Football/Soccer Session (Beginner): Mini Kick - Hungry Hungry Hippos

Activity 1 (15 mins)

Organization:

1. 15x15 grid set up as shown

2. Multiple balls - placed in the center of the field of play

3. Gates – marked with cones

4. Separate players into 2 or 4 equal teams (depending on the amount of players you have)

Instructions:

1. Coach will begin the round by yelling the word "GO"

2. Players will run to the center, perform a pull back to get the ball out of the center grid.

3. Once the ball is out of the grid, the player will take a touch and shoot the ball towards their gate.

4. Once the ball has been shot, the next person in line will begin.

5. Players will continue to play until all the balls have been shot.

Coaching Points:

1. Angle of approach – off center

2. Head down at the point of contact

3. Non-kicking foot placed to side, slightly behind the ball

4. Ankle locked, toe down

5. Contact ball – will vary depending on target area

6. Contact foot – laces (instep)

7. Body weight forward, chest and knee over the ball at contact

8. Follow through landing on striking foot

Progressions:

1. Add a time limit

2. Take away balls to make less

3. Add a winner, first team to X goals wins

4. Add on a rule, i.e. right foot only, left foot only