Hey thats a humuorous start guess you don't know the answer either. Actually I have bucket loads of ideas and facts just wanted to see if anyone will go out on a limb and voice their views first so I can respond. Gauging from the response (or lack of them) most people on forums wait to get involved in trivial, trash talking baloney about nothing important, instead of a relevant, sensible, more to the point logical topic, which is the essence of football. I'm sure we will warm up and get things moving so like usual I will get everyone's minds ticking.
The following is information provided by the Global training system which is the training methologies used by FNSW, Central Coast Mariners Elite Academies and myself. It is targeted at grassreoots age groups 6-9 and there are a lot of variances that can be used to create more intensity for players with greater ability for eg . Elite training groups. I consider it vital that coaches are themselves technically proficient in being able to deliver the required skills for players to learn, otherwise they should be resigned to the fact that they can not move a players development forward. I guess there are two options for these coaches, learn from coaches who have that ability and start practicing yourself or stick to basic grassroots coaching where it is more appropriate to you.
Training Factors
The duration of the session is to be 45 - 75 minutes in length with short drink breaks every 10 minutes. The session is to be highly dynamic and motivating for all players. Quick changes of activities and clear simple coaching points must be adhered to. Cue words, self talk and step by step approach to the breakdown of skills are important. Repetition of exercise and drills from week to week with new skills added once players have demonstrated competency.
Session Outcomes
1. Fun games that increase coordination and spatial awareness
2. Fun games that improves social interaction
3. Gross motor activities that develop sound movement patterns
4. Ball Control Exercises that improve both feet and comfort on the ball
5. Introduction of passing skills
6. Introduction of receiving skills
Technical Topics
Passing (instep / push pass: 5-10 m)
Receiving (Sole / inside)
1 v 1 Games 4 goals
For players in this age group the focus should be on FUN and coaches should concentrate on creating a positive learning environment.
The diamond formation is a basic representation of where players can position themselves in order to maximize space (make space bigger) and provide angles of support.
Coaches must consider;
1. That any system, tactic or team is only as good as the individuals that form it.
2. That individual technical development is the foundation for future team success.
3. That players learn skills through correct instruction by coaches who understand the principles of learning to guarantee players improve in each session each year until mastery of the sport is achieved.
4. That players enjoy playing the game. If they enjoy what they do, they will play more often and with greater purpose. This leads to improvement and therefore a greater enjoyment of the game and so the cycle continues.
5. There is no real position in 4 v 4. Coaches should encourage angles of support (right / left / in front) and mobility (pass and move)
6. Creativity and flair starts at a very young age. It can be either developed or equally destroyed. Ensure that you develop a team culture that encourages creativity and is supported by parents and supporters to the team.
Create a positive LEARNING environment
Focus on FUN
Provide basic STRUCTURE
Don't worry about WINNING
