Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): Warm-up - scanning

Screen 1

Set-up

Unopposed, around 4 players in a 15 x 15 yard area. One tennis ball (ideally, if not use another football) and one football. The player holding the tennis ball will be the next receiver of a pass of the football. However, before receiving the football they will throw the tennis ball to another player who will next catch the ball.

Would initially suggest players remain in fixed position until they get the hang of it and then progress to moving into a different pocket of space once they've passed the football.

Coaching points

This game forces decision making & scanning before playing a pass - and even in advance of receiving the ball.

Would also encourage shouting the name of the player prior to throwing the tennis ball, along with constant scanning.

Progression - main progression is to achieve the fastest possibly speed of passing the football around without breaking down the aspect that requires tennice ball to be thrown/caught.

Also other basics - body shape, first touch, playing a pass correctly.

Screen 3

Set-up

3 v 3 with mini goals set at th corner area of touchline. Pitch size c23m x 15m. End of each pitch marked with an end zone, where only one player from the defending team is allowed - note the player doesn't have to stay there all the time. Also doesnt need to be an assigned player as can be dynamically rotated as play continues (if more than one player goes in a penalty is awarded). Also no attacking players allowed in the end zones). When play needs to restart, its always a kick in.

Coaching points

The layout encourages players to take advantage of gaps towards opponents goal. Gaps will only exist briefly and chances of success are increased by players scanning and being aware that they exist immediately on/before receiving possession.