Defense - U8+ - Penalty Area Clear

Create a 10 X 20 grid in front of goal extending out towards midfield. Place two defenders inside this grid. Place the remaining players outside the grid, each with a ball. The players outside the grid take turns serving the ball into the penalty area preferably in the air.

The players inside the grid must clear the ball outside the grid. The players need to clear the ball to the outside of the field, and not into the middle. Ensure that the defenders get to the ball on the first or second bounce (preferably before the bounce).

Passing / Shooting - U10+ - Cross and Shoot

Start with two groups of players 20-30 feet from goal; "Crossers" on one side of the field, "Shooters" on the other side. Coach is between both groups.

Coach passes the ball ahead to crosser who is running on to it. Crosser one-touches it down the line, and on 2^nd touch, crosses to shooter running into goal scoring position. Shooter should try to finish on one touch.

After the kids have gotten the hang of the drill, add a defender who starts where the coach is and runs after the crosser to try to prevent the cross.

AYSO Indoor Soccer

Our area has indoor soccer for AYSO teams starting the first week of November and going into December. Games are played at the Ogden Weber ATC. The season consists of 8 games. For a player to be eligible to play, he or she must be registered with AYSO. Divisions are U7 – U14. U14 is a coed division. Cost is $310 per team. Registration deadline is October 20, 2007. Please see the Coaches Corner web page for more details.

Attacking, Defending - U5, U6, U8 - Mad House

Divide the team into two equal groups. Place each group on opposite goal lines, with each player in one of the groups having a soccer ball.

When the coach yells “go”, the group with the balls is on the attack and the other group defends. Points are scored by shooting the ball into the goal at the opposite end of the field. If a player in the defending group gets possession of a ball, she goes on the attack and tries to score in the other teams’ goal. The group that scores the most goals wins.

Note that when a player has scored her ball, she should help the rest of her teammates score. Players without balls should get open for passes, or defend the goal. Play without boundaries so the only time a ball is out of play is when it is in a goal.

Passing – U10+ - Point Zones

Using cones, layout a 20 X 40 yard grid with a 5-yard “Point Zone” at each end. Three or four attackers start with the ball in one of the Point Zones, and three or four defenders start in the other Point Zone.

Attackers try to dribble and pass the ball into the Point Zone. Defenders try to gain possession of the ball. Points can only be scored when an attacker passes the ball to a teammate located in the Point Zone. When a point is scored, the defending team gets possession of the ball and becomes the attackers.

Variations: Play one-touch. Allow the ball to be dribbled into the Point Zone. Start the game in the center of the grid and allow either team to score in either point zone.

This is a fun game that teaches the kids to make controlled passes in order to get points. Play so that if the ball is not stopped by a player in the Point Zone, the point does not count, and the other team gets possession of the ball.

Dribbling – U5, U6, U8 – Bank Robbery

Create a grid about twenty feet by twenty feet. Put all of the balls in the middle of the grid, with the players on the outside of the grid (one or two on a side). When the coach yells "Bank Robbery", all the players run to the center to collect a ball and dribble to the spot where they started. The players continue retrieving balls one at a time, until all of the balls have been retrieved. When all of the balls have been collected, the player who has collected the most balls wins.

This is a fun game that teaches younger kids to dribble, turn while dribbling, and stop the ball.

Passing – U10+ - 4 Cone 4 Person Passing

Set up a grid that is approximately 15 X 15 yards. Divide the team into pairs. Each pair has one soccer ball. Place one player at each end of the grid. Create a 4 cone square in the center of the grid (no more than 5 yards square). The object of the game is for each pair to pass their ball between the cones in the center of the grid in each direction. The first team to complete 5 passes that go between all 8 cones is declared the winner.

Variations: Play one touch. Place a time restriction on the length of the game. Have the players pass with the left and right foot. Have the players strike the ball with the outside of the left and right foot.

This game teaches accurate passing while also impressing on the players the need for quick release of the ball.

Sept. 8 Game Location Changes

Our games on September 8th have changed location. U5, U6 and U10 games will be played at Grandview Park (3815 Jackson Ave). U8 games will be played at Lions Park (1220 23rd Street). The game times remain the same for all divisions except for U10. All remaining games will be played at Mt. Ogden Park (3144 Taylor Ave.).

Dribbling – U5, U6, U8 - Alligator

Setup the field so there are 2 end lines approximately 20 yards apart. The coach or a designated player starts in the middle as the 'Alligator'. All of the other players have a ball on one end of the field. The object of the game is for the players to dribble from one end of the field to the other without allowing the Alligator to kick their ball out of play. If a player's ball is kicked out of the field of play, he is then added to the Alligator group. Continue until all players have had their balls kicked out of the field of play.

