Football/Soccer Session (Difficult): Initial formation- 2-3-3

Screen 1

Formation- 2-3-3

Playing a 2-3-3 gives the team balance and shape. This shape provides the visual of how we have been training and gives us proper balance defensively, as well as strength in the attack. Adding passing angles will provide visualization of places to play but in doing so, I do not want to take away the individuality of the game. There is " NO WRONG", this is just a template so the kids have a concept of what we are looking for.

The players will have the ultimate decision once they have the ball at their feet. Growing and developing as a player entails their decision making. Once again, there is "NO WRONG", only things we can learn from and grow. Giving the game to the kids and allowing them to see it through their eyes is one of the most critical lessons we can give them. We, as parents and a staff, must be cognizant of this and allow this to happen. I can only ask that we are all patient. We will push the buttons when they need to be pushed, otherwise they will tune us out and coaching points will not be accepted, only ignored.

Screen two will provide some passing sequences which we can build upon after the next session. We would like to provide this for the parents so they understand what we are trying to accomplish and what we are wanting the boys to see/do; Otherwise, there will be coaching from the sideline.

Understand there is no one way that is better or more effective than another. This is a template of options which are based mostly out of triangles. The buildup starts out of the back, and if we choose to play through the lines, these are the most effective ways. Going inside out, even under pressure, will squeeze the opponent and allow space on the outside to receive the ball and advance the play into the offensive third. All of this is geared towards maintaining possession while advancing forward. We call this, “Possession with a Purpose.” When the ball is turned over, it becomes an immediate chase to either win the ball back or create enough havoc that the opponent releases the ball and allows us to regain possession. Please take notice of the numbers near each position. I want to get to the point where we can speak in general terms and use numbers as our means of communication for the players.

Keep in mind that this is going to be a marathon, not a sprint. We are going to earn results, not cheat the game to get them. We are young and in a very important developmental stage. Patience and consistency will lead to better performance over time. No one here is getting looked at by any schools anytime in the near future. Let’s give them a future in this game by doing it right.