Programs

U10 Boys and Girls (Grades 3-4) U12 Boys and Girls (Grades 5-6) U14 Boys and Girls (Grades 7-8) PYS SELECT TEAMS (U12-U14) U5 Lil Kickers U6 Coed (Kindergarten) U7 Boys and Girls (Grade 1) U8 Boys and Girls (Grade 2) U10 Boys and Girls In-Town

Coastal Youth Soccer – U10 Boys and Girls (Grades 3-4)

Below are the rules for the CYSL U10 League. These rules are based on a recommended program from theUSYSA plus additions by a CYSL U10 Committee. The purpose of the program is to provide atmosphere where the players feel free to try a lot of different techniques without being concerned about winning or losing. Coaching emphasis should be skills and ball control by the individual player. Fewer players are being put on a small field to ensure that each player has a lot of touches of the ball. By extending the small field concept to the Ul0s, we expect the players to have better skills at the U12 level when they should begin to learn tactics.

Saturdays-The Home Team coach is responsible for notifying the Visiting Team coach of game times, time changes, field changes and weather postponements

Game Format

7 v 7 includes Goalkeeper

Field Dimensions/Markings

The field of play shall be rectangular, with a suggested length of 60 yards and a width of 40 yards. The length in all cases shall exceed the width. Fields will vary. Striping: Not more than 5 inches wide. Midfiled line shall be marked across the field. A center circle with a radius of 8 yards. Four corner arcs with a 1 yard radius. Goal area – 6 yards from each goal post and 6 yards into the field of play joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal-line. Penalty area – 14 yards from each goal post and 14 yards into the field of play joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal-line.

Goal Dimension

Maximum 7 feet high and 21 feet wide. Minimum size of 7 feel high and 12 feet wide. Size will vary.

Referees

Center Referee only (Assistant Referees may be used to gain experience)

Minimum Ref Certification

Grade 9

Game Length

65 minutes; two 30 minute halves

Breaks

5 minute half time

# of players

CYSL- A minimum of 7 players must be present to begin play. If 7 players are not present 20 minutes after scheduled start, a forfeit win is awarded to the team with 7 or more players. If both teams have 7 or less players 20 minutes after the scheduled start, then a forfeit loss is assessed to both teams.

Req’d Equipmer

Uniforms and equipment will consist of numbered shirts, shorts, socks, and suitable soccer shoes or sneakers. In cases where the colors conflict, the home team must wear an alternate color shirt or pinnie. All shirts must have clearly legible numbers on back or the original number must be clearly visible through the pinnie with no duplicate numbers. Players will be allowed to wear sweat clothes under their uniforms only if sweat clothes match the colors submitted to league. A player shall not wear anything that is considered by the Referee to be dangerous to themselves or to other players. Players will not be allowed to wear any of the following: earrings, finger rings, barrettes of any type, wrist watches, wrist chains, neck chains, shoes with metal cleats, or casts of any type. Sh i n – g u a r d s a r e m a n d a t o r y Players who must wear glasses during the game must wear a glass strap.

Ball

Size #4. Home team is expected to provide a properly inflated game ball.

Subs

On goal kick by either team, after a goal by either team, half-time, during injury stoppage by either team, prior to your own throw-in, prior to your opponents throw-in if they sub.

An injured player must be substituted when he/she is down and the referee stops the play. Goalkeepers are exempt from this rule. The injured player may return to the game on the next substitution.

Goalies

FIFA/CYSL- An indirect free kick shall be awarded to the opposing team when, a goalkeeper handles the ball within his/her penalty area and throws, punts, or kicks the ball across midfield without making contact with the goalkeepers side of the field or being touched by any player on that side of the field. If a goalkeeper dribbles the ball outside the penalty area or does not play the ball with the hands, then the kick may cross the midfield.

Goal Kicks/Corner Kicks

FIFA/CYSL: An indirect free kick shall be awarded to the opposing team when a goalkeeper and/or field player, when making a goal kick, kicks the ball across midfield without making contact with his/her side of the field or being touched by any player on that side of the field. In both cases, the indirect free kick will be taken at the point of the midfield line where the ball crossed.

Thrown-ins

FIFA

Free Kicks

FIFA/CYSL-The penalty mark is ten (10) yards from the center of the goal line and those players other than the kicker and defending goalkeeper are at least eight (8) yards from the penalty marc.

Kick-offs

FIFA

Required Distance

8 yds

Offside

FIFA

Fouls

FIFA

Coastal Youth Soccer – U12 Boys and Girls (Grades 5-6)

Below are the rules for the U12 9v9 program. These rules are based on a recommended program from the US Youth Soccer plus additions by a CYSL Board of Directors. Advantages of playing small-sided games: More time with coach, Energetic workouts due to playing both offense and defense, More efficient use of field space, Matches can be played simultaneously across a full size field, Children are physically more efficient in smaller space, Children are actively involved for a longer period of time, It takes less time to score a goal or advance to goal, Greater success rate for the players.

Saturdays–The Home Team coach is responsible for notifying the Visiting Team coach of game times, time changes, field changes and weather postponements

Game Format

9 v 9 includes a Goalkeeper

Field Dimensions/Markings

The field of play shall be rectangular, with a suggested length of 70 yards and a width of 55 yards. The length in all cases shall exceed the width. Fields will vary. Striping: Not more than 5 inches wide. Midfiled line shall be marked across the field. A center circle with a radius of 8 yards. Four corner arcs with a 1 yard radius. Goal area – 6 yards from each goal post and 6 yards into the field of play joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal-line. Penalty area – 14 yards from each goal post and 14 yards into the field of play joined by a line drawn parallel with the goal-line.

