Football/Soccer Session (Beginner): U6 Fundamentals Week 6

Octopus

Dribbling

Organization:

Set up a 22 x 16 yard area.

Procedure:

Have all the children and their parents line up with their toes on the white line Explain that they are all fishies, and the coaches/facilitators are octopus. The children must run from one end of the half to the other without being tagged by the octopus. If they do, they become a seaweed and must stand with their parent and attempt to tag other fish. ** Note ** Since children are so young they do not have to become seaweed, a coach can also come and release them as fish again.

Progression: Parents do not need to be involved if children are comfortable.

Emphasis: Heads up, keep running, and have FUN!

Mini-Game

Organization:

6 players spread out inside a 22 X 16 yard area.

Parents outline the parameter of the field.

Procedure:

Players engage in a 3 v 3 mini-game.

Facilitator should have extra balls on hand to throw out when a ball goes out a play.

Progression: Use several soccer balls at one time (up to 3).

Emphasis: Heads up. Keep moving. Having FUN and trying your best!

Additional Notes: Involve your parents at this age group. Ask the question, "Hello parents, would you all mind helping me out by standing along the parameter of the field? This will help move the game along while keeping the children engaged." Say, "If a ball goes out of play please either roll or tap it back in for the players to continue playing. Act as a "side board," like in hockey."

You can also ask the players to go and retrieve their parents that way everyone is on the field when you ask. This makes the game move along much smoother, as well as allows you to act as a Game Leader instead of the "ball boy."