BE PART OF THE PROGRAM.

U-16 to U-17: The Fervid Phase

Coach

Charismatic; Experienced; Knowledgeable; Articulate; Disciplinarian; Managerial know how; Thoughtful persuader. Understands what's needed to make jump to collegiate and professional ranks.

Technique

Skills should be mastered leading to artistry and improvisation under match conditions.
Individual skill covered during the warm-up
Increase technical speed. It is important that technique is still highly emphasized at this age
Strike balls cleanly over distance with accuracy under pressure.

Tactics

Increase tactical speed of play (Decision making) Individual, small group, and team training.
Individual's role within small-group tactics to affect team tactics.
Group - 3v3, 4v4, 7v7 small group tactics which will cover the following: pressing, anti-pressing, low-key defending, patterns of play, style of play - low to high pressure, "Rhythm of play"

Attacking

possession with a purpose- Width, depth, support
Combination play, wall pass, take over, overlap, double pass, third man running, encourage risk-taking
Penetration
Mobility / creativity
Crossing with proper runs into the box
Set plays

Defending

Compactness
Delay
Tracking back
Deny penetration
Bending runs

Physical

Fitness work with and without the ball, position-specific fitness testing, active recovery.
Flexibility - Static stretching before and after training / matches.
Dynamic Flexibility (especially before matches & training).
Agility - with and without the ball, including fast footwork techniques
Footwork - keeping the feet active when moving / playing
Endurance - Aerobic and anaerobic
Strength - Upper and lower body. Core strength and stability
Balance
Nutrition - Proper diet - pre-game, post-game, tournaments, etc
Prevention and care of injuries
Importance of rest / recovery - schedule issues relative to the physical demands

Psychological

Increased concentration , mental imagery and relaxation exercises
Leadership / player responsibilities on and off the field
Discipline, accountability
Respect for your peers and the game


Communication is key

Goal setting:

daily, weekly, monthly, seasonal

Vary program:

Satisfy player's urge for competition.
Encourage to watch high level soccer.