Tips On Soccer Practice Games
Has it ever occurred to you as to how many different kinds of benefits soccer practice games offer? Along with the benefit of getting in touch with the ball more often, it lets the players work out several other exercises.
In soccer training, a 4v4 small-sided game is set up in a small area and is beneficial not only to the coach but also to the players. The coach is in a position to observe all players on one side since they are only 4 in count. The players get to play with the ball for a maximum time. Besides, it lets the players practice the method of distribution, collecting the ball, looking up and taking decisions fast.
It is the duty of the coach to be present on the field and encourage the kids to use this process. Initially the kids may not get adapted to it quickly. For example, they might try to apply the usual technique of kick and run. This is natural. However, you will need to teach them the various ways they can employ the process of distribution.
You can initially use a diagram for making the kids understand the process. Next a demonstration of the same is also required. With the passage of time, the players will start liking it and adapt to it. This way the kids will be in a position to use the space in a best possible manner when they are having the ball with the use of this process.
This brings a sort of structure into the team’s play. This will also eventually lead to players developing a lot of skills on their own and be able to control the pace of the game. You must know that this process of distribution is applicable only to players who have made some advancement in their training.
The kids who have just started playing soccer should not get involved in soccer practice games. Their soccer drills must still concentrate on playing freely without a lot of guidance and rules. They need not worry about techniques but simply have fun.
When you teach players the process of distribution, it also makes sense to teach them to maintain balance with the ball. The player who has the ball must keep looking up and also take a decision on where to pass the ball.
You must teach the players to create adequate space around the player with the ball so that there is sufficient room to pass the ball. A 4v4 game is ideal to teach such tactics.
Also, the coach must teach his players about various positions such as forward, defender, right flank, left flank. The kids should work on understanding these positions and the best method is that the coach calls these positions by name during practice.
You must exercise patience with the kids when they are learning these exercises. The kids may take a little time in getting used to these things.
So move on and make your kids learn these skills through soccer practice games. For more tips and tricks on a 4v4 game, be a part of our youth soccer coaching community that has several 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.