Goal Dimension

6 feet high by 18 feet wide

Referees

Center Referee and Two Assistant Referees

Minimum Ref Certification

Grade9=Center Referee Grade 8=Assistant Referees

Game Length

65 minutes; two 30 minute halves

Breaks

5 minute half time

# of players

CYSL- A minimum of 6 players must be present to begin play. If 6 players are not present 20 minutes after scheduled start, a forfeit win is awarded to the team with 6 or more players. If both teams have 6 or less players 20 minutes after the scheduled start, then a forfeit loss is assessed to both teams.

Req’d Equipmer

Ball

Size #4. Home team is expected to provide a properly inflated game ball.

Subs

On goal kick by either team, after a goal by either team, half-time, during injury stoppage by either team, prior to your own throw-in, prior to your opponents throw-in if they sub.

An injured player must be substituted when he/she is down and the referee stops the play. Goalkeepers are exempt from this rule. The injured player may return to the game on the next substitution.

Goalies

Goal Kicks/Corner Kicks

Thrown-ins

FIFA

Free Kicks

FIFA/CYSL-The penalty mark is ten (10) yards from the center of the goal line and those players other than the kicker and defending goalkeeper are at least eight (8) yards from the penalty marc.

Kick-offs

FIFA

Required Distance

8 yds

Offside

FIFA

Fouls

FIFA

Coastal Youth Soccer – U14 Boys and Girls (Grades 7-8)

Game Format Suggested Game Times Field Dimensions/Markings Goal Dimensions Referees Minimum Ref Certification Game Length Breaks # of players Req’d Equipment Ball Subs Goalies Goal Kicks/Corner Kicks Thrown-ins Free Kicks Kick-offs Required Distance Offside Fouls Game Format

11 V 11

Suggested Game Times

Saturdays– Girls and Boys U14

The Home Team coach is responsible for notifying the Visiting Team coach of game times, time changes, field changes and weather postponements

Field Dimensions/Markings

FIFA

Goal Dimensions

FIFA

Referees

Center Referee and Two Assistant Referees

Minimum Ref Certification

All Referees Must Be Grade 9

Game Length

75 minutes; two 35 minute halves

Breaks

5 minute half time

# of players

CYSL

Req’d Equipment

CYSL

Ball

Size #5. Home team is expected to provide a properly inflated game ball.

Subs

CYSL-On goal kick by either team, after a goal by either team, half-time, during injury stoppage by either team, prior to your own throw-in, prior to your opponents throw-in if they sub.

Goalies

FIFA

Goal Kicks/Corner Kicks

FIFA

Thrown-ins

FIFA

Free Kicks

FIFA

Kick-offs

FIFA

Required Distance

FIFA

Offside

FIFA

Fouls

FIFA

Select Teams (U12-U14)

PYS Select teams are composed of many of the most advanced PYS players as indicated by performance at the annual Select Team Player Evaluations. These players are chosen to compete against players of similar skill and commitment from other South Shore towns in Division 1 and 2 of the Coastal Youth Soccer League (CYSL). Teams compete for the CYSL Division 1 and 2 titles and a bid to represent CYSL at the annual Massachusetts Tournament of Champions (MTOC).

Being a member of a PYS Select team is a privilege for the most skilled and committed PYS players. It is an opportunity for young developing players to represent the town of Pembroke in the most competitive division of statewide town soccer and requires a significant commitment.
Select teams practice, at least, twice a week and, typically, participate in some form of indoor training and/or league over the winter months; often at an additional cost to the players. Participation in these activities is not mandatory, but they are critical for the improvement of the team, in preparation for the Spring season. Players chosen for the Select teams are expected to participate in these sessions at the same Players who are unable to commit to full participation can adversely affect team play. When players with competing priorities take up a Select team roster spot, a coach’s ability to field a competitive team is limited and team chemistry is adversely affected.
By committing to a Select team, you are tacitly agreeing that your child will at least equally prioritize the Select team with whatever other activities that he/she may have. More Info Expand

Players who have significant conflicts with other activities and cannot equally prioritize the Select Team to the same degree as the conflicting activities should seriously consider playing on a non-Select team. These teams also compete in the CYSL, but in a division requiring a lesser commitment. These teams do not require participation in the tryout, but all players are encouraged to attend player evaluations.

Please be aware that failing to honor this commitment will be unfair to players competing for roster spots and to your team during the season.

Players are chosen to represent Pembroke based on their performance at evaluations. Player evaluations are held in June, annually. There is, typically, one Select team chosen per division. The PYS BOD may determine that fielding a second select team in a division is appropriate. When this occurs, an “A” team and a “B” team, with the “A” team being identified as the stronger of the two will be created.

The evaluation process PYS utilizes to determine which players will form the Select Teams in the U12 and U14 age groups is based on formula’s recommended by MYSA and US Youth Soccer. The process is reviewed annually in the spring by the BOD Rules and Evaluations Committee. Changes and updates are made as necessary to keep the process up to date. Our objective is to impartially evaluate players based on their achievement toward age-appropriate mastery of the four components of the game: Technical, Tactical, Physical and Psychological.

