Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): U12-U16 Technical Practice Controlling Possession to Switch Play Function

Video

Practice Organisation:

• This is an unopposed technical passing practice that uses 10 players positioned across eight flat markers.
• The ball starts with one of the players at an end flat marker, and is played through as a switch of play under no pressure.
• The ball passes twice through one of the players positioned on a central flat marker, while the other central player rests.
• After each pass, the players should follow their pass.
• After the first pattern is completed and the ball is back at the end it started, the pattern is repeated with the first pass played in the other direction. This time, the ball should be played through the second central player.
• The coach should encourage players to make short and sharp movements off the markers to make themselves available for the pass.
• Play for six working blocks of two minutes. 

• Coach the players to pass the ball with quality, and the correct weight and accuracy, to allow the receiving player to play forward off their first touch.
• All passes should be played smoothly along the pitch. 
• The practice is unopposed, but it offers an opportunity for the players to get into the habit of scanning before receiving.
• The player receiving the ball should scan before the pass is played into them, to ensure they are aware of what’s around them.
• When looking to switch play with a long pass, encourage the players to experiment with the type of pass they play.
• Long passes can be played along the ground or in the air, and can be driven or clipped.
• When attempting to turn and play forwards or switch play, players should be challenged to get into a position that allows them to see where the ball is coming from and where they want to pass to.
• Their first touch needs to be soft and in a direction where they want to make their next pass. This will allow a smooth action into playing the pass.
• As the practice progresses, and the players are required set the ball for a longer pass, the player setting the ball must concentrate on doing so softly.
• This will allow the oncoming player to make good contact on their pass and play it first time.

• A second ball is added to progress the practice, with one starting at either end.
• The players are now challenged to complete two new patterns, with the main focus still on switching play. Players still follow their pass.
• The coach can also challenge the players to play off one touch where necessary.
• Again, play for six working blocks of two minutes.