Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): Winter 3 Rec Week 4

Partner Strikes (Knuckle)

Partner Strikes

Players standing across the field from their partner, practicing long strikes with the knuckle (top) of the foot. Circle around to every player to give tips on their technique.

Coaching Points:

• Start approach at 45-degree angle
  
• Take a big step into the strike
• Plant non-kicking foot next to the ball
• Point toe down (plantar flexion) before, during, and after the strike
• Keep ankles strong by curling toes toward the sole of the shoe
• Follow through toward the target
• Land on the shooting foot where the ball was (don't jump through the strike)

Add Challenge:

• Require the players to keep the ball moving and only use two touches to send the ball to their teammate.
• Make it a competition by having the players race to 20 strikes.
• Require the players to alternate feet each strike to work on both sides.

Pass & Pressure

Pass & Pressure

Defenders (blue) pass a ball to the attackers, who take a first touch and then shoot on goal. Players switch lines after each rep. Every minute or so, swap out the goalkeeper.

Once players are successful using proper striking technique and positive first touches, the defenders pressure the ball after passing and attempt to block the shot. Switch defenders to the other side of the field to practice different angles and shooting feet.

Coaching Points:

• Use proper striking technique
• Positive first touch away from pressure to create space and set up your strike
• Look up to see the goalkeeper and the open portions of the goal
• Use both feet to shoot, depending on the angle and defender.

Add Challenge: Attackers can use any number of touches to score. Can the attacker evade the defender and create space for a shot?