Football/Soccer Session (Beginner): 7v7 Week 4, Session 2: Switching the Play

Arrival Games (10 mins)

OUTLINE: When players arrive at practice, have them play small-sided games (up to 3v3) to engage immediately.

SET-UP: 6 players per field, 2 fields sized 25x15 yards each.

INSTRUCTIONS: Players start free-play 3v3 games upon arrival. The coach should ask guided questions to get the players thinking about the theme of the session.

Technical Receiving (15 mins)

OUTLINE/INSTRUCTIONS: Players split into four groups of three with two teammates on the outside and one in the middle. The middle player checks at an angle, receives the ball on the half-turn, and plays to the teammate on the opposite side. Outside players rotate into the middle after each sequence. Repeat continuously for 60 seconds.

SET-UP: 6 players per grid, 12x12 or 15x15 yards. See diagram above.

COACHING POINTS: Receive on the half-turn with hips open to see both teammates, check at an angle, and execute passes with proper weight, accuracy, timing, and technique (inside of the foot and on the ground).

PROGRESSIONS: (1) Remove one ball; middle players go 1v1, earning a point each time the ball is transferred across. (2) If 1v1 is successful, require outside player to dribble in and switch with the middle player after the pass.

BRILLIANT BASICS THAT APPLY: Receiving on the half-turn, scanning to see teammates, quality first touch, accurate and timely passing, body positioning for control, and using proper foot surfaces for passing.

3 goal game (15 mins)

OUTLINE/INSTRUCTIONS: 6v6 game with one goalkeeper covering three goals. Teams try to score in an empty goal while focusing on playing away from pressure, moving off the ball, and using proper receiving and passing techniques.

SET-UP: 6v6 game, one goalkeeper covering all three goals, wide field allowing for space to play away from pressure.

COACHING POINTS: (Technical) Receiving on the half-turn with hips open, executing passes with proper weight, accuracy, and timing. (Tactical) Maintain width and depth, create angles and support behind the ball, and play into empty space away from pressure.

PROGRESSIONS: Encourage one-touch or two-touch play, limit space to increase pressure, or add point bonuses for switching play effectively.

BRILLIANT BASICS THAT APPLY: Receiving on the half-turn, quality first touch, accurate and timely passing, scanning to read space and teammates, body positioning for support, and movement off the ball.