This drill teaches dribbling while paying attention to the other players on the field. It helps the players dribble with eyes up and not constantly on the ball.

Passing – U8+ - Soccer Baseball

Setup cones in a square representing bases. One player stands at each base. The catcher kicks the ball to first base, first base traps and kicks to second base, and so on until the ball is controlled by the catcher again. The runner starts running opposite of the way the ball is being kicked as soon as the first kick is made. If the runner makes it home before the ball does, the runner gets a point; otherwise the team in the outfield gets the point. Rotate so the runner is now the catcher, catcher is first base, etc. and third base gets in line to run.

This drill teaches accurate passing and trapping because if one of the players on the bases does not make an accurate pass or receive the ball appropriately, the runner will beat the ball to home.

Passing – U10+ - Soccer Baseball

Setup cones in a square representing bases. Setup two cones between 3^rd base and home; these cones represent a goal. Divide the team into two teams – one will be playing outfield and the other will be 'batting'. The batter kicks the ball from home plate anywhere in the field of play (no foul balls), and then starts running around the bases. The outfield has to retrieve the ball, and score a goal before the runner makes it to home. If the batter makes it home, the batting team gets the point; if the outfield scores a goal before the batter makes it to home, the outfield gets the point. Let all of the batters have a turn and then have the teams switch.

This is a fun drill that teaches the kids to work as a team. They will learn after a couple of batters make it around the bases that in order to score the goal, they need to pass to one another in order to be able to be quicker than the batter. The drill also helps the batter with leg strength (best to get the ball as far from home as possible), and teaches to kick to an area (kick where the outfield isn't).

Attacking/Defense – U12+ - One-on-One Ladder

In the One-on-One Ladder many one-on-one games take place simultaneously. Create as many mini-fields as there are pairs of players. Number the pairs-these will be your divisions. As the partners play one-on-one, they keep score of the goals they make. When you call time, the winners of each division stay where they are, and the loser moves to the next lower division (except for the last division, where the winner goes up, and the loser goes down). The appeal of the One-on-One Ladder is that the games are short and intense, and there are immediate winners and losers. Let the games go for maybe a minute, a minute and a half, and then you change them over. There's always movement because as players win and lose, they move on to play other players.

The Baffled Parent's Guide to Coaching Youth Soccer (Bobby Clark) Pg. 104 – One-on-One Ladder (21)

Have the players warm up to this drill by teaching "shielding" of the ball on offense, and proper positioning on defense. As the players become more comfortable with dribbling while being defended, this game will give them many good opportunities to try out their moves.

Coaches’ Meetings

We had our coaches meetings today. We had a surprisingly good turnout considering the Labor Day weekend. Thanks, coaches for taking the time to attend. I hope that you found some of the information beneficial.

One correction that needs to be made to the U8 Coaches agenda is that the U8 teams play with a size 3 ball, not size 4 as I had listed.

U12+ Coaches Meeting Agenda

AYSO Philosophies:

Everyone Plays, Balanced Teams, Open Registration, Positive Coaching, Good Sportsmanship

1. All coaches must fill out volunteer form (http://eayso.org).
   
2. All coaches must complete Safe Haven Training (http://aysotraining.org). You will need your AYSO ID in order to complete this.
   
3. Game Specifics:
   
   1. U12 - 9 players on the field at a time – 15 minute quarters.
      
   2. U14 – 11 players on the field at a time – 17 minute quarters.
      
   3. U19 – 11 players on the field at a time – 45 minute halves (free substitutions).
      
4. Ball size:
   
   1. U12 – Size 4.
      
   2. U14+ - Size 5.
      
5. All kids need to wear shin guards at each practice and in each game.
   
6. Coaches need to bring the player registration forms to each practice and game.
   
7. Game time is game time.
   
8. If kids haven't registered for AYSO, they don't play.
   
9. All players need to play ½ of the game every game. No player should play the full game until all players have played at least ¾ of the game. Coaches should come to the games prepared (lineups, etc) so that all players get equal playing time.
   
10. Goals for this age group:
    
    1. Positioning: the kids may feel more comfortable at one position at these ages. Try to allow the kids to play where they are most comfortable in order to develop them more fully at that position. Players should have the opportunity to try other positions if they wish.
       
    2. Understand team play.
       
       1. Passing
          
       2. Moving without the ball
          
       3. Field awareness (defensive and offensive)
          
    3. Heading – U12 is the first age-group that should be learning this skill.
       
    4. Fun!
       
11. Try not to coach too much during the games. The kids will learn soccer best by making their own decisions, and not being told everything to do during the game. Practice is the place for instruction; games should be the player's chance to show what has been learned.
    
12. Have a parent's meeting (can be at the beginning or end of the first practice) where you explain any rules that you may have.
    
