Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Newsletter Activity - Jan 2026

Overload Scrimmage

Session Organization:

• This activity can either be a small-sided game (4v4 for example) or a scrimmage (11v11). Field dimensions will match the number of players involved. Each team will have a goal to attack and one goal to defend. Both goals will have a cone behind and multiple spare balls. The game is played with the usual laws of the game except when a player loses possession of the ball. That player must run around the cone behind the oppositions goal before re-entering the game. The spare balls only need to be used if they will restart the game quicker than chasing the original ball.

Technical Points:

• Disguised fitness - This activity can be used for fitness. The distance of the cone behind the goal can be intentionally placed for fitness reasons. We want either a quick explosive short sprint or an extended sprint. The distance will need be modified for different age groups or that team's general fitness levels. We want them to complete the sprint and re-enter the game as soon as possible.
• Overloads - The game is designed to be a scrimmage with an emphasis on the overload. When a player begins their cone sprint. The team who has gained possession of the ball may have a number advantage of players over the other team. How do we take advantage? Play quick and direct within the transition before the player recovers and rejoins the team or the team with the disadvantage recovers their defensive shape.
• Underload - How do we defend when being at a number disadvantage? We recover first and look to contain the attack by taking away the space in dangerous areas of the field. In particularly the middle especially in front of goal. Then look for potential pressing opportunities, can we press the ball and take away a passing option that then eliminates the player advantage the attacking team has over the defending team.
• Be brave - This game is a risk/reward game. If players choose to play safe. we may never progress up the field to potentially create a goalscoring opportunity or take advantage of having an overload. Players must remain brave on the ball with the risk of performing a sprint for losing possession of the ball.
• Counter Press - Our immediate reaction to losing possession of the ball. Instead of a sprint to the cone, we sprint to the ball in an attempt to win the ball back immediately and hopefully as high up the field as possible. When successful, could lead to a goalscoring opportunity.

Keywords:

• Overload
• Underload
• Be Brave
• Counter Press

Notes:

• Do not overload the players with information. This activity can be used multiple times in different sessions and choose one technical point to focus on. Giving the players a better opportunity to learn.