Blog
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.
Shadow Striker
Here is an excellent session that focuses on the shadow striker. The shadow striker can be one of the two strikers in a twin striker set up, or it can be the #10 attacking midfielder that often finds himself making penetrating runs into the opponent’s back line. Customize and tweak this session to fit your personnel and formation.
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.
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…
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!
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!
Penetrate Your Opponent
When to dribble? When to pass? Through plenty of repetition, here is a great opportunity to help your players gain confidence when deciding how to execute and breakdown the opponent in the final third. The session starts with a warm up focusing on dribbling at pace, then progresses from 4V4 to 7V7 to a final 8V8 match. Your players will enjoy this fast paced session!
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.
1V1 Competitive Finishing
1V1 Competitive Finishing will help your players improve their composure in and around the box. A high intensity and competitive activity!
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.
Diamond Passing
Diamond Passing will help you focus on passing and receiving technique, movements and timing of runs, creating separation from defender (cones) by checking away before receiving each pass, playing away from the mannequin, change of pace, speed of play, and game awareness.Try these fast paced passing variations in tight spaces with your team!