Select Program Coach and Player Selection Procedures – U12 Girls 1 – Meredith McCafferty
– U14 Girls 1 – Adam Fay
– U12 Boys 1 – Dan Zaccardi
– U14 Boys 1 – Mark Williams

U5 Lil Kickers

Our U5 Little Kickers program is designed for our youngest future soccer stars, or any player who wants to run around, have some fun, and make new friends. It is designed for children who have not entered Kindergarten (typically age 3 or 4). We do not set a minimum age for participation, as long as you feel your child is ready to actively participate.

Lil Kickers participate weekly in a 1 hour session, on Saturday mornings at our PYS fields. Parents are encouraged to volunteer to help and welcome to participate.

Players should bring a soccer ball (no larger than Size 3), water bottle and plenty of energy. The program introduces our future players to the game of soccer through fun games. Players are provided a PYS shirt.

If you have any questions regarding the program, or if you’d like to volunteer, please contact Mark Williams, U5 Little Kickers Program Coordinator.

U6 Coed (Kindergarten)

Format Referees Min Ref Certification Game/Session Length Breaks # of players Required Equipment Ball Subs Goalies Goal Kicks/Corner Kicks Thrown-ins Free Kicks Required Distance Offside Fouls Misconduct Format

3 v 3 – dual field

Referees

Coaches may be on the field during matches and act as referees.

Min Ref Certification

none

Game/Session Length 60 minutes: 25 min practice session followed by a 35 minute game.
Game times are generally between 9am-12pm on Saturday mornings. Breaks

At the coaches’ discretion.

# of players

No more or less than 3 v 3.

Required Equipment

Shin pads worn under soccer socks. Cleats or athletic shoes. Visible uniform shirt. No jewelry of any kind. No exposed zippers or hoods. Sweat pants are permitted in inclement weather.

Ball

Size #3. Each team required to provide one properly inflated ball.

Subs

On the fly during play and at the breaks.

Goalies

Goal Kicks/Corner Kicks

GKs-from anywhere along the end line. CKs will be taken from the corner nearest where the ball left the field. All opposing players must be at least 4 yards away at the time of a GK or CK.

Thrown-ins Yes – There is no foul throw violation.
A re-throw with instruction will be awarded for an improper throw-in. Free Kicks

All restarts will be by direct free kick. No Penalty Kicks. No drop ball.

Required Distance

5 yds

Offside

No. But goal hanging should be discouraged by coaches.

Fouls

Coaches will call any fouls. No slide tackles permitted.

Misconduct

No cautions or ejections (yellow or red cards). Players may be given a “timeout” by their own coach for repeated or dangerous fouls or behavior concerns.

Mass Youth Soccer Statewide U6 Curriculum

Age Group: U-6

Games: Games are played on Saturdays; typically, early on Saturday mornings.

Training Expectations: There are no training (practice) expectations at this age division beyond the training time spent before games on Saturday mornings.

Skill Priorities
Dribble with all sides of both feet
Dribble out of trouble
Dribble past someone
Soft first touch

Although sometimes we may mistake 5-6 year-olds for little adults, they are clearly not little adults. They have many years of childhood and development to enjoy before they are able to look at life in a similar fashion to adults. The reason for this is that they need time to intellectually, emotionally, and physically develop. Although we do live in the same world, when seen through our own eyes, the world both adults and children experience is quite different. In order to fully understand these wonderful children and to make practices run as smoothly and happily as possible, it is extremely important for us to understand the following characteristics about U6 children.

focused on themselves – reality to them is solely based on what they see and feel
unable to see the world from another’s perspective – it is “the world according to me” time. Asking them to understand how someone else is seeing something or feels is unrealistic
everything is in the here and now – forget about the past and future, they live in the moment.
heating and cooling systems are less efficient than adults – we need to give frequent water breaks (every 8-10 minutes) or they may just run until they cannot run anymore.
enjoying playing, not watching – they feel no enjoyment from watching others play when they could be playing too. Make sure every player has a ball in practice so every player is always playing
limited attention span (on average 15 seconds for listening, 10-15 minutes when engaged in a task) – keep your directions concise and to the point. When in an open environment, such as a park, their attention span will dwindle towards 10 seconds
effort is synonymous with performance – if they have tried hard, they believe they have done well. This is a wonderful quality and we should be supportive of their enthusiasm.
active imaginations – if we utilize their imaginations in practice activities, they will love practice!
look for adult approval – watch how often players look to you for approval or to see if you are looking. Also be encouraging when they say “Coach, look what I can do!”
unable to think abstractly – asking them to think about spatial relations or runs off the ball is unrealistic
typically have 2 speeds — extremely fast and stopped
usually unaware of game scores – we should keep it that way!!
often like to fall down just because it is fun – they are just children having fun
often cannot identify left foot vs. right foot – they know which foot they use most and if they point to their feet you can help teach them left and right.

The U6 Age Group

The fascination for the ball, the desire to master it and the thrill of scoring goals provides the launching pad into a lifetime of soccer participation. The joy and pleasure of the game are best nurtured by encouraging freedom of expression and organizing children’s play in small groups.

The role of the coach in the U6 age group is as facilitator, friendly helper, organizer, and motivator. The coach should be patient, enthusiastic, and imaginative. The coach should experiment with fun activities that include all players, if possible. The environment and the activities are more important than technical coaching is at this level.

US Soccer 4v4 Grassroots License

The U6 Player Characteristics

Short attention span
Individually oriented…egocentric
Sensitive…Easily bruised psychologically
Love to use their imagination…pretend
Tend to only one task at a time
Can process small bits of information
Immature understanding of time and space relations

Constantly in motion
No sense of pace (full speed ahead)
Easily fatigued with rapid recovery
Eye/hand and eye/foot coordination is primitive
Can balance on good foot
Catching skills are not developed
Love to run, jump, fall and roll
About 36-40 inches in tall
Weigh between 30-50 pounds

Love to show off
Little or no real concern for team activities
Tend to parallel play…play next to but not with a friend or teammate
Influential person in their life is their MOM
Like to mimic goofy actions
Boys and girls are quite similar psychologically and physically at this age.

