Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): U11-U12 Academy Session 1 (Dribble or Pass)

Dribble or Pass (1A) (15 mins)

Organization:

As seen above

Instructions: *(defenders get a point upon stopping the attack or blocking the pass into attacking zone)

The ball will always start with the two red players who are passing pack and fourth trying to get the ball to their teammate  in the attacking zone who will dribble and score on the goal. The defending player in the middle zone is shifting trying to deny the pass and then when the pass is made, can track back and attempt to stop the player from scoring.  Rotate the players often to give them a chance to attack and defend.

Progression:

1. Players are now allowed to dribble the ball into the attacking zone if there is space and the defender will track and it becomes a 2v1 with the other player already in the attacking zone.

1a. The defender in the middle zone can try leave their zone to apply pressure when it makes sense. This will either force a pass or dribbling opportunity for the two attacking players.

2. Add a defender beside the goal as shown in the picture. When the two players in red pass or dribble into the attacking zone, one of them joins the attack and there is a defender on yellow who will be entering the play. Again the attacking team should have a temporary advantage if they transition quickly.

 Coaching Points:

1. Decision making/awareness - when to dribble (not always the best option) or when to pass

2. Passes to feet or into space for a dribble option

3. Use the pass as a decoy to create a dribbling opportunity

4. Open body position to receive the ball

2v1 Defending (2A) (15 mins)

Organization:

As shown above

Instructions:

he defender in yellow beside the goal will take a touch dribble out and then pass the ball to the player in red who will then receive and start attacking trying to score in the yet. The defender will try and will the ball and after willing the ball they will dribble the ball past the end line ahead of them for a point. 

Playing options:

The attacker with the ball can choose to do the following:

1. dribble 1v1 and go score in the net

2. play a give and go with the player on the side to create a better scoring chance

3. play a give and go and the player on the side can decide to pass the ball back or dribble themselves and go score based on the defender's positioning

Coaching Points:

- Decision making - dribble or pass? (where am I dribbling to?)

- Awareness - where is the opponent and where is the space?

- Shift your body weight to throw the defender off balance, use fakes to create space for yourself

- Change of pace and direction to beat a player