How Players LearnMost of your coaching will take place before the practice. Most of coaching is setting up a good series of activities. The activities provide the environment in which players experience and learn soccer skills. Here are some other ideas to consider when coaching and setting up pratices.
REPETITION
Have players perform fundamental skills and movements over and over. Examples include any "skill drill" where players work in small groups.
PROGRESSIONS
Break a conceptinto stages or steps. Start with the most simple part, then progressively make the activity harder. Example: progress through the following activities: passing in pairs; in pairs while moving; in groups of 3; 3 vs. 1 in a square; 3 vs. 2 on goal, etc. Start with little or no pressure. Add defenders, limit space and time.
RESTRICTIONS OR CONDITIONS
Some skills or tactics are emphasized when players are required to perform them in the course of a drill or scrimmage. A "two-touch" scrimmage requires that each player is only allowed two touches before he/she passes or shoots.
FREEZING PLAY
As players are performing a drill or game, coach yells "freeze" or "stop" then explains a concept or makes a point. Coach quickly intervenes. See the back of Tactical Games of Coaching Cards for suggestions on teachable moments.
PLAYER ANALYSIS
At the end of 5 or 10 minutes of play, bring team together and let them analyze what happened. Coach asks, "How did it go? What did we do well? What do we need to work on?" Help players solve problems on their own. Have them avoid criticizing eachother or themselves.
SIMPLIFY INSTRUCTIONS (DON'T OVER-COACH)
Learning takes time. Be realistic. Encourage when appropriate. Communicate only one idea at a time. (The back of each Coaching Card has suggestions.)
HOMEWORK
Give players specific assignments to accomplish by the enxt practice. Examples: dribbling moves, juggling, ball control exercises, fitness training, etc. Choose a player(s) to perform an assignment for the rest of the group.
VIDEO AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS
Objective feedback is a useful resource for players and coaches. Statistics are a particularly useful way to track player development. (Good passes, shots on goal, defensive tackles won, etc.) Be creative. Use volunteers to help record statistics. Track players for the whole season.
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