Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): Academy 3/11

Warmup (20 mins)

THE SESSION:

Players partner up with 1 ball per pair. Player A serves the ball to player B to be returned with a volley from a particular surface. Laces, instep, thigh using both feet and legs. After each volley the player runs backwards around cone and back to start to receive next serve. Repeat to each surface 3 times. Switch roles after each surface.

PROGRESSIONS: 

Have players receive with specific surface (include chest if appropriate) and get ball to the ground for a quick return pass. Still do the work between serves.

KEY MESSAGES/POINTS:

Control the serve. Stress athleticism and softer touches to maintain tight possession. Possession more important than speed for the routine.

Receiving Under Pressure to 1v1 (20 mins)

THE SESSION:

Playing Wide.  

Play starts with center player sending a properly weighted pass to the outside.  Outside player receives the ball with the back foot and does a controlling touch forward toward goal.  They then get a control touch and shot on goal.  Rotation is basically following the ball.  Next player up plays to opposite side.  Pattern continues.

PROGRESSIONS:

Add in the shaded area, a defender to release to outside once a touch is made.  Creates 1v1 on the outside.

KEY MESSAGES/POINTS:

Speed and quality of pass.

Body shape to receive the ball on the back foot.

Control of the ball.

End product/shot on goal.  

SSG

SSG mini game.

4v4 

Key Points:

1. Pass and move to space.  Where can you be helpful?

2. If the shot is not available, work the ball until you find the best shot.

3. Can you be composed under pressure and find the open teammate.

4. Talk.  Communicate with each other.