Football/Soccer Session (Beginner): Recognizing Space Warm Up

Recognizing Space

Recognizing the Space Warm Up Game

20x20 grid with smaller 6x6 grid in the middle

Equipment: Cones, bibs, balls (optional)

This is a good warm up to utilize when the session focuses on breaking lines, playing into targets, or dribbling to penetrate

1. Attacking players outside grid, defenders inside grid. Safe zones for the attackers are outside of the large grid and inside of the small grid. Defenders not allowed outside of the large grid or inside of the small grid.

 a. Defenders holding bibs. Attackers trying to get inside the small grid and then back outside of the large grid without being tagged. If defender tags the attacker, defender drops the penny and becomes attacker. Player tagged must pick up the penny before becoming the defender. 

Coaching Points:

1. Attacking players can move around the outside to move defenders

2. Once recognizing the opening, can attacking players quickly explode into the space created, change direction and get back out of the grid.

3. Attackers must be patient to find the opening, but once it is open, must exploit immediately, no hesitation.

4. Change of direction and speed to avoid defenders

Progression if players are capable: Add a ball for every player.