What to Teach U6 Players (Game Components)

Techniques (skills): Psychology (mental and social): Fitness (movement education): Tactics (decisions): Rules of the game: US Youth Soccer Recommended Modifications to the Game The Training Session Techniques (skills):

Dribbling: Keep the ball close (with toe tops and inside of foot).
Kicking: Kicking the ball at the goal (with toe, inside of foot, and laces).
Trapping: Catching the ball with feet and body.

Psychology (mental and social):

Sharing
Fair play
Dealing with parental involvement (confusion)
“How to play”
Emotional management

Fitness (movement education):

Balance
Running
Jumping
Rolling
Hopping
Skipping

Tactics (decisions):

Where is the field
Moving in the correct direction (which goal to kick at)
Dealing with the ball rolling away
Dealing with the ball rolling toward

Rules of the game:

The kick off
The goal kick
Ball in and out of play
Hand ball
Physical fouls (pushing, holding, striking, tripping)

US Youth Soccer Recommended Modifications to the Game

Playing numbers: 3v3 (no goalkeepers)
Field Dimensions: Length 20-30 yards / Width 15-20 yards
Goal Dimensions: Height 6 feet / Width 18 feet
Duration: Four 8-minute quarters
Ball: Size 3

The Training Session

The training session should involve fun and imaginative game like activities.
Facilitate fun activities that draw out the skill in the player.
Small-sided games such as 1v1, 2v1, 2v2, should be included as well.
Training should always conclude with a 3v3 game without goalkeepers if possible.
The duration of the training session should be 45-60 minutes.

Some Recommended Games for U6 Players:

Tag—Every child dribbles a soccer ball in the space defined while trying to tag other players with their hand. Players cannot leave their own ball. Have them keep count of how many people they have tagged and, if playing twice in a row, see if players can tag more people than they did in the first game. Version 2: Players must tag other players on their knees.
Hospital tag—Same as tag in that each player dribbles a soccer ball and that they try to tag each other with their hands. In this game, each time a player is tagged he/she must place their hand on the spot on their body at which they were tagged. Obviously, if tagged a third time, players have no more hands to cover those spots, so they most go to the hospital to see the doctor. The coach acts as the doctor and performs a magical task (pretend) to heal all the little soccer players so they can continue playing the game.
Red light/Green light—All players have a ball and dribble in a limited space (or towards the coach). When coach says “red light”, players must stop ball and put foot on top of ball. When coach says “yellow light”, players must dribble very slowly. When coach says “green light”, players dribble fast. Coach controls this game with frequency of light changes and variety of changes. Once players catch on to this game, add light of other colors and affix different actions to them. (i.e. purple light = hop back and forth over ball, orange light = run around the ball, black light = dance, blue light = hide behind the ball etc. etc.)
Freeze Tag—Break up the group into two teams. Everyone must dribble their soccer ball, but one team tries to tag (freeze) the other team. If they do tag a player on the other team, that player must freeze, place their ball above their head and spread their legs. Another player on their team must kick his/her ball through the frozen player’s legs to unfreeze the teammate. If all players are frozen, game ends and the frozen team becomes the taggers. Otherwise, stop game after a few minutes and have team reverse roles. Version 2: Coach can be the freeze monster and try to tag all the players with players unfreezing each other in same fashion
Planets—Set up cones into multiple squares or triangles that serve as planets (or cities). All players must follow coach’s order and dribble into the planet he calls out. Coach can have all players follow same directions or break up team so they start at different planet and then have them dribble through the solar system in clockwise or counterclockwise fashion. Coach can have groups dribble in opposite direction through the solar system.
Kangaroo Jack—All players except two or three begin with a ball. Players without balls are kangaroo jacks and must hop like a kangaroo and try to tag players. If a player gets tagged, he/she becomes a kangaroo as well until all players are turned into kangaroos
Snake—In an appropriate space for the numbers you have, have all players dribbling soccer balls except for 2-3 players to start. These players hold hands and work together as one snake to tag the other players, The players with balls try to avoid getting tagged by the snake. If they are tagged, the join hands with players making up the snake the snake grows until all players are part of the snake. The snake must stay together as one animal and not break off into little parts. Encourage fun by having the snake hiss. J
Ball Tag—Similar to other tag games except players try to tag others with their soccer ball instead of their hand. Have them keep count of how many times they kick their soccer ball and tag another person. Have the tag count if their ball hits another player or that player’s ball. Can have the players tag the coach for 10 or 20 points. Then can have players tag other selected players for 50 or 100 points etc. etc. Version 2: Rather than having players tag each other, have them tag the coach by kicking their soccer ball. The coach moves around without a ball to avoid being tagged. Have players count up how many they got and can do the same variations as in the other game by affixing a lot of points to players.
Capture the Balls—Set up three or four “home bases” (squares) with cones roughly 2-3 yards wide. Break up the players into teams and have each team get together in their home base. Place all the balls in the center of the space between the home bases. On the coaches command the teams are free to gather as many soccer balls as they can into their home base. Players cannot use hands and there is no pushing each other or sitting/laying on the balls. Teams try to gather as many balls as possible into their home bases. Teams can steal balls from each others’ home bases. Coach calls time and counts up how many balls are in each space to determine a winner. Coach allows team 1 minute to make up a new team strategy before playing again.
Moving Goal—2 coaches use a pennie or an extra piece of clothing to form a movable goal with each coach serving as a post and the shirt serving as the crossbar. Players each have a ball and try to score by kicking their ball through the goal. However, the coaches constantly move and turn to force the players to keep their head up and to change direction as they dribble.

