Practice makes a man perfect is something that each of us is aware of. And it’s true when it comes to soccer practice sessions. The kids look forward to getting to the field each day with an intention to learn something new. Nevertheless, it’s imperative that kids practice regularly the old techniques in soccer training as well that have been taught to them.
So the challenge before you is to ensure that monotony does not set in despite the kids practicing a few identical drills everyday. The following tips should help you carry out practice sessions in a disciplined, exciting, and regular manner.
1. Does this need more emphasis? Kids will learn from you and hence you should be a role model. Be present on the filed before the kids; demonstrate your skill with the ball, let all the kids participate, and arrange sessions ahead of time. This has the effect of winning over the player’s confidence and respect.
2. Educate the kids to carry their personal ball to the field daily. It is mandatory that every kid has a soccer ball. Just in case they forget to bring it, keep some extra balls with you.
3. There are some soccer moves which require regular practice. In soccer practice, kicking, passing, dribbling, and throw-ins are indispensible. It’s imperative for the kids to practice these daily without fail. Ensure that everyone participates in it even though some may show lack of enthusiasm initially.
4. When compared with soccer drills, include games more in practice sessions. This is mainly because comparatively more resilience and skill is required in games than drills. Also, with games, you can experiment and innovate while keeping the focus on soccer.
5. Discipline is the key to success for any team. Young players tend to make errors. Ensure that you nip all issues in the bud to whether big or small. But keep in mind the method you adopt to do so since kids are sensitive and get hurt easily.
6. While the session is on, you will note that some players do not run with the ball while others do. Make certain that this does not take place. All the players should join the action in some way or the other. Talk to the players about their respective positions and teach them to be responsible in those positions.
7. Do not make them scrimmage a lot. About 15 to 20 minutes at the end of the session is good enough. Also, do not appoint a goalie when scrimmaging. This will make the team good at defense.
8. Keep looking for new methodologies and games. This is the most recommended way of keeping the students interested in the training sessions.
Now its time to start putting these tips into action in your soccer practice sessions. These tips are sure to help the kids improve their skills in a short time. Our youth soccer coaching community is full of resources on soccer coaching. Register today and see your team’s performances get better with every training session.
Andre Botelho is known online as “The Expert Youth Soccer Coach” and his free ebooks and reports have been downloaded more than 100,000 times. Learn how to skyrocket your players’ skills and make practice sessions fun in record time. Download your free ebook at: Youth Soccer Drills.
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