Teams at this age should be playing 9 vs. 9. Developmental Stage. Winning is still not an important consideration; it is about acquiring skill, learning to play and fun.
Passing and receiving: Major areas
- Safety in passing. Eye contact with the receiver
- Vision of field (receiver)
- Movement by receiver
- 1st touch, receiving and turning with the ball
Technical emphasis
1) Receiving, 1st Touch & Turning
2) Passing w/ Inside, Outside, and Chipping
3) Shooting Accurately while Moving at Speed.
Tactical emphasis
1) When to Dribble & When to Pass.
2) Mobility-Types of Runs and Timing of Runs.
3) 2 vs. 2 (2nd defender & attacker-support & cover).
4) Team Shape: Opening Up & Roles within the Formation.
- 9 vs. 9 (Group Shapes 3-2-3-1 or 3-3-3)
5) 2nd Attacker and Defender.
6) Combination Play (1-2's, Run-Arounds, Take-Overs, etc.).
7) Passing from the Back-building up.