it sometimes refers to a forward that is his team’s primary scoring threat.

Sweeper – Not always used. In some formations, a single defender that plays closest to their own goal behind the rest of the defenders; a team's last line of defense in front of the goalkeeper.

Advanced Soccer Positions

Attacking Midfielder – The midfielder that plays right behind the forwards; they support the offense by providing passes to forwards to set up goals.

Central Defender – A player who guards the area directly in front of their own goal, often considered the strongest defender.

Central Forward – A team's best-scoring forward who plays towards the center of the field.

Central Midfielder – The midfielder most responsible for organizing play in the midfield area, creating scoring opportunities for the attackers, and often a team's leader.


Defensive Midfielder – The player positioned just in front of their team's defense and often assigned to mark the opposition's best offensive player; tends to play more defense as a midfielder.

Finisher – A forward or striker who has the ability to "put away" or score when opportunities are given to them.

Halfback – Same as a midfielder.

Midfield Anchor – Same as a defensive midfielder.

Midfield General – Same as the central midfielder.

Midfield Maestro – Same as the central midfielder.

Stopper – The player that defends or guards the best scorer on the attacking team, often the opposition's striker.

Wingers – The outside forwards and midfielders (often the fastest players and best dribblers) who play on the sides of the field. Their primary task is to provide them with accurate crossing passes so they can shoot at the goal.

Field Terms

Center Circle – a circular marking with a 10-yard radius in the “center” of the field from which kickoffs are taken to start or restart the game. Purpose: Simply a reference line for the referee and defenders. Defenders must be as least 10 yards away from the ball prior to start or restart.

Center Line – See Midfield line.

Center Spot – The “center” of the center circle from which kickoffs are taken to start or restart the game.


Corner Arc – an arc or quarter-circle with a radius of 1 yard located at each of the 4 corners of the soccer field. Purpose: Also a reference line, the ball must be kicked from inside this arc on a corner kick.

Corner Flag – the flag located at each of the 4 corners of the soccer field, inside the corner area.

End Line – the boundary line extending from corner to corner along its width at each end.

Field – the rectangular area where soccer matches are played.

Goal Area – the rectangular area (20 x 6 yd. on a full-size soccer field) marked within the penalty area (or inside the larger rectangle) and directly in front of goal. Purpose: Marks the area from which all goal kicks must be taken.

Goal Box – commoner’s term for the goal area or sometimes the penalty area.

Goal Line – same as the end line.

Midfield Line – a line in the center of the soccer field that divides the field in half along its width and runs parallel to the goals. Purpose: Used for start and restart as well as for calling offside. A player cannot be offside on their half of the field. Also called the center line.

Penalty area – The larger rectangle (18 x 44 yd. On a full size field) in front of the goal that includes the goal area. Purpose: Marks both where the goalkeeper is allowed to touch the ball with his hands AND the area where harsh fouls committed by the defending team result in penalty kicks.

Penalty Arc – The arc at the top of the penalty area. Purpose: Designates how far back all players must be away from the ball while a penalty kick is being taken.

Penalty Mark (or Spot) – the mark on the soccer field from which penalty kicks are taken.


Pitch – Another word for the field.

Sideline – common word for the touchline.

Touchline – the line that runs along the length of each side of the field. Commonly called the sideline in other sports.

Basic Soccer Action Terms

Center – a pass from either side of the field towards the middle of the field. It is used primarily to get the ball closer to the front of the goal. The words “center” and “cross” are used interchangeably.

Charging – a method of running at and unbalancing the player who has possession, or is attempting to gain possession of the ball; the act of using a "shoulder" against an opponent’s shoulder to gain an advantage, allowed only when the ball is playable (i.e. within 3 feet).

Clearing – the act of moving the ball out of the area of one’s own goal by throwing (goalkeeper only) or kicking it.

Cross – another word for center.

Fake – a move by a player meant to deceive an opposing player. Used to gain an advantage, it is frequently used when dribbling to get past an opponent.

Feint – another word for a fake.

Foot Trap – the use of the foot, usually the bottom, to control a rolling or low bouncing ball.

Header – When a player passes or shoots the ball with his head.


Save – the act of a goalkeeper in stopping a shot that would have otherwise gone into the goal.

Screening – another word for shielding.

Shielding –used by the person with the ball to protect the ball from a defender; the ball carrier keeps their body between the ball and the defender.

Slide Tackle – a move where a player attempts to win the ball by sliding towards the ball. If the tackling player touches the ball first, he is allowed to make contact with the player controlling the ball. If the tackling player strikes the player before the ball, a foul is assessed. A tackle from behind is always a foul regardless of whether the tackler managed to get to the ball first.

Tackle – the act of taking the ball away from a player by kicking or stopping it with one's feet.

Trap – the use of one’s body to slow down and control a moving ball, most often using the chest, thighs or feet.

Advanced Soccer Action Terms

Banana Kick – a kick that curves the ball such that it takes the shape of a banana. This is usually attempted on a corner kick to curve the ball from the corner directly into the goal.

