Skills Development Programme Coaching Manual 7 9 Years

Irish FA
Skill Development Programme

7 - 9 Years
(Week 1 - Week 6)
The Coaching Standard
Start and end the practice with fun
Ensure you have a ball to each player when possible or relevant
Simple organisation and lay out of the session
Simple communication/rules of the practice
No “bus queue” of players waiting to play/shoot etc
Develop individuals, not teams
Inspire players with the session, your personality, energy and enthusiasm
Don’t over coach, give the players “free” playing time in the session
Give the players questions to answer and choices in technique and decision making
Encourage attacking football
Encourage players to work hard
Smile and have fun!
Irish fa Skills Development Programme (7-9 Years) The Coaching Standard

Warm Up Activity - Flush the Toilet (Agility)
Aims
To develop control of the body in a dynamic environment (move quickly and efficiently, start, stop and start again whilst maintaining stability)
To develop combination of movements by using good balance, co-ordination, range of movement, strength and speed
Area
20 yards x 20 yards depending on numbers.
Numbers
10 - 20 players can be accommodated in this drill.
Layout
Two to four players are nominated to be catchers.
Rules
The catchers must tag as many of the other players as possible. If a player is tagged
they must stand still with their arm out. If players run outside the grid they should
stand still with their arm out inside the grid.
The other players can free them by pushing down on their arm to ‘flush the toilet’. The
catching players should be changed every few minutes.
Development
The grid can also be split to create two halves with a number of catchers in each half.
Coaching points
Focus on how participants change direction, encourage them to push off the outside foot and change direction in one movement. Watch their body balance and general movement pat-
terns, ability to dodge/change direction - ensure the base is not too wide to assist with the push off. Play attention also to the participants head movement and ability to assess what is
going on around them.
Irish fa Skills Development Programme (7-9 Years) Week One - Dribbling & RWTB
BALL WORK - Mastery (Toe Taps Roll Over)
Aims
To develop confidence, touch and coordination on the ball with both feet
To develop an instinctive ability to move the ball in relation to stimulus
Area
20 yards x 20 yards depending on size of numbers.
Numbers
Layout
Coloured cones are spread out evenly inside the grid and the players are asked to
stand at a cone. There should be more cones than players. The variety of coloured
cones is determined by the coach but 2-3 different colours should be sufficient.
Rules
Players are encouraged to dribble through the grid moving from free cone to free cone.
Players are not allowed to queue waiting for a cone but instead should keep on the
move with their head up and move to nearest free cone.
Development
The drill can be progressed so that players are moving to cones in a sequence. For
example blue - red - yellow - blue. Coaches can also look for players to perform a
different task from cone to cone. For example toe taps from the blue cone, sole rolls
from red cone and running with the ball from yellow cone.
Coaching points
Toe Taps Roll Over
Tap the ball with the inside of your right foot so that the ball rolls slightly across your body. Tap the ball with the inside of your left foot so that the ball rolls back to the starting position.
Roll your right foot over the ball (slap) so it moves across your body towards your left foot. Repeat the action but start with the left foot so that the left foot will perform the roll/slap ele-
ment of the skill.
Skill Practice - Dribbling & Running with the ball
Aims
To develop correct dribbling and running with the ball technique and execute the correct strength of touch according to the space
To develop correct decision making from assessing situations and capitalising on opportunities
Area
20/30 yards x 20/30 yards.
Numbers
This game can accommodate 8-12 players. If there are greater numbers then the area
should either be increased in size or a second grid should be created.
Layout
In this game 6-8 goals (1-2 yards apart) are spread around the area.
Rules
The attackers try to score a point by dribbling the ball through any of the small goals
while the defenders try to prevent them from doing so. The attacking players play
against three or four defenders. The defender must only block a goal and then move to
the next, they cannot remain as a goalkeeper.
Development
Players must dribble through the goals in a colour sequence - red, yellow, red etc.
Coaching points
In this drill players will have to execute the correct strength of touch on the ball according to the availability of space i.e. dribbling or running with the ball. Players should be encouraged
to make contact with the ball with both feet and are given the opportunity to reverse or change direction if confronted by a defending player. Finally players should be encouraged to use
their ball mastery and feint skills and take a calculated risk to beat the defenders to score through the gates.
Game Practice - Dribbling & Running with the ball
Aims
To develop confidence and ability in a duel situation
Area
This game is played in a 20 yard x 20 yard area.