Programs U7 Boys and Girls (Grade 1)

Format Referees Min Referee Certification Game Length Breaks # of players Required Equipment Ball Subs Goalies Goal Kicks/Corner Kicks Thrown-ins Free Kicks Kick-offs Required Distance Offside Fouls Misconduct Format

4 v 4 – (dual field if numbers warrant)

Referees

A junior referee (Game Manager) will be assigned as Center Ref. Coaches are NOT permitted on the field unless invited by the referee for an injury or other concern.

Min Referee Certification

Age 12 (Game Manager)

Game Length Four 12 min quarters.
Game times are generally between 9am and 3pm on Saturday. Breaks

2 min between quarters. 5 min half

# of players

No more than 4v4, no less than 3v3.

Required Equipment

Shin pads worn under soccer socks. Athletic shoes. Visible uniform shirt. No jewelry of any kind. No exposed zippers or hoods. Sweats are permitted in inclement weather.

Ball

Size #3. Each team required to provide one properly inflated ball.

Subs

At any stoppage of play and at breaks.

Goalies

No Goalies. Players should be discouraged from playing “no hands” goalie.

Goal Kicks/Corner Kicks

GKs will be taken from anywhere inside the marked Goal Box or on the end line if there is no goal box. CKs will be taken from the corner nearest where the ball left the field. All opposing players must be at least 5 yards away.

GKs that cross midfield before touching the ground or another player will result in a free kick for the opposing team from the center spot.

Thrown-ins

Yes. Foul throw will result in a re-throw with instruction.

Free Kicks

All direct. No Penalty Kicks. No restarts may take place in the Goal Box.

Kick-offs

A goal may not be scored directly from a kick-off. A re-kick will be given.

Required Distance

5 yds

Offside

No. Goal hanging should be discouraged.

Fouls

The Referee will call all fouls. No slide tackles are permitted.

Misconduct

No cautions or ejections (yellow or red cards). Players may be given a “timeout” by the referee for repeated or dangerous fouls or behavior concerns.

Mass Youth Soccer Statewide U7 Curriculum

Age Group: U-7/U-8

Games: Games are played on Saturdays; typically, U7 Girls play on Saturday mornings and U7 Boys on Saturday afternoons

Training Expectations: Teams are expected to hold a training (practice) session once a week; typically, between 5:00 – 7:30pm at the discretion of the coach.

Dribble with all sides of both feet
Dribble out of trouble
Dribble past someone
Shielding
Soft first touch
Introduce proper shooting technique
Introduce passing

Although U8 children may begin to be far more physically advanced and mature than U6 children, we must remain patient and not try to force them to develop too quickly. Dribbling still needs to be the primary focus of our efforts, though passing and shooting should be introduced at this age as well. U8 players tend to work best when in pairs and we should allow them to work in pairs (coach selected) often. Similar to the U6 children, we need to make sure that fun is a central theme in practice. Player development will occur most appropriately and expeditiously if all players are enjoying themselves.

Typical Characteristics of U8 Players

tend to play well in pairs – unlike 6 year-olds, these children enjoy playing in pairs. Try to set up the pairs yourself to control the games and manage the personalities
are now able to take another’s perspective – they now have a sense of how other’s are feeling
still unable to think abstractly – still do not have this capability, be patient
heating and cooling system still less efficient than adults – still make sure to give frequent water breaks
still much prefer playing to watching – keep everyone active during practice and remember, no lines
limited attention span (on average 15-20 seconds for listening, up to 20 minutes when engaged in a task) – this may vary greatly on any given day depending on school, diet, etc. Try to get a gauge each day and do not fight crankiness
have an understanding of time and sequence – they now understand “if I do this, then that happens”
many have incorporated a third or fourth speed into play – not all players, but many players now have incorporated a speed or two between stopped and as fast as possible
extremely aware of adult reactions – be very aware of your verbal and nonverbal reactions, as they look for your reaction frequently
seek out adult approval – be supportive when they ask about their performance or try to show you skills. They very much need reassurance and you need to help build their confidence to try new things at this age
begin to become aware of peer perception – a social order is beginning to develop. Be sensitive to this
wide range of abilities between children at this age – children all develop at varying paces. You may have an 8 year-old who seems more like a 10 year-old and one that seems more like a 6 year-old on the same team. Your challenge to is to manage this range in your practice in a way that challenges each player at a level that is reasonable for that player
some will keep score – the competitive motors churn faster in some than others. Surely some parents are fueling the motors with their own. Regardless, we do not need to stress winning and losing at this age. Results should not be important at this age
beginning to develop motor memories – by attempting fundamental technical skills they are training their bodies to remember certain movements
less active imaginations than U6 players – still have active imaginations by adult standards, but some of the silliness that 6 year-olds allowed will not be appreciated by this group. Still use their imaginations, just watch their reactions to games to read how far you can go with things.

The U7 Age Group

This is the age where players can begin to understand the concept of working with a teammate. The notion, or willingness, to intentionally pass the ball to someone is just beginning to take hold. Coaches and parents will have more success encouraging players to pass the ball in the seven to eight year old age group. In this age group, the player begins to think beyond their personal needs and actively begins to cooperate with a teammate. However, players in this age group must continue individual ball work.

