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We should also show players how to effectively use their body in game situations, both to control the ball and in relation to their opponent, and give them the support to be brave and retain the ball under pressure in 1v1 scenarios when feeling contact from opposing players. Throughout U10 soccer, we’re helping kids to improve their physical literacy and develop the fundamental movement skills that are integral to a happy and healthy life playing sport. We can do this by embracing less-structured drills that allow our players to experiment and encourage them to be creative. By now, kids will be able to understand more complex information, and we should help them to consider the outcomes of their actions, reflect on their own performances and how they could improve, and develop a sense of independence and personal responsibility.Īs discussed in PDP’s Q&A on coaching self-organization skills in the foundational ages, the best results don’t necessarily come from teaching these skills, but from creating the context for kids to learn them on their own.
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These years are a time of significant psychological development for our players, and we must strive to provide them with an environment that’s supportive, empathetic, and positive.Īt U10s, we should also encourage them to take more ownership of their decisions. This introduction to independent problem-solving, coupled with a continuing emphasis on individual development, will provide the foundations for implementing team principles at older age groups. This means helping them to use their skill with the ball to facilitate better decision-making improve their understanding of the game, both in and out of possession develop the technical ability to play in a range of positions and appreciate how their ability helps the team. Our goal is to expand on the skills that children learn in U6 and U8 soccer, challenging them to build on their technical ability with enhanced tactical awareness. In U10 soccer, there remains a heavy focus on ball mastery.
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By breaking down session design and player development into technical and tactical, psychological, physical, and social components, it encourages us to take a holistic approach to coaching that develops children as people, not just players. The FA’s Four Corner Model provides an excellent framework for creating well-rounded soccer practice plans. Dave Wright Things to consider when coaching U10 soccer Using the Four Corner Model to guide soccer practice plans and pick the right U10 soccer drill
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