In context of Soccer practice games, you should see that by the time players turn 11, they should be made to play in a larger field? It’s okay if you feel I’ve lost my mind but you need to realize that the game of soccer now has very different demands. This is what I am referring to. The field should have a length and width of something like 100 yards and 60 yards respectively. The dimensions of the goal post should also be somewhat like 8 feet high and 24 feet wide. The soccer rules generally applicable at all levels are applicable at this level too.
A shift in the duties and roles becomes necessary, every time a third dimension is made by means of adding three more players i.e. the defender, forward and the midfielder. It suggests that the extra players will be employed in set plays, there’ll be a collection of system plays, and that the goalie’s role will be expanded.
Stress more on the technical skills in soccer exercises when you are developing kid’s individual skills. These consist of heading skills, individual movements of players, and long passing skills. Since the players in this scenario are sturdy and tall, it’ll be easy for them to make long passes not possible some time before.
Lots of variety gets added to the player’s attack because of this special ability. Therefore you must always encourage them to make the long passes without losing the possession of the ball. It has the following benefits.
1. The capability of the players to carry out long passes helps them change fields instantly. 2. Long passes also facilitate crossing the ball from wing positions which makes cross a rather suspicious tool.
Heading, is one skill that requires a special mention at this level of soccer practice games. Players of this age group have generally conquered most of their fear related to the skill of heading. You must make them understand that by accurately heading the ball, they will be able to retain the ball longer and hence have more opportunities to score.
The variety of single movements for creating spaces with the ball must spread out at this level. During the soccer drills, players should keep on exploring creative ways to change speed, direction, and level with the ball, along with developing their own tactics.
As the players mature to this level, they gain the tendency to practice offensive tactics and play as offensive players. Opposite is the case when they are designated as defensive players.
However, it’s necessary at this level that players realize that they have responsibilities of both offensive and defensive players. The purpose of electing them as defender or offender is merely to even out things on the field.
Since you are now aware of these things, encourage your players to start playing soccer practice games in sessions. These will help them develop skills to take on any team, anytime. To know more about youth soccer, be a part of our youth soccer coaching community that has a lot of articles, newsletters, videos, and other resources on youth soccer.
Andre Botelho is the author of “The Expert Youth Soccer Coaching Guide” and he’s a recognized expert in the subject of youth soccer coaching. Learn how to explode your players’ skills and make coaching sessions fun in less than 29 days! Download your free pdf guide at: Soccer Training Tips.
Share and Enjoy:
These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.