The role of the coach in the U8 age group is to be a sensitive and patient teacher with an enthusiastic and imaginative approach. It is helpful if they have the ability to demonstrate and very important that they understand technique.

US Soccer 4v4 Grassroots License

The U8 Player Characteristics

Short attention span, but better than U6
Love to use their imagination…pretend
Limited ability to attend to more than one task at a time
Beginning to solve simple soccer problems (i.e. pass to a teammate)
Some understanding of time and space relations

Beginning to develop physical coordination
Improvement in pace regulation
Skeletal system is growing; growth plates near joints
Cardiovascular system is less efficient than an adult’s; heart rate peaks sooner and takes longer to recover
Catching skills are still not developed
Improvement in dribbling and kicking
Love to run, jump, fall and roll

Self-concept and body image are beginning to develop
Sensitive…dislike personal failure in front of peers
Negative comments from peers and adults carry great weight
Limited experience with personal evaluation…effort is synonymous with successful performance
Inclined more toward cooperative activities (small groups)
Inclined to establish and cooperate with friends
Desire social acceptance; want everyone to like them
Influential person in their life is their father or significant parent
Like to play soccer because it is FUN; intrinsically motivated; play for enjoyment

What to Teach U8 Players (Game Components)

Techniques (skills): Psychology (mental and social): Fitness (movement education): Tactics (decisions): Rules of the game: US Youth Soccer Modifications to the game The Training Session Techniques (skills):

Dribbling: inside/outside of the foot. Change of speed and direction
Receiving: Ground balls with inside, outside, and sole of foot.
Bouncing balls with various body parts. Ball lifting and juggling
Passing: With top of the toe, inside of foot and laces
Throw-ins: Two hands over the head, feet need to stay on the ground
Shooting: With toe, inside of foot and laces
Tackling: Poke Tackle
Catching/Throwing (GK): Self-catch and toss from a partner.
Rolling, bouncing, and air balls.

Psychology (mental and social):

Working in pairs
Sportsmanship
Dealing with parental involvement
“How to play” (social cooperation)
Emotional management

Fitness (movement education):

Introduce the idea of warm-up
Agility
Leaping
Tumbling
Eye/foot & eye/hand coordination

Tactics (decisions):

Being exposed to all positions
1v1 attacking
1v1 defending
2v1 attacking
Introduce the names of positions
Shape (triangles)

Rules of the game:

Review the kick off
Review the goal kick
Review hand ball
Review physical fouls (pushing, holding, striking, tripping)
The corner kick
Direct kicks
Throw-ins

US Youth Soccer Modifications to the game

Playing numbers: 4v4
Field Dimensions: Length 25-35 yards / Width 20-30 yards
Goal Dimensions: Height 6 feet / Width 18 feet
Duration: four 12-minute quarters
Ball: Size 3

The Training Session

The training session should involve fun and imaginative game like activities.
Light coaching on simple technique is appropriate (dribbling, passing and receiving)
Small-sided directional games such as 1v1, 2v1, 2v2, 3v2, and 3v3 should be included as well.
Training should always conclude with a 4v4 game without goalkeepers.
The duration of the training session should be 60-75 minutes.