    1. Kids should be on-time and ready to play soccer at practice (dressed appropriately).
       
    2. Have the kids bring an appropriately sized ball to practice.
       
13. Training: Offered U6, U8, U10, U12. Will be offering Intermediate training this year.
    
14. Use the website: http://aysor351.org.
    
15. Coaches Blog: http://ayso351.blogspot.com. I will be posting tips, drills and games on the site weekly.
    
16. Indoor soccer in our area in November (U8-U16). Check the website for details.
    

U8, U10 Coaches Meeting Agenda

AYSO Philosophies:

Everyone Plays, Balanced Teams, Open Registration, Positive Coaching, Good Sportsmanship

1. All coaches must fill out volunteer form (http://eayso.org).
   
2. All coaches must complete Safe Haven Training (http://aysotraining.org). You will need your AYSO ID in order to complete this.
   
3. Game Specifics:
   
   1. U8 - 6 players on the field at a time – 8 minute quarters.
      
   2. U10 – 7 players on the field at a time – 12 minute quarters.
      
4. Ball size.
1. U8 - Size 3.
2. U10 - Size 4.
   
5. We use goal keepers in these age groups. Offside rule enforced for U10 only.
   
6. All kids need to wear shin guards at each practice and in each game.
   
7. Coaches need to bring the player registration forms to each practice and game.
   
8. Practices should only last about 1 hour, once a week.
   
9. Game time is game time.
   
10. If kids haven't registered for AYSO, they don't play.
    
11. All players need to play ½ of the game every game. No player should play the full game until all players have played at least ¾ of the game. Coaches should come to the games prepared (lineups, etc) so that all players get equal playing time.
    
12. Goals for this age group:
    
    1. Positioning: allow all players to try each position. Players should not be locked into a particular position at this age.
       
    2. Start understanding team play.
       
       1. Passing
          
       2. Less bunching
          
    3. Passing – Instep kick.
       
    4. Passing – Inside of foot push pass.
       
    5. Trapping – Inside of foot, thigh and chest.
       
    6. Fun!
       
13. Try not to coach too much during the games. The kids will learn soccer best by making their own decisions, and not being told everything to do during the game. Practice is the place for instruction; games should be the player's chance to show what has been learned.
    
14. Have a parent's meeting (can be at the beginning or end of the first practice) where you explain any rules that you may have.
    
    1. Kids should be on-time and ready to play soccer at practice (dressed appropriately).
       
    2. Have the kids bring an appropriately sized ball to practice.
       
15. Training: Offered U6, U8, U10, U12. Will be offering Intermediate training this year.
    
16. Use the website: http://aysor351.org.
    
17. Coaches Blog: http://ayso351.blogspot.com. I will be posting tips, drills and games on the site weekly.
    
18. Indoor soccer in our area in November (U8-U16). Check the website for details.
    

U5, U6 Coaches Meeting Agenda

AYSO Philosophies:

Everyone Plays, Balanced Teams, Open Registration, Positive Coaching, Good Sportsmanship

1. All coaches must fill out volunteer form (http://eayso.org).
   
2. All coaches must complete Safe Haven Training (http://aysotraining.org). You will need your AYSO ID in order to complete this.
   
3. 3 players on the field at a time – 5 minute quarters.
   
4. Ball size 3.
   
5. No Goalies.
   
6. All kids need to wear shin guards at each practice and in each game.
   
7. Coaches need to bring the player registration forms to each practice and game.
   
8. Practices should only last about ½ hour, once a week.
   
9. Game time is game time.
   
10. If kids haven't registered for AYSO, they don't play.
    
11. All players need to play ½ of the game every game. No player should play the full game until all players have played at least ¾ of the game. Coaches should come to the games prepared (lineups, etc) so that all players get equal playing time.
    
12. Goals for this age group:
    
    1. Understand offense and defense: score on one side of field; don't let other team score on the other side of field.
       
    2. Kick the ball using the instep kick (laces on shoe).
       
    3. Dribble the ball (try to keep as close to the body as possible).
       
    4. Out-of-bounds and throw-ins.
       
    5. Fun!
       
13. Try not to coach too much during the games. The kids will learn soccer best by making their own decisions, and not being told everything to do during the game. Practice is the place for instruction; games should be the player's chance to show what has been learned.
    
14. Have a parent's meeting (can be at the beginning or end of the first practice) where you explain any rules that you may have.
    
