Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Control (Start Time: 2023-08-31 17:00:00)

Technical (15 mins)

Pitch is 35x25.

Within the pitch set up a 20x20 square. Within this square, set up a 10x10 central box.

12 players split into 2 groups of 6, 6 players start around the outside of the area and 6 will start within a 10x10 central box marked out with blue cones. 

Start with the players in the middle zone running out and receiving a pass from any outside player - once they receive the ball they play it back to the player they received the pass from then runback into the central zone before then moving out to receive a pass from a different outside player 

Rotate players after 60-seconds. 

Mechanics of control:

- On toes

- Eye on the ball

- Get in line with the ball

- Decide and present surface towards ball

- Relax on impact

Progressions:

- Players receive the pass and then turn with the ball and pass it to a different outside player before going back to the central zone - coaches to provide demonstrations of how the players may receive the ball (Inside, Outside, Sole) and how they may control the ball into the space to help them to turn. 

- Players can vary service into player to ensure ball can be controlled with various body parts. 

- Players can use hands to pass the ball to allow varied control options if pass with feet is unsuccessful. 

SSG (30 mins)

Pitch is 35x25.

6v6 game.

2 x 14 minute halves - 2 minute drinks break halfway.

Game is free play for first 5 minutes.

For the remaining 9 minutes of the first half players in possession of the ball can not run with he ball - this will allow them the time to concentrate on the mechanics of their control - defenders can apply pressure but can not tackle the player in possession. The player in possessions teammates must concentrate on their movement off the ball, finding space for a pass. If the defending team intercepts a pass they gain possession.

Following a 2 minute drinks break (during which the coach will discuss the mechanics of control again, and provide demonstrations if needed) the players will play the second half. This half will be free play throughout, with the restriction of not being able to run removed. 

Progressions:

- Increase/decrease playing area depending on players ability and energy levels.

- For players with good standard of control they can be asked to play 2 touch, looking to turn on receiving the ball on their first touch then running with ball with a big push out on their second touch or find a pass.

- Introduce minimum amount of 5 passes before scoring.

Regressions:

- Remove 2 touch condition if struggling.

- Reduce the minimum amount of passes to 3 if 5 is too difficult.