Free Dribble—Everyone with a ball, use inside, outside, and sole of the foot. Have players dribble with speed (outside of foot), change direction, and perform moves. Coach calls out moves or changes in direction and sets the pace as the manipulator of the session, kids carry the ball towards someone and try a move. Version 2: As players get comfortable, coach can walk around and put pressure on players as they are performing dribbling tasks. This adds fun and interaction.
Knock Out—In same space as previous activity, have players dribble balls while trying to knock other player’s balls outside of the grid. Players can never leave their own ball. If their ball gets knocked out have them retrieve it quickly and get back into the game. (You may wish to have them perform a skills task before re-entering such as 10 toe touches or juggling 5 times).
Shield-Steal—Half of players in the group have a ball and half do not. If you do not have a ball you need to steal one from someone who does. If ball goes out of bounds, person who touched it last does not get possession. You can teach players the technical points of shielding as a group at start of activity. Show technique with body sideways, arm providing protection, ball on outside foot, knees bent, turning as defender attacks, using feel to understand where defender is going. Fix technical shielding errors throughout this activity and make sure entire group knows how to properly shield.
Marbles—Players are in pairs, each with a ball. This time instead of chasing each other, one player plays out his ball and the partner passes his own ball in an attempt to strike the ball his partner played out. Players should keep track of how many times they hit their partner’s ball. Version 2: Once players understand this game, make it fast paced by having the players take turns at trying to hit each other’s ball without ever stopping. If player 2 misses player 1’s ball, then player 1 immediately runs to his own ball and tries to hit player 2’s ball (player 2 does not get to touch his ball after missing player 1’s ball). After player 1 has a chance, then player 2 immediately tries to hit player 1’s ball right back. etc. etc. This game is continuous and players should keep score. Hint: If 2 balls are very close to each other a player should kick their ball hard at the other ball so when they hit it, it is more difficult for the other to hit their ball back.
Gates Passing—Players are paired up and must successfully pass the ball through the cones to their teammate to earn a point. Players try to accumulate as many points as possible in the time allotted. Have players pass only with their left foot or right foot, or the outside of their foot.
Triangle Tag—Set up cones in a triangle formation with each side of the triangle being roughly 1 yard long. Every triangle has a pair of players, each with a ball. Similar to the tag game, one player is being chased and one is “it”. However this time the player who is “it” tags the player by kicking her ball and hitting the other player’s ball or hitting the player below the knee. Players can dribble in either direction around the triangle and must stay close to their own triangle. Neither play can go through the triangle. Version 2: Allow the player being chased to go through the triangle. When in the triangle she is safe. However, after going through triangle, player must go completely around triangle before she can go through triangle again. She cannot stop inside the triangle. Version 3: Allow pairs to move from triangle to triangle (incorporates speed dribbling and traffic). If two pairs are at the same triangle at the same time that is fine, but players still only compete with their partner. Note: To increase difficulty, do not count hitting a player below the knee as a tag.
Get Outta Here—Place two small (2 yard) goals at the end of a field 15 x 10 yards. Place half of team behind each goal and coach stands at halfway line with all balls. When coach plays out a ball the first two players run out and try to score on each other’s goal. If the ball goes in the goal or out of bounds, the coach yells “get outta here” and plays in a new ball immediately for the next two players. Version 2: Coach can stop yelling “get outta here” after a while and see if players recognize when balls go out and are attentive. Version 3: Coach can vary service of ball. Sometimes play it to one player, sometimes toss the ball up in the air. Version 4: Have the first two or three players from each group come out each time a new ball is played and play 2 vs. 2 or 3 vs. 3.
Clean Your Backyard— Break group into two teams and have each team stay only on their half of the field. Place a 6 yard buffer zone between halves that no one can enter or cross. Each player needs a ball. Place three small (2-3yd) goals at the far end of each side of the field. Have both teams shoot balls at other team’s goals in an attempt to score through anyone of the small goals (below knee height). Players cannot cross the buffer zone or go into the other half. Balls get recycled naturally in the game. This is a competition and teams need to keep score. Play 2 or 3 games and have teams re-strategize between each game. Teams can play defense though no hands. Only shots with laces count as goals.
2 vs.1 keepaway—In a grid 10×15 yds, three players play 2 vs. 1 continuous keepaway. Two attackers combine to keep the ball away from one defender. When the defender wins the ball, he or she immediately combines with the attacker he or she did not win the ball from and the attacker who lost the ball becomes the defender. Balls out of play are dribbled in or passed in.
1 vs.1 to Endlines—In a space that is wider than long (15 x 20 yds) each player defends one endline and attacks the other. Players score by dribbling the ball in control over the opposing player’s endline. Version 2: You can make this 2 vs. 2, 3 vs. 3 or 4 vs. 4.

******************* Every practice should include a scrimmage***********************

Programs U8 Boys and Girls (Grade 2)

Format Referees Min Ref Certification Game Length Breaks # of players Required Equipment Ball Subs Goalies Goal Kicks/Corner Kicks Thrown-ins Free Kicks Kick-offs Required Distance Offside Fouls Misconduct Format

5 v 5 – dual field

Referees

A junior referee (Game Manager) will be assigned as Center Ref. Coaches are NOT permitted on the field unless invited by the referee for an injury or other concern.

Min Ref Certification

Age 12 (Game Manager)

Game Length Four 12 min quarters.
Game times are generally between 9am and 3pm on Saturday. Breaks

2 min between quarters. 5 min half time.

# of players

No more than 5v5, no less than 3v3.

Required Equipment

Shin pads worn under soccer socks. Cleats or athletic shoes. Visible uniform shirt. No jewelry of any kind. No exposed zippers or hoods.

Ball

Size #3. Each team required to provide one properly inflated ball.

Subs

At any stoppages of play and at breaks.

Goalies

Yes – Goalies may not play the ball with their hands if it is passed to them by a teammate. This will result in a free kick for the opposing team from the center spot. Goalie throws or punts that cross midfield before touching the ground or another player will result in a free kick for the opposing team from the center spot.

Goal Kicks/Corner Kicks

GKs will be taken from anywhere inside the marked Goal Box. CKs will be taken from the corner nearest where the ball left the field. All opposing players must be at least 5 yards away.

GKs that cross midfield before touching the ground or another player will result in a free kick for the opposing team from the center spot.

Thrown-ins

Yes – Foul throws will result in one re-throw then loss of possession.

Free Kicks

All direct. No Penalty Kicks. All free kicks to be taken from the center spot.

Kick-offs

A goal may NOT be scored directly from a kick-off. A re-kick is given.

Required Distance

5 yds

Offside

No. Goal hanging should be discouraged by coaches.

Fouls

The Referee will call all fouls. No slide tackles are permitted.

Misconduct

No cautions or ejections (yellow or red cards). Players may be given a “timeout” by the referee for repeated or dangerous fouls or behavior concerns.