    1. Kids should be on-time and ready to play soccer at practice (dressed appropriately).
       
    2. Have the kids bring an appropriately sized ball to practice.
       
15. Training: Offered U6, U8, U10, U12. Will be offering Intermediate training this year.
    
16. Use the website: http://aysor351.org.
    
17. Coaches Blog: http://ayso351.blogspot.com. I will be posting tips, drills and games on the site weekly.
    

Coaches Meetings

The coaches' meetings have been rescheduled for Saturday September 1st in order to accommodate the U12 coach training that is being offered on August 25th. The meetings will be held at the Mt. Ogden Park Bowery. Please plan on attending! You will receive your team registration papers at this meeting, and we will discuss age-specific issues. I will also need everyone to bring 2 copies of their volunteer registration forms (signed) to this meeting.
The schedule is as follows:
U5,U6 - 8am
U8,U10 - 9am
U12+ - 10am

August Coaching Clinics

Three coaching clinics have been planned for the month of August. We encourage all coaches to attend one or more of these clinics. The clinics are taught by AYSO certified instructors. All coaches should be certified for the age-group that they are coaching. All of the clinics are going to be held at Uintah Elementary. Please come ready to participate (wear comfortable clothes), and bring water.

The schedule is as follows:
U6,U8,U10 - August 18 (Saturday) 9am-12pm
U6,U8,U10 - August 23 (Thursday) 6pm-9pm
U12 - August 25 (Saturday) 9am-2pm

Please note that those coaches wanting to take the intermediate coaches' training, need to have completed the U12 coaching course.

Age-Group Coordinator Meeting Minutes

Today was the age-group coordinator meeting. We have a very motivated group of coordinators this year who seem to be willing to do their best to make evenly balanced teams. We are leaving registration open for a couple of weeks, so we have decided to make an even number of teams in each age group while trying to leave room on each team for late registrations. The numbers that we are shooting for are as follows:

Age Group	# Teams
U5 Boys	10
U5&U6 Girls (Combined)	10
U6 Boys	8
U8 Boys	10
U8 Girls	8
U10 Boys	6
U10 Girls	6
U12 Boys	2
U12 Girls	3
U14 Boys	1
U14 Girls	1
U19 Coed	1

The teams will need to be made and the coaches identified by August 18^th. All coaches need to fill out a volunteer form on http://eayso.org, and bring it to the coaches meeting on August 25^th. Age-Group Coordinators should attend this meeting. All coaches are required to have completed their Safe Haven training this year. The coaches will receive their rosters, registration forms, and schedules at the coaches meeting.

Teaching The Game To Kids

Teaching The Game To Kids
AYSO National Coaching Program
November 10, 2003

All coaches must be able to create an opportunity to evaluate a player’s ability to execute a certain skill or task so that what training is required can be achieved.
More simply put, at what level is the player performing a particular skill?
One of the best ways to evaluate the level of competency is to use Free Play.
Good coaches use free play to observe a player’s capabilities.
Free play describes the condition where individuals play without restrictions on time or space.
Players are given general directions on time or space.
Players are given general directions on what they should attempt to accomplish and then left on their own.
The players should play hard and stop when rest is warranted.
Free play allows players to develop natural abilities.
Free play avoids wasting time in organizing lines, capturing wandering players, etc.
During free play, players avoid others, seek open space, and become more aware of the action around them.
A coach’ observational powers will increase as they are forced to isolate individual action in a group.
Provide an environment for teaching solutions (options) to match problems.

Typical methods include:
Training Games (drills) are used to duplicate match conditions.
A training game (drill) requires organization of the players to repeatedly execute a specific skill or tactic, or combination thereof.
As a coach you must think static and progress too dynamic as quickly as possible.

When playing games:
Age and skill appropriate
A reason to play (tactical objective)
A person or team who finish first
Manageable groups (number of groups)
Restrictions (grids, touch, time)
Consequences
Establishes a match-type situation
Coaching points and corrections
Reevaluation
Able to transfer training to the game
The coach must always remember to go from the simple to the complex, communication in a language appropriate to the are of the players they ate working with.

Teaching and Coaching Techniques
So now you are ready to teach.
There are steps that are required that a coach must follow in order to be an effective teacher (coach):
State the tactical objective of what you are trying to accomplish.
Demonstrate the skill or the drill.
Involve new players let the players try it.
Get all remaining players involved.
Analyze level of play and skills being used by players.
Evaluate level of effort, commitment to training.
Are the training groups balanced?
Circulate and correct (use assistant coaches to supervise play and keep the organization going).
Communicate individual instructions, using concepts of psychological motivation (remember they are kids, don’t embarrass them).

Summary
A coach should use a systematic approach to help in communicating with and training players.
Training (practice) is an attempt to duplicate a match, in a learning environment.
The goal is to build up to match conditions.
Each segment of training should be communicated in a clear and positive manner.
Feedback is provided to the players on an individual basis.
If a coach uses a systematic approach to training players will assimilate the material in a rapid and efficient manner.

Welcome

Welcome to the AYSO Region 351 coaches blog! I will be posting tips and drills hopefully on a weekly basis here. Feel free to comment on the effectiveness of the drills or post you own drills.