Mike Haas has garnered a reputation as one of the most knowledgable coaches within the ranks of the US Soccer Federation. He is currently the Colorado State Director of Coaching where he implements and develops curriculums and licensing courses for thousands of players and coaches within the State. Haas also holds the prominent position of Region IV ODP Director and is a USSF National Staff Instructor. Haas travels extensively to teach at coaching courses nationwide including the USSF ´A´ license.

The following session emphasises “Speed of Play” through various games / activities.

Activity #1:

Set Up:

A 5v5 is organised inside a 40×30 yard grid as shown below. A supply of balls is placed with the coach to maintain the tempo of the activity.

Note: Two groups can be organised to accommodate the entire team.

Explanation:

Both teams compete for possession of the ball and attempt to score points by dribbling or stopping the ball on their opponents goal line. 2-touch restriction in the defensive half: Unlimited touch in the attacking half.

*12-15 min game

Coaching Points:

• Sharp passing and movement.
• Move the ball quickly – especially in the defensive half – take no chances!

Activity #2:

Set Up:

A 5v5 is organised as shown below – the playing area is divided into 3 zones as shown. 3 mini goals are placed at each end of the playing area.

Explanation:

Both teams compete for possession of the ball and attempt to score in any of their opponents 3 mini-goals.
2-touch in middle zone: Unlimited touch in wide zones of the field.

*12-15 min game

Coaching Points:

• Sharp passing and movement at all times.
• Move the ball quickly in central areas of the pitch – 1 and 2 touch.
• Take more chances – be creative in attack in wide areas.
• Maintain a high tempo throughout the activity.

Activity #3:

Set Up:

A 5v5 + GK’s is organised as shown in Diagram (c) below. Grid size – 44×40
Note: Can also be played 4v4 +2 “floaters”.

Explanation:

Both teams compete for possession of the ball and attempt to score in their opponents goal.
Note: May add touch restrictions….to increase the speed of play/ball movement.

*12-15 min game

Coaching Points:

• Tempo must remain high throughout.
• Sharp passing and movement.
• Limit the number of touches in tight spaces.
• Communication is vital.

Activity #4:

Set Up:

A 9v9 is organised on a 55 yard wide pitch – length of pitch is 18 to 18 yard box. Note: (can be set up penalty spot to penalty spot depending on age/ability) A central “box” is created / marked with cones as highlighted with the red lines below.

Explanation:

Both teams compete for possession of the ball and attempt to score in their opponents goal. 2-touch restriction is in place while inside the central “box”. In wide positions or in front of goal NO touch restriction applies.

*12-15min game

Coaching Points:

• Players must understand that the central areas of the poitch are often congested – quick play is essential!
• Sharp passing and movement.
• High tempo at all times.

Activity #5:

Set Up:

An 11v11 is organised on a 55 yard wide pitch as shown below. Length of pitch is 18 to 18 yard box.

Explanation:

Both teams compete for possession of the ball and attempt to score in their opponents goal.
Restrictions: 1-touch if ball is on the ground : multiple touches can be used to settle flighted balls.

*12-15 min game

Coaching Points:

• Tight spaces require quick play!
• Quality of passing must be high – timing, weight, accuracy etc.
• “Play the way you´re facing”
• Movement “off” the ball must be of high quality.
• Communication is vital

Cool down / static stretch – 5 min