Numbers
This game can accommodate up to 10 players. A second area should be created to
accommodate larger numbers. This will avoid players stand still for too long.
Layout
This 1v1 game is played over a small sized area and if possible with small goals. If
the game is progressed to a 2v2/3v3 game then the size of the area should be in-
creased.
Rules
The red player begins as a defender and passes the ball to the yellow player across the
area. The yellow player must engage the red player and then attempt to score in either
goal. After a goal is scored the colours must turn and race to their corresponding col-
our cone at the opposite goal. These cones also double up as shooting line. If the
defender touches their cone before the attacker the goal will be cancelled out.
Development
The game can be progressed to involved greater numbers to a maximum of 3v3. In this situation the player that shot and the defending player closest to them will be the ones that race to
the opposite cones.
Coaching points
As a 1v1 practice this will work on the attackers ability to control the ball effectively, dribble, run with the ball, improvise (ball mastery, turns and feints). It was also work on the defend-
ers ability to close the space quick, deny and dictate and gives opportunities to tackle and make interceptions. As a 2v2, 3v3 or 4v4 practice this will also offer opportunities for attacking
players to develop further principles of attack - width, improvisation, mobility, penetration and support. It also provides opportunities for defenders to understand the concept of pressure
and cover and also highlights the importance of their body position and angle of approach.
Warm Up Activity - Rats & Rabbits (Agility)
Aims
To develop control of the body in a dynamic environment (move quickly and efficiently, start, stop and start again whilst maintaining stability)
To develop combination of movements by using good balance, co-ordination, range of movement, strength and speed
Area
20 yards x 20 yards or 30 yards x 30 yards depending on numbers.
Numbers
This game can accommodate numbers ranging from 10 to 20.
Layout
Divide the participants into two groups and form parallel straight lines. As the par-
ticipants to stand one metre apart from the person on each side of them and have the
two lines stand about a metre apart. Ensure the two lines are the same distance from
the end line on their side of the playing area.
Rules
The participants from one team are called rabbits and the other team rats. On the call
“rabbits” the players with that name run to their end line before being tagged by their
”rat”, on the call “rats” the reserve applies.
Ensure when participants line up that they have room to turn around without bumping
into each other. In addition, ensure the end lines are at least 2 metres from any walls
or hazards.
Development
Award points for players who catch another player and for players who get to their safe zone. Introduce the names “rhinos” and “racoons” to the teams and continue the game. The coach
can develop this game by introducing positions of readiness/balances and a football to increase the difficulty.
Coaching points
Look at reactions - ability to react to commands, consider a range of balanced positions, introduce sideways movement and movement from the ready position.
Irish fa Skills Development Programme (7-9 Years) Week Two - Dribbling & RWTB
BALL WORK - Mastery (Inside, Outside)
Aims
Area
20 yards x 20 yards depending on size of numbers.
Numbers
Layout
Coloured cones are spread out evenly inside the grid and the players are asked to
stand at a cone. There should be more cones than players. The variety of coloured
cones is determined by the coach but 2-3 different colours should be sufficient.
Rules
Players are encouraged to dribble through the grid moving from free cone to free cone.
Players are not allowed to queue waiting for a cone but instead should keep on the
move with their head up and move to nearest free cone.
Development
The drill can be progressed so that players are moving to cones in a sequence. For
example blue - red - yellow - blue. Coaches can also look for players to perform a
different task from cone to cone. For example right foot from the blue cone, left foot
from red cone and both from yellow cone.
Coaching points
Inside, Outside
Tap the ball with the inside of your right foot so that the ball rolls across your body. Use the outside of your left foot to move the ball away from your body. Shift your feet sideway so the
ball is between them. Tap the ball with the inside of your left foot so that the ball rolls back across your body. Use the outside of your right foot to move the ball away from your body.
Shift your feet sideway so the ball is between them and repeat.
Irish fa Skills Development Programme (7-9 Years) Week two - Dribbling & RWTB
Skill Practice - Dribbling & Running with the ball
Aims
To develop correct dribbling and running with the ball technique and execute the correct strength of touch according to the space
Area
20/30 metres x 20/30 metres.
Numbers
This game can accommodate 8-12 players. If there are greater numbers then the area
should either be increased in size or a second grid should be created.