Bicycle Kick – when a player kicks the ball in mid-air backwards and over their own head, usually making contact above waist level. Not too frequent at the youth level!

Cut Back – dribbling the ball backwards in the reverse way of the goal in an attempt to keep possession of the ball.


Cut Down the Angle – when the goalie comes out of the goal several feet to make themselves closer and larger to an attacker. The effect is to leave the attacker less of an open net to shoot at.

First Time Ball – when the ball is received and propelled in a single movement. Also called one touch pass and first touch.

First Touch – another word for first time ball.

Flick – a quick header.

Hospital Ball – a dangerous pass from one teammate to another. Instead of being crisp the pass is too soft, resulting in a pass that becomes a 50/50 ball (up for grabs) instead of one that is easily received.

Instep Drive – a shot taken with the instep of a player's foot; usually the most powerful and accurate of shots.

Instep Pass – a pass made by striking the ball with the instep.

In Swinger – a ball that is curving in toward the goal, usually made from a corner kick. Same thing as a banana kick.

"Man On" – the call a player makes to a teammate who is closely marked by an opposing player but may not be aware of it.

Mark – to cover an opponent with or without the ball to keep them from passing, receiving or shooting the ball.

Narrowing the Angle – same as cut down the angle.

Offside Trap – a play by the defense to catch the attacking team offside. The rear defenders will quickly pull up past the attackers to put the attackers in an offside position.

One Touch Pass – another term for a first time ball.


"Pull Up" – can also be “push up”, a phrase used to tell the defense to move up the field in a more attacking position. Sometimes used as the command for an offside trap.

Scissors Kick – another word for bicycle kick.

Shoulder Tackle – a tackle used to get the ball away from an opponent by making shoulder-to-shoulder contact.

Two Touch Pass – a pass in which the ball is received by a player with one touch and then played to a teammate with the next touch.

Basic Soccer Rules Terms

Caution – a disciplinary action in which the referee shows a player the yellow card (for violating a soccer rule). A second caution in the same match results in the player being shown the red card (ejected from the game).

Corner kick – a direct free kick that is awarded when the defending team puts the ball over the end line. A corner kick is taken by the offensive team from next to the corner flag.

Dangerous Play – an action by a player that the referee considers dangerous to that player or others. Examples are high kicking, playing while lying on the ground, or playing the ball while it is in the possession of the goalkeeper.

Direct Free Kick – a free kick that is awarded at the spot of the infraction for a physical contact foul such as tripping, holding, pushing, tackles from behind, jumping into an opponent, or for hand balls. A direct free kick can score by going directly into the goal. It does not have to be touched by anyone other than the kicker.

Drop Ball – a method of restarting a game where the referee drops the ball between 2 players facing each other. A drop ball restarts the game after play is stopped for no penalty situation (e.g. after an injury) and in other


circumstances (more than one soccer rule about this). The ball is dropped where it was last in play or at the nearest point outside the penalty area.

Foul – when the referee judges a violation against an opposing player. The team that suffers the foul is awarded with a direct free kick unless the foul is committed by a defensive player inside his own penalty area, in which case the foul results in a penalty kick.

Goal Kick – a type of restart that is awarded when the attacking team puts the ball over the end line. The ball is kicked from anywhere inside the goal area away from the goal to restart play. After the kick is taken, the ball cannot be touched again by any player until it is outside of the penalty area.

Indirect Free Kick – a free kick that is awarded at the spot of the infraction for other fouls that are judged not to be serious such as obstruction, dangerous play or charging (non-contact fouls), as well as for offside. Indirect kicks must touch another player (either team) before the ball goes into the net in order to score.

Offside – a difficult soccer rule. A violation that occurs when an offensive player is closer to the opponent’s goal than both the ball and the second-to-last opposing player at the time that the ball is passed to the offensive player by his or her teammate. Players cannot be called offside if they are in their own half of the field or if they receive the ball from a throw in, corner kick, or goal kick. When a player is called offside, the opposing team is awarded an indirect free kick.

Obstruction – a foul in which a defensive player, instead of going after the ball, illegally uses their body to prevent an offensive player from playing it.

Penalty kick – A kick taken from 12 yards in front of the goal as a result of a contact foul or hand ball that takes place inside the penalty area.

Red card – a referee shows a player a red card to signal that the player has been banned from the rest of the match. A red card can be shown for a single serious offense or as the result of being shown a second yellow card in the same game. After a player is shown a red card, the player must leave the


field of play and cannot be replaced by a substitute, meaning that his or her team must finish the match with one player fewer.

Sending off – an ejection resulting from a player being shown a red card. See also Red card.

Throw-in – a way to restart play when the ball goes out over the sidelines. The team that did not touch the ball last is allowed an overhead throw.

Yellow card – see Caution.


Section 5 -

Forms


Date: Coach: Time: Theme of Session:

ORGANIZATION TRAINING CONDITIONS TIME Warm-Up:

5-6 Min

Activity #1:

10-15Min

Activity #2:

10-15Min

Activity #3:

10-15Min

Game: 3v3 or 4v4

15Min

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