28 Apr

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? You may think I’ve gone nuts but it’s necessary for you as the game’s requirements have changed drastically. This is what I am referring to. The sports ground should have a length of about 100 yards and width of about 60 yards. 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.

It also requires realignment of roles and responsibilities when three players i.e. forward, midfielder, and defender are added to make a third dimension. It implies bringing the newly added players into set plays, an extended role of the goalkeeper, and a series of system plays.

Soccer exercises should emphasize on the technical skills more in relation to developing individual skills. These include long passing, heading, and individual movement with the ball. Now that the players are tall and strong, they’ll be able to make long passes that were earlier not possible.

This ability of players brings in loads of diversity to their attacks. Thus, you need to continuously motivate your kids to maintain the custody of the ball while still making long passes. There are a few benefits which are given below.

1. The capability of the players to carry out long passes helps them change fields instantly. 2. Long passes also put the players in a position to cross the ball from wing positions therefore making it a bad tool.

Another skill that needs to be emphasized more at this level of soccer practice games is heading. Players in this age group are generally fearless about heading. You must make them realize that if they head the ball well, they will be able to retain the ball for longer durations and hence have more opportunities to score.

The range of individual movements for creating spaces with the ball should 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.

With the players maturing to this level, they develop the tendency to practice offensive tactics and use them as and when required. Opposite is the case when they are designated as defensive players.

Nonetheless, the players should keep in mind that they must be good at both the skills. By notifying them as defenders or offenders, you are simply ironing out things for the field.

Now that you are armed with this information, go ahead and encourage your players to start practicing soccer practice games in training sessions. These will make them skilled so as to handle any team at any point of time. If you would like more information on youth soccer, become a part of our youth soccer coaching program 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.

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