Layout
Five 5m x 5m islands are marked out inside the grid 9one in each corners and one in
the middle of the grid). Players are spread out through the playing area but not inside
the islands.
Rules
Players are spread out through the playing area, each with a ball but not inside the
islands. Players must dribble to each corner island via the middle island. Players will
return to the middle island once they have visited all four corner islands.
Development
The activity can be first progressed with players visiting all five islands but not in any
order or sequence. There can only be a maximum of two players on an island at any
one time. If a player’s last remaining island is occupied they must move into space
until it becomes available.
The activity can be further progressed by adding sharks. Sharks can move along the areas of water but cannot move onto an island. The sharks will attempt to tackle the other players
and win their ball by kicking it out of the grid. The other players can evade the sharks by moving onto the islands but they cannot stay longer than 5 seconds. If a player loses their ball
they can return to the game after completing a task (e.g. keepie ups). Players should be given the opportunity to be a shark and a swimmer.
Coaching points
In this drill players will have to execute the correct strength of touch on the ball according to the availability of space i.e. dribbling or running with the ball. Players should be encouraged
to make contact with the ball with both feet and are given the opportunity to reverse or change direction if confronted by a defending player. Players should play with their heads up and
constantly scan the area f0r available islands and the position of defenders. Finally players should be encouraged to use their ball mastery and feint skills and take a calculated risk to
beat the defenders to remain in the areas of water.
Game Practice - Dribbling & Running with the ball
Aims
To offer opportunities for attacking players to utilise their ball mastery, turn and feint skills in a competitive environment
To develop and understanding of the principles of attack
Area
20 yards x 20 yards.
Numbers
This drill can accommodate up to 10 outfield players and 1/2 goalkeepers. A second
area should be create to accommodate greater numbers.
Layout
The area is divided into two equal size zones measuring 10 yards long and 20 yards
wide. Goals are placed at the end of Zone 2.
Rules
The first defender will start on the line of Zone 1 and Zone 2. The defender can come
off this line once the first attacker moves the ball into Zone 1. The attacking players
will then play 2 v 1 in Zone 1.
If they can retain the ball and enter Zone 2 they will then play a 2 v 1 plus a goal-
keeper and aim to have a shot on goal. The defender in Zone 2 will start 5 yards from
goal and can only be active once the ball enters Zone 2. The defender from Zone 1
cannot enter Zone 2.
Development
This activity can be progressed by increasing the defensive opposition. This can be achieved by allowing the defender from Zone 1 to enter Zone 2 or by introducing an additional defender
in either of the zones. If the number of defenders are increased it may be possible to increase the number of attacking players. To increase the difficulty for the attacking player restric-
tions can be placed on their number of touches or a time limit can be placed on how long they can spend in each zone.
Coaching points
Look at the two attacking players and their angles and distances of support and ensure they keep width within the playing area. Encourage mobility such as overlapping runs to create
space, disguise and in order to draw or drag the defender. Also encourage speed of movement. Observe the attacking players’ decision making and ensure that their actions are purpose-
ful. With their passing focus on accuracy, weight of pass and the timing of the runs. Finally encourage a positive attitude towards shooting and observe technique in relation to the sce-
nario.
Warm Up Activity - Freeze & Thaw (Balance)
Aims
To develop an understanding of that balance is achieved when the Centre of Gravity is over the supporting base
To explore the centre base and develop balance when a body part moves away from the centre
Area
20 yards x 20 yards or 30yards x 30 yards depending on numbers.
Numbers
Layout
Participants are encouraged to move through the marked out area remaining in space
as much as possible.
Rules
The coach will nominate 2/3 participants to be freezers and the rest to be thawers.
When touched by a freezer, the participants must freeze in a balanced position, stay-
ing as still as possible. They must remain still until another participant touches them
to thaw them out, at this point they can rejoin the game.
The aim is for the freezers is to freeze all the participants. For those who are frozen
they must remain as still as possible until they are thawed. The freezers should be
changed every minute.
Development
The game can be varied by utilising different body parts or body positions for participants to freeze in, i.e. on one leg, with arms above head etc. To increase the difficulty of the game the
coach will nominate 2/3 participants to be thawers. These players can only thaw out other participants and can also be frozen. This will ensure that participants who are frozen will re-
main in a balanced position for longer.
Coaching points
Focus on the positions in which the participants freeze, highlight good practice and correct those who are not staying in a balanced position. Pay close attention to body alignment.
