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Switching the Attack to Exploit Wide Areas

must understand that possession in certain areas of the pitch is a means to shift the opponent to create space elsewhere. Utilize this full session to develop an understanding of exploiting wide areas of the pitch.

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Sideways-on: Check the Shoulder

Two of the most valuable techniques you can teach your young players are to receive the ball sideways-on facing the playing field and get them to check their shoulders at least once before they receive the ball. Work the non-dominant side: through the repetitions in these passing variations, challenge them to receive the ball with their weaker foot and make sure they are checking both shoulders at least once before receiving the ball.

Clint Stricker Team Warmup

This is a great standard warm up for all the teams in your club. An excellent video on pre-activity activation that can also help to support a players’ overall athletic development.

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5v5+2 Possession Pierce The Circle

Here is a unique possession activity focusing on your two central midfielders’ ability to show for and possess the ball in congested central areas of the field. It also gives your players the opportunity to play sharp, piercing, penetrating balls on the ground into your central midfielders feet. Well timed runs, committed movements off the ball, and spreading out the opponent will help you possess through your midfield players.

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Moving Rondos

Here is a challenging but fun version of possession to try with your team. The objective is to possess the ball in all six grids without losing possession. Have some fun with your players and see how well they do!

GK and the Back Four: Transition from Defense to Offense

Try this fundamental progression for helping your goalkeepers get plenty of repetitions when transitioning from defense to offense. It will help your goalkeeper utilize his/her central defenders and outside backs…

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Fast Attack 8V8+2

Try this functional version of an 8V8+2 counter attacking activity. Designated for high intensity, the coach will be able to dictate the amount and frequency of repetitions in order to reach the desired load for the day. Adjust the personnel or size to make it your own!

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FC Barcelona Positional Rondo

Inspired by the inaugural TOVO Coaching Course in Sitges, Spain, the following activity was choreographed by Coach Oscar who is the Head Coach of Barcelona’s U-9 squad. Because of the quality of his players, both of these activities can be adjusted and used with much older players if your environment demands so. Enjoy!

1V1 Competitive Finishing

1V1 Competitive Finishing will help your players improve their composure in and around the box. A high intensity and competitive activity!

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Primary & Secondary Defenders

Play and refine! Utilize these rondos and game related activities to teach your young players how to defend. Peel back the layers and challenge your players’ cognitive ability to recognize the appropriate moment to commit to winning the ball.

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Three Team Rondo

Three Team Rondo is a great transition activity for the younger ages 8-12, or simply use it as a warm up for the older ages, or perhaps the day before a match.

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Small Sided Shooting Game

This is a great finishing activity from long-time contributor Stuart Sharp. This basic and effective shooting game encourages your players to utilize their technical skills around the opponent’s box. Adjust the dimensions or number of players to adapt to your team and environment.