By Mike Smith I was a ball chaser. I was cut from my middle school soccer team 3 times – even though I was the fastest player on the team ( well, at tryouts anyway). This was back in the 80’s near Washington D.C., which actually had some well developed soccer programs for back then. Even
Continue reading
By Mike Smith “But no one is there Coach!” I have had countless players shout this to me as I encouraged them to flag the ball. The players are focused on their team mates and “ playing to feet”, etc… and don’t always understand how their choices in ball movement not only impact their team mates,
Continue reading
By Sean Reed - Objective This session focuses on forward runs, breaking the lines to create goal-scoring opportunities. Set Up • 2 teams (5v5 upwards) with 2x GK • Pitch is 25-30yds wide, depending on the number of players • 18yds each GK area and middle area 25-30yds • Ball starts with GK, one player
Continue reading
By Alex Trukan Number 9’s position is usually associated with playing as high as possible and looking to threaten centre backs at all times. With the emergence of a ‘false nine’ position and its’ benefits, even the traditional type number 9’s became more flexible and looking to receive deeper into the centre of the pitch.
Continue reading
By Alex Trukan Forward runs in behind the back line can pose a major threat to any defence. One of the most important defending techniques, however, very often overlooked and ignored is tracking runners. Effective decision making on when to do it as well as execution will prevent many opportunities to create chances. It is
Continue reading