Irish fa Skills Development Programme (7-9 Years) Week Three - Passing & Receiving
Ball Work - Turns (Inside Hook)
Aims
To develop the ability to change direction (180º) whilst protecting the ball
Area
20 yards x 20 yards or 30yards x 30 yards depending on numbers.
Numbers
Layout
Players are organised in pairs and are positioned inside a 5 yard x 5 yard area.
Rules
Players will take it in turns to dribble to the end of their grid, perform the turn and
dribble back to the start line.
Development
The drill can be progressed so that one of the pair acts as a defender. The players will
start at opposite sides of the grid and will meet in the middle. The attacking player
will turn, protect the ball and return to their line. The roles are reverse after a deter-
mined number of attempts.
Coaching points
Inside Hook
Hook your foot around the back of the ball coming around the outside of the ball. Use your instep to stop and turn the ball 180 degrees. Push the ball in front of you using the same foot
and accelerate away from your opponent. This is a great turn to master so once you have perfected it learn how to perform it with your other foot.
Skill Practice - Passing & Receiving
Aims
To coach passing accuracy over 5/10 yards
To develop positive movement away markers before receiving a pass
Area
Circle or square 20/30 yards wide x 20/30 yards long.
Numbers
Players work in pairs and the drill can accommodate up to 16 players. More players
can be accommodated by duplicating the drill.
Layout
Players are organised into pairs and spread around the area. One member of the pair
stands on the outside and the other inside the area about 10 yards apart. There
should be a safe distance between each group of pairs.
Rules
The drill begins with the inside player receiving a pass from the outside player, return-
ing the pass and then moving to find a new outside player. Duration of 10/20 mins.
development
The drill progresses to the inside players receiving the pass, turning, dribbling and
then returning the ball to the outside player and then moving to find a new outside
player. The next progression will see the inside players receiving the pass, turning,
dribbling and then finding a new outside player that is free without a ball. The inside
player will receive this ball back and then repeat the process to find another outside player that is free without a ball. Therefore the ball you receive at the beginning of the progression is
the one you keep.
Coaching points
Encourage short passing through the middle of the ball with the inside of the foot, keeping a strong ankle. The standing foot is beside the ball of just behind, head should be steady and
arms out for balance.
Encourage players to make a positive movement to lose the marker. For example move away from the ball and then towards to receive the pass. Coach the timing of this movement so
players are not static for too long. Look at the players ability to receive the pass on the back foot and on the half turn to open their body correctly to limit the amount of touches on the ball.
Encourage plays to scan before they receive the ball so they move the ball in the correct direction.
Game Practice - Passing & Receiving
Aims
To develop patience in possession and the ability to play passes through defences when gaps appear
Area
15/20 yards wide x 20//30 yards long.
Numbers
This practice can accommodate either 9 (3x3) or 12 (3x4) players.
Layout
In this example the groups of 3 players are separated into each zone. The group in
the middle zone will be the defending team. Each zone is the same size both in width
and depth.
Rules
The team with the ball must keep possession and try to play a pass through the mid-
dle zone to the team at the other end of the playing area. The players are not allowed
to pass over head height. If the defending team intercepts the ball they will swap
zones with the team that lost possession.
development
The practice can be developed so that the player receiving the ball cannot pass back
to the player that has just passed. This will encourage all three players to be involved
in each sequence.
The practice can be further developed with two touch and one touch passing to develop quick decision making and a high tempo of passing.
Finally, the practice can be adapted to introduce a defender to create a 3v1 situation (this will leave two defenders in the middle zone). This will increase the pressure on each pass and
will ensure the supporting players offer good angles of support to the player on the ball. If the defender wins the ball they will swap positions with the player that lost possession.
Coaching points
arms out for balance. Look at the players ability to receive the pass on the back foot and on the half turn to open their body correctly to limit the amount of touches on the ball. Encourage
a high tempo of passing across the width of the grid. This will force a shift in the defensive block and will split the defenders to allow the through pass.
Warm Up Activity - Body Part Clusters (Balance)
Aims
To develop an understanding of that balance is achieved when the Centre of Gravity is over the supporting base
Area
20 yards x 20 yards or 30 yards x 30 yards depending on numbers.
Numbers
Layout
Participants are encouraged to move through the marked out area remaining in space
as much as possible.
