The overriding aim of coaching players of this age will be to have them with a ball at their feet as much as possible although practices such as tag, throwing, catching, balancing, running etc. to develop agility and physical prowess are also of the utmost importance.

It is imperative that players have exposure to as many 1v1 and 2v1 situations as possible.

Emphasis will be on developing technical skills and ball control with both feet and in games they will be encouraged to take risks and be creative. It is imperative that practice recreates game situations as much as possible so small-sided games with targets or goals will always be heavily favoured over drills.

Any match time will be divided equally and regular positional rotation of players will occur to give players as many different experiences as possible and to help develop their understanding of the game.

  Technical

• Basic Techniques
• “Ball and the wall” activities
• Improving basic skills
• Group practice
• Games as the teacher
• Interchange of positions
• Invasion game principles
• Playing other sports

  Psychological

• Enthusiasm
• Imagination & Exploration
• Avoiding anxiety and boredom
• Progressive introduction to mental skills
• Progressive group activities
• Understanding games

  Physical

• Agility, Balance, Co-ordination, Speed
• Kinaesthesia (movement), Gliding (ice & snow, etc), Buoyancy (water)
• Catching, Passing, Kicking
• Running, Jumping, Throwing
• Motor control, Multi-skills, Mixed activities

  Social

• Fun and enjoyment
• Support from parents, schools and clubs
• Inclusion and participation
• Form relationships
• Safe environment
• Simple rules and ethics
• Group behavior can be influenced as a foundation