Linus Rhode is a former Olympian having represented Canada’s 1996 Olympic Team. Rhode also played professionally for New Orleans in the “A” League (US 1st Division) and for Wynberg St. John’s in South Africa. He was a member of the Canadian Olympic Team from 1993-96, and was selected for the Canadian National U-20 Team during that time. Rhode graduated from the University of Portland with a bachelor’s degree in organizational communications. He captained Portland to the NCAA Division I Final Four in 1995. He has also served as the Oregon Olympic Development Team head coach, in addition to being a Region IV staff coach for both the boys and girls’ ODP programs. Originally from British Columbia, he currently holds a USSF ‘A’ License.
Possession for Penetration
Activity #1 Warm Up / Technical training:
Set Up:
Players are split into groups of three and arranged as shown below in Diagram (a). One ball per group of three.
Objective:
Player (B) in the middle works for 30-60 seconds. In the above diagram Player (A) has passed to Player (B). Player (B) must receive the ball in a half-turned stance in order to quickly switch the ball to the opposite player (C). Player (B) must repeat the sequence for the designated period of time. Rotate players after each 30-60 second period. Players are given time to stretch between each work period.
Coaching Points:
- Check back at an angle to “open up” your body.
- Use as little touches as possible to turn and play the ball to the opposite side.
- Good first touch.
- Quality of passing – sharp and accurate.
- Communication – call for and demand the ball.
Activity #2:
Set Up:
Six players are organized in a 10×15 yard grid as shown in Diagram (b) below. Four players are positioned around the perimeter and a 1v1 is organized inside the grid. Extra balls are spread around the perimeter of the playing area.
Objective:
Both players inside the grid compete for possession of the ball. Points are awarded for switching the ball from end-line to end-line. In the above diagram, Player (A) has received the first pass from perimeter player (B). To score a point Player (A) must successfully complete a pass to the opposite side perimeter player (C). Player (A) may use any of the perimeter players as support players at any time. Perimeter players are limited to two-touch. If a point is scored the next ball is put into play by any of the perimeter players – this way the direction continually changes.
Coaching Points:
- Players must offer good supporting angles in order to receive passes from the perimeter players.
- Sharp movement – changes of speed etc.
- Receive balls in a half-turned position if possible – aids in quick switching of the ball.
- Quality of passing – sharp and accurate.
Activity #3:
Set Up:
A 9v9 is organized inside a 30×40 yard grid as shown in Diagram (c) below. 5 gates are created using cones or flags as shown. A supply of balls is placed next to the coach outside the grid – this enables the game to maintain a high tempo.
Objective:
Both teams compete for possession of the ball and attempt to score by passing the ball successfully to a teammate through any of the gates. Play is continuous for the designated period of time.
Progression:
Allow players to dribble or pass through the gates for 1 point.
Coaching Points:
- Maintain possession through constant movement and sharp passing.
- Supporting angles – players must “show” to receive passes.
- Be aware of penetrating balls through the gates.
- Attack the space – recognize goal-scoring opportunities early!
Final Game:
An 11v11 is organized on a full-size pitch. Both teams compete for possession of the ball and attempt to score in their opponents goal. NO RESTRICTIONS.
Coaching Points:
- Review all previous points.
- Maintain possession through constant movement and sharp passing.
- Supporting angles – players must “show” to receive passes.
- Be aware of penetrating balls – open up stance to increase field vision.
- Attack the space – recognize goal-scoring opportunities early!
Cool Down – Light Jog and Stretch 5-10 minutes.