Rules
Participants move around the marked area, the coach calls out both a number and a
body part, i.e. 4 and right leg. In this case the participants must get into groups of 4
and all balance on their right leg.
The coaches can award the best cluster with a point. The coach can continue the
game, varying the pace, group numbers and body parts.
Ensure all participants take care not to bump into each other and are aware of the
space in which the game is taking place.
Coaching points
Focus on the positions in which the participant balance, highlight good practice and correct those who are not staying in a balanced position. Pay attention to body alignment and ques-
tion participants to reinforce good practice.
Irish fa Skills Development Programme (7-9 Years) Week Four - Passing & Receiving
Ball Work - Turns (Drag Back)
Aims
To develop the ability to change direction (180º) whilst protecting the ball
Area
30 yards x 30 yards or large circle.
Numbers
The diagram shows 8 players working in a safe area. To include more players a second
area can be created or the current area increased.
Layout
Players are spaced out 5 yards apart (or a safe distance) with a centre cone placed
10/15 yards away.
Rules
The players are placed equal distances apart around the circle. On the coaches com-
mand, all the players run with the ball towards the centre before changing direction
and doubling back towards the next cone in a clockwise direction.
Development
To increase the difficulty the coach can ensure the players move in both directions, use
both feet, increase the tempo and practice a number of different turns.
Coaching points
Drag Back
Put your foot on the top of the ball to stop it. Drag the ball backwards with the same foot whilst turning your body 180 degrees. Push the ball in front of you and accelerate away from your
opponent. Add an additional element to this turn after Step 2. Do not turn 180 degrees, instead, flick the ball with the inside of your foot behind your standing leg. This will move then
ball 90 degrees. Encourage the players to use their upper body to create a physical barrier between them and the rest of the players that will meet them in the centre of the grid.
Skill Practice - Passing & Receiving
Aims
To develop positive movement away markers before receiving a pass
Area
10/15 yards wide x 10/15 yards long.
Numbers
This practice can accommodate groups of 3. If there are greater numbers then addi-
tional grids should be created.
Layout
Players are organised as shown in the diagram. Two players are positioned at the
bottom cones with a ball each. The remaining player takes a position between the
mannequins at the top of the grid
Rules
The player at the top of the grid will move side to side to receive a ball and pass back
to the players at the bottom cones. The top player will receive the ball on the outside
of the mannequin, control the ball offline to bring it behind the mannequin and then
pass back on the inside of the mannequin. After 60 seconds players should rotate
their roles.
development
The practice can be develop to encourage two touch passing and a high tempo of passing. A driven pass can be included to increase the difficulty of the drill but the length of the grid may
have to be increased. Players can also be encouraged to use different parts of their foot to control the ball. This should only be introduced once a high success rate has been achieved.
Coaching points
arms out for balance. Look at the players ability to receive the pass and control the ball offline so to present it to their other foot. This will instil good habits of control the ball in a way
that opens up the pitch and forces defenders to move offline when closing down.
Game Practice - Passing & Receiving
Aims
To develop an understanding of angles of support in order to retain possession
Area
30 yards wide x 40 yards long.
Numbers
This practice can accommodate 8 - 10 players. More players can be accommodated
by duplicating the practice.
Layout
4 end zones (10x10) placed in the corners of the playing area. The middle zone will be
20 yards long x 30 yards wide. The players are organised into two teams. Each team
will have a player in each of their end zones and the two remaining players will play in
the middle zone.
Rules
The game is played as a 2v2 in the middle zone and points are scored by passing the
ball to the correct colour end zone. If the green end zone players receive the ball they
pass to the blues to start a new attack and visa versa.
Duration of 3/4 sets of 2/3 mins. Rotate the end zone players after each set.
Development
Success is achieved by keeping possession of the ball and by scoring by completing a pass into the end zone player. The game can be progressed by limiting the number of touches. The
end zone can also be reduced so that there is 1 player in the middle end zone and therefore 3v3 in the middle zone.
Coaching points
Encourage passing through the middle of the ball with the inside of the foot, keeping a strong ankle. The standing foot is beside the ball of just behind, head should be steady and arms
out for balance. Encourage players to make a positive movement to lose the marker. For example move away from the ball and then towards to receive the pass. Coach the timing of this
movement so players are not static for too long.
The game can be conditioned to allow the middle and the end zone player to change positions after the scoring pass. This will then create a temporary overload situation with the player
leaving the end zone having to become a recovering defender.
