TRAINING

1. Technical Skills

Dribbling

Drills that focus on ball control, quick changes of direction, and using both feet.

• Example: Cone Dribbling Drill – Set up cones in a zig-zag pattern and have players dribble through them as quickly as possible while maintaining control.

Passing

Accuracy and timing are crucial for effective passing.

• Example: Short and Long Passing – Partner up players for short and long passing drills, emphasizing the use of both feet.

Shooting

Focus on different types of shots: instep drive, volleys, and chip shots.

• Example: Target Shooting – Place small targets in the goal (corners or specific zones) for players to aim for.

2. Tactical Understanding

Positioning

Explain positioning in various formations, how to move without the ball, and the importance of spacing.

Off-the-Ball Movement

How to make runs that create passing options for teammates.

Defensive Tactics

Focus on man-marking, zonal marking, and reading the game to intercept passes.

3. Fitness and Conditioning

Agility

Incorporate ladder drills, cone drills, and shuttle runs to build foot speed and agility.

Endurance

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) can mimic the stop-start nature of a soccer game.

Strength

Include core exercises (planks, squats) and lower body strength (lunges, calf raises) to improve power and balance.

4. Game-Specific Drills

Small-Sided Games

Set up 3v3, 4v4, or 5v5 games to work on team tactics and individual skills in a more realistic, match-like environment.

Transition Play

Create drills that focus on both offensive and defensive transitions (e.g., winning the ball back and then quickly attacking).

5. Mental Training

Focus and Decision-Making

Exercises to improve focus under pressure, such as decision-making drills where players must choose the right pass or move within a limited time.

Visualization Techniques

Help players imagine success in different game situations to build confidence.

Example Training Plan for a Session (60-90 minutes)

1. Warm-up (10-15 min): Light jogging, dynamic stretches, and ball touches.
2. Skill Work (20-25 min): Dribbling or passing drills.
3. Tactical Focus (15-20 min): Small-sided games, defensive drills, or offensive movement drills.
4. Conditioning (10-15 min): Agility or HIIT training.
5. Cool Down (5-10 min): Light jogging, stretching, and brief team discussion.

By mixing technical, tactical, and fitness drills into your sessions, you keep training well-rounded and engaging.

Contact Us

Call Us At: 818-339-5095