| Session length | 75 minutes, breaks included |
|---|---|
| Suggested group | 10–16 players |
| Space | Several 25 × 20 yard areas |
| Equipment | Balls, bibs, flat cones; secure any goals before use |
Your practice, minute by minute
- 0–10minutes
Arrival game
Let players join a small game as they arrive. Observe the theme before giving instructions. Use extra fields to keep teams small.
- 10–22minutes
3v2 transition waves
After a shot or clear turnover, two attackers leave and the remaining attacker defends with one teammate against the next three. Walk through the rotation before speeding up.
Open setup & variations ↗ - 22–34minutes
Counterattack to an end zone
When possession changes, the new team looks forward first but may keep the ball if the direct route is closed. Restart from the end line after a score.
Open setup & variations ↗ - 34–46minutes
Pressure and cover in 2v2
The nearest defender slows the ball. The partner covers behind at an angle and adjusts when the ball moves. Restart with new roles after a shot or turnover.
Open setup & variations ↗ - 46–52minutes
Drinks and transitions
Distribute this time between activities. Add further breaks whenever players or conditions require; shorten activities to keep the session within its planned length.
- 52–72minutes
Final game
Play a normal small-sided game. Look for transitions decisions without requiring a particular number of passes. Rotate teammates and roles.
- 72–75minutes
Player reflection
Ask each pair to share one useful decision and one thing to try next time. Gather equipment together and follow the team’s pickup procedure.
Your coaching focus
On a regain, look for control and a view of the field. On a loss, look for a nearby delay and teammates recovering toward useful spaces.
Adapt for U11–U12
Ask players to explain the options they saw. Build pressure gradually, rotate responsibilities, and finish with a game in which the coaching theme can appear without a forced passing rule.
If attendance or space changes
- With fewer players, keep the same theme and use pairs or 2v2 instead of waiting for a full team.
- With more players, duplicate a field or station rather than adding a long queue.
- If an activity is too hard, use its easier variation before changing the entire session.
- Treat these timings as a plan, not a requirement to continue when conditions are unsuitable.
After practice
Write down one example of the theme appearing in the final game and one obstacle players encountered. Repeat the useful activity next week with a small adjustment. A familiar game can reveal progress more clearly than a completely new session.
KEEP IT SIMPLEBuild the habit of a useful first action immediately after gaining or losing the ball.
Practical suggestions to adapt to your players. This resource has not received independent coach or referee review. How our content is prepared.