Warm Up Activity - Twister (Co-ordination)
Aims
To develop the ability to coordinate body action to meet various commands
Area
Numbers
This activity can accommodate numbers ranging from 10 to 20.
Layout
Coloured cones are scattered around the playing area. The coach will give a command/
activity for each colour. Participants are encouraged to move through the marked out
area remaining in space as much as possible.
Rules
Participants move around the marked area, the coach calls out a colour i.e.
Yellow / Left Hand
Blue / Right Hand
Red / Jump & Head
Development
The practice can be developed to the colours meaning more than one command. A ball
can also be introduced and players can dribble while moving.
Coaching points
Focus on the positions in which the participant balance, highlight good practice and correct those who are not staying in a balanced position. Pay attention to body alignment and ques-
tion participants to reinforce good practice. Ensure all participants move with their head up and are aware of others in the playing area.
Irish fa Skills Development Programme (7-9 Years) Week Five - shooting & Finishing
Ball Work - Feints (Fake)
Aims
To develop the ability to trick an opponent with body and ball movement and create space
Area
Separate 10 yard x 10 yard grids.
Numbers
This drill can accommodate 4 players within each grid.
Layout
Four players are positioned at a cone each within the grid.
Rules
Players will move diagonally and meet in the centre of the grid and perform the feint
and then dribble onto the cone behind their opponent. At this point the players will
dribble to the right/clockwise around the grid to the next cone. At this point the next
group of players to move off their cone.
Development
The coach can encourage the players to perform the feints in a sequence or in combi-
nation. Opposition can also be created with only one player on the diagonal having a
ball.
Coaching points
Fake, Take
With the ball between your feet lift your preferred foot as to push the ball outside with your small toe. Miss the ball so your foot now plants past the ball. The ball is once again between
your feet. With the outside of your other foot push the ball sideways to beat your opponent. Add an additional fake to this feint to make it even more confusing for you opponent - fake,
fake, take.
Skill Practice - Shooting & Finishing
Aims
To develop shooting power and finesse technique
To create game specific shooting scenarios
Area
30 yards x 30 yards. With goals staggered at either side of the drill area.
Numbers
This drill can accommodate large numbers but, if this is the case, coaches are encour-
aged to create a second playing area to avoid a long waiting time between shots.
Layout
Goals are positioned at either side of the drill area with groups split evenly and posi-
tioned 20/30 yards away from goal.
Rules
The players dribble from their area one at a time towards the goal and take a shot
from a distance specified by the coach. After they have taken their shot they join the
other line. The coach can develop the technique of power and finesse.
Development
Difficultly can be increased by adding target areas in the net, adding a goalkeeper,
adding a defender or adding cones to dribble around before shot.
Coaching points
Look at the best technique for the shot. If shooting for accuracy players should use the side foot. Their non-kicking foot should be placed alongside the ball and they should aim to make
contact with the middle of the ball. The power is generated from the hip and their body should be over the ball. If shooting for power players should use the instep. Their non-kicking foot
should be placed alongside the ball and they should aim to make contact with the middle of the ball. As they approach the ball the knee of their striking foot should be over the ball. The
power is generated through the action of the knee straightening through the ball and the movement of the hip forward. Again the upper body should be over the ball to keep the ball low.
Game Practice - Shooting
Aims
To develop shooting accuracy from a distance of 18 yards or less
To develop shooting composure under pressure
Area
30 yards x 30 yards. With goals at either side of the drill area.
Numbers
This drill can accommodate large numbers but, if this is the case, coaches are encour-
aged to create a second playing area to avoid a long waiting time between shots.
Layout
Goals are positioned at either side of the area with groups split evenly and positioned
at the halfway point and directly across from each other. Players in the two opposing
teams are numbered so Yellow No.1 will play against Red No.1.
Rules
When a number is called the players dribble to and around their corresponding col-
oured cone before taking a shot at their net. The team that scores first will receive a
point.
Development
Difficultly can be increase by adding dribble cones, or a defender or goalkeepers.
Coaching points
Warm Up Activity - Co-Ordination (Mirrors)
Aims
To develop the ability to coordinate body actions to mirror a partner
Area
Numbers
This activity can accommodate numbers ranging from 10 to 20.
Layout
Players are organised into pairs, will spread throughout the area and will stand facing
each other.
