Skills School

Curriculum

The primary focus of this program is on dribbling skills. These include: skills to make the player more comfortable and fluid with the ball at their feet, skills that teach the player how to change directions with the ball, skills that teach the player how to effectively shield the ball and maintain possession, and skills to get past a defender in a 1v1 situation. Many of the drills used will also include secondary focuses of: positive 1st touch (especially how a good 1st touch can set up a dribbling skill or beat a defender in itself), weak foot training, finishing, 1st defender (block tackle, speed/angle of approach) and more. It is important to remember however that it takes a great deal of time and repetitions for players to go through the long process of initially learning new skills all the way through being able to have the confidence and skill to use them with consistent success in game situations.

Training System

The Skills School Program will emphasize a tiered training progression system.

Fun Games These are for the youngest of the groups only. For many of these players this is among their first soccer experiences. It is paramount that we make this a fun experience and develop a love for the game in these newest of players. Specific games are selected that not only teach and reinforce the basic dribbling skills, but that are also fun to play.

No Pressure Players will first learn the skills in a no pressure environment. No defensive pressure allows each individual player to master the moves at their own pace. A no pressure atmosphere is aimed to build confidence and touch with the soccer ball.

Low Pressure Players will then progress to conditions where they will see passive and light pressure. This allows them to learn proper space and timing of the moves. This also forces the players to perform at a slightly faster speed of play than under no pressure.

Full Pressure Finally players will face full pressure from defenders. This will come in the form of 1v1 and small sided games. Attackers must now put everything that they have learned together as they go against live defenders. When first attempting new moves under full pressure, many players will encounter difficulties. It is extremely important that coaches teach players to not be afraid to fail. Players often revert back to moves that they are more comfortable with so that they can have the "success" of scoring a goal. In doing so they will not improve as a soccer player. Coaches must continue to encourage the use of the new moves.

Scrimmage Every session will finish with 3v3, 4v4 or 5v5 scrimmages. This is an excellent time for players to continue to experiment with the new skills that they have learned. This is also an important time for the kids to play and have fun.

Overview

Curriculum

Training System