Football/Soccer Session (Beginner): Passing to Penetrate

Warmup Passing (10 mins)

Organization:

"Iron Cross": 2 players at every cone.

Instructions:

Pass and follow the pass, as illustrated 1-6. Start with ball in hands to learn the pattern. Add a second ball, start simultaneously at position (A). Once the pattern is learned progress to feet. Play two touches to get the rhythm of the activity. The ball should always be moving.

Coaching Points:

Middle player to check the shoulder before receiving "on toes"

Receive with the furthest foot

Pass with the other foot

Middle player to start high, then check to receive

Progressions:

Play one touch in the middle (the outer players always plays two touches though) OR

Expand the space

2v2+1 (15 mins)

Organization:

15x25 channel.

Option 1: 2v2+1 to endzones - stop with your foot on the ball to score.

Option 2: 2v2+1 to targets - connect the ball from one target to the other to score.

Option 3: 3v2 where 3 play to endzone, 2 counter to small goal.

Instructions:

3 minute games. Winning team moves up the ladder, loser moves down. After last game the losing teams in the two lowest divisions do pushups.

Coaching Points:

Movement/positioning to create width and depth.

When to play quickly, when to play slowly

Angles and distances to combine

Open body shape

Communication

Progressions:

P-Add touch limit

P/R-Adjust number of consecutive passes required to score, as needed

Free Play (25 mins)

Organization:

- 3 teams of 5 players

Instructions:

- 3-touch maximum to force good movement off the ball.

- Two teams play 3 minute small sided games of 5 vs. 5.

- First to score wins, winner stays on.

- In the case of a draw, new team stays.

Coaching Points:

- As before. Minimal stoppages.