Rules
One player will carry out an action using a body part and their partner must mirror this
action. Actions can be:
Lifting limbs
Moving forwards, backwards, sideways
Jumping / Hopping
Development
The practice can be developed by allowing more than one action at a time. A ball can
also be introduced and players can dribble, juggle, bounce and catch the ball.
Coaching points
Focus on the correct mirror action and the quickness of movements and reactions. Pay attention to body alignment and question participants to reinforce good practice. Ensure all partici-
pants play fairly and show respect when working together.
Irish fa Skills Development Programme (7-9 Years) Week Six - shooting & Finishing
Ball Work - Feints (Scissors)
Aims
To develop the ability to trick an opponent with body and ball movement and create space
Area
20/30 yards x 20/30 yards.
Numbers
This game can accommodate up to 10 or 12 players. If there is a greater number it
would be necessary to set up a second grid.
Layout
A selection of cones are placed in the middle of the grid, roughly spaced one metre
apart. A selection of cones are also placed in a straight line on two sides of the grid.
These cones are also spaced out one metre apart.
Rules
Players will start at the bottom of the grid with the numbers split evenly between both
cones. The player at the left cone will start first and dribble into the grid and through
the middle cones. The player must use the feints at each cone and navigate diago-
nally through the cones to the corner cone. At this point the player at the right cone
will start.
After dribbling through the centre cones the players move down the other side of the
grid slaloming through the cones using the feints determined by the coach. Upon
completion the players will then join the back of the other group.
Development
To increase the difficulty the coach can ensure the players move in both directions, use both feet, increase the tempo and practice double feints.
Coaching points
Scissor, Take
With the ball between your feet lift your preferred foot and bring it towards your other foot behind the ball. Circle around the front of the ball with your preferred foot bringing it back to its
original position. With the outside of your other foot push the ball sideways to beat your opponent. Add an additional scissors to this feint to make it more difficult for you opponent to read
your movement.
Skill Practice - Shooting & Finishing
Aims
To develop shooting accuracy from in and around the 18 yard box
Area
Area slightly larger than 18 yard box or 30 yards x 30 yards area.
Numbers
6 - 12 players plus 1 or 2 goalkeepers.
Layout
Three stations are positioned 10 yards outside the 18 yard box. An equal number of players are
placed at each station.
Rules
Station 1
The player dribbles into the box and has a shot at goal. After the shoot this player moves into a
position to play a layoff pass from Station 2.
Station 2
The player dribbles to the edge of the D before passing to Player 1. Player 2 receives the pass
inside the box and has a shot at goal. Player 2 then moves into a position to defend against
Player 3.
Station 3
Player 3 dribbles into the box and must beat Player 2 before having a shot at goal. Player 1
moves to Station 2, Player 2 moves to Station 3 and Player 3 moves to Station 1.
Development
Cones can be placed along the players run which they have to feint around before shooting. The practice can be further developed with the player at station 1 becoming involved in a 2v1 with the player from
station 3.
Coaching points
Encourage a high tempo practice with everything working in correct sequence. Look at the best technique for the shot. If shooting for accuracy players should use the side foot. Their non-kicking foot should
be placed alongside the ball and they should aim to make contact with the middle of the ball. The power is generated from the hip and their body should be over the ball. If shooting for power players should
use the instep. Their non-kicking foot should be placed alongside the ball and they should aim to make contact with the middle of the ball. As they approach the ball the knee of their striking foot should be
over the ball. The power is generated through the action of the knee straightening through the ball and the movement of the hip forward. Again the upper body should be over the ball to keep the ball low.
Game Practice - Shooting & Finishing
Aims
To develop shooting power and finesse technique
Area
30 yards x 30 yard area split into two halves.
Numbers
The game as shown in the diagram can accommodate 10 players. This game is played
with on two halves with a 3v1 in each half plus a goalkeeper. The game can accom-
modate larger number but at a maximum a 5v3 in each half (the playing area would
be increased as a result).
Layout
This shooting game involves 3 attackers against 1 defender in each half. The goal-
keepers will always pass to the defender in their half.
Rules
The 3 attackers must shoot at the goal in their half or set up their teammate in the
other half for a long range effort.
Development
The game can be reversed to encourage more long range efforts from the now 3 de-
fending players and encourage link up play from the lone attacker.
Coaching points

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Skill Development Programme

Irish fa Skills Development Programme (7-9 Years) The Coaching Standard

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