Mass Youth Soccer Statewide U8 Curriculum

Age Group: U-8

Games: Games are played on Saturdays; typically, U8 Girls play on Saturday mornings and U8 Boys on Saturday afternoons

Training Expectations: Teams are expected to hold a training (practice) session once a week; typically between 5:00 – 7:30pm

Dribble with all sides of both feet
Dribble out of trouble
Dribble past someone
Shielding
Soft first touch
Introduce proper shooting technique
Introduce passing

tend to play well in pairs – unlike 6 year-olds, these children enjoy playing in pairs. Try to set up the pairs yourself to control the games and manage the personalities
are now able to take another’s perspective – they now have a sense of how other’s are feeling
still unable to think abstractly – still do not have this capability, be patient
heating and cooling system still less efficient than adults – still make sure to give frequent water breaks
still much prefer playing to watching – keep everyone active during practice and remember, no lines
limited attention span (on average 15-20 seconds for listening, up to 20 minutes when engaged in a task) – this may vary greatly on any given day depending on school, diet, etc. Try to get a gauge each day and do not fight crankiness
have an understanding of time and sequence – they now understand “if I do this, then that happens”
many have incorporated a third or fourth speed into play – not all players, but many players now have incorporated a speed or two between stopped and as fast as possible
extremely aware of adult reactions – be very aware of your verbal and nonverbal reactions, as they look for your reaction frequently
seek out adult approval – be supportive when they ask about their performance or try to show you skills. They very much need reassurance and you need to help build their confidence to try new things at this age
begin to become aware of peer perception – a social order is beginning to develop. Be sensitive to this
wide range of abilities between children at this age – children all develop at varying paces. You may have an 8 year-old who seems more like a 10 year-old and one that seems more like a 6 year-old on the same team. Your challenge to is to manage this range in your practice in a way that challenges each player at a level that is reasonable for that player
some will keep score – the competitive motors churn faster in some than others. Surely some parents are fueling the motors with their own. Regardless, we do not need to stress winning and losing at this age. Results should not be important at this age
beginning to develop motor memories – by attempting fundamental technical skills they are training their bodies to remember certain movements
less active imaginations than U6 players – still have active imaginations by adult standards, but some of the silliness that 6 year-olds allowed will not be appreciated by this group. Still use their imaginations, just watch their reactions to games to read how far you can go with things.

The U8 Age Group

US Soccer 4v4 Grassroots License

The U8 Player Characteristics

Short attention span, but better than U6
Love to use their imagination…pretend
Limited ability to attend to more than one task at a time
Beginning to solve simple soccer problems (i.e. pass to a teammate)
Some understanding of time and space relations

Beginning to develop physical coordination
Improvement in pace regulation
Skeletal system is growing; growth plates near joints
Cardiovascular system is less efficient than an adult’s; heart rate peaks sooner and takes longer to recover
Catching skills are still not developed
Improvement in dribbling and kicking
Love to run, jump, fall and roll

Self-concept and body image are beginning to develop
Sensitive…dislike personal failure in front of peers
Negative comments from peers and adults carry great weight
Limited experience with personal evaluation…effort is synonymous with successful performance
Inclined more toward cooperative activities (small groups)
Inclined to establish and cooperate with friends
Desire social acceptance; want everyone to like them
Influential person in their life is their father or significant parent
Like to play soccer because it is FUN; intrinsically motivated; play for enjoyment

What to Teach U8 Players (Game Components)

Dribbling: inside/outside of the foot. Change of speed and direction
Receiving: Ground balls with inside, outside, and sole of foot.
Bouncing balls with various body parts. Ball lifting and juggling
Passing: With top of the toe, inside of foot and laces
Throw-ins:
Shooting: With toe, inside of foot and laces
Tackling: Poke Tackle
Catching/Throwing (GK): Self-catch and toss from a partner.
Rolling, bouncing, and air balls.

Psychology (mental and social):

Working in pairs
Sportsmanship
Dealing with parental involvement
“How to play” (social cooperation)
Emotional management

Fitness (movement education):

Introduce the idea of warm-up
Agility
Leaping
Tumbling
Eye/foot & eye/hand coordination

Tactics (decisions):

Being exposed to all positions
1v1 attacking
1v1 defending
2v1 attacking
Introduce the names of positions
Shape (triangles)

Rules of the game:

Review the kick off
Review the goal kick
Review hand ball
Review physical fouls (pushing, holding, striking, tripping)
The corner kick
Direct kicks
Throw-ins

US Youth Soccer Modifications to the game

Playing numbers: 4v4
Field Dimensions: Length 25-35 yards / Width 20-30 yards
Goal Dimensions: Height 6 feet / Width 18 feet
Duration: four 12-minute quarters
Ball: Size 3

The Training Session

The training session should involve fun and imaginative game like activities.
Light coaching on simple technique is appropriate (dribbling, passing and receiving)
Small-sided directional games such as 1v1, 2v1, 2v2, 3v2, and 3v3 should be included as well.
Training should always conclude with a 4v4 game without goalkeepers.
The duration of the training session should be 60-75 minutes.

Free Dribble—Everyone with a ball, use inside, outside, and sole of the foot. Have players dribble with speed (outside of foot), change direction, and perform moves. Coach calls out moves or changes in direction and sets the pace as the manipulator of the session, kids carry the ball towards someone and try a move. Version 2: As players get comfortable, coach can walk around and put pressure on players as they are performing dribbling tasks. This adds fun and interaction.
Knock Out—In same space as previous activity, have players dribble balls while trying to knock other player’s balls outside of the grid. Players can never leave their own ball. If their ball gets knocked out have them retrieve it quickly and get back into the game. (You may wish to have them perform a skills task before re-entering such as 10 toe touches or juggling 5 times).
Shield-Steal—Half of players in the group have a ball and half do not. If you do not have a ball you need to steal one from someone who does. If ball goes out of bounds, person who touched it last does not get possession. You can teach players the technical points of shielding as a group at start of activity. Show technique with body sideways, arm providing protection, ball on outside foot, knees bent, turning as defender attacks, using feel to understand where defender is going. Fix technical shielding errors throughout this activity and make sure entire group knows how to properly shield.
Marbles—Players are in pairs, each with a ball. This time instead of chasing each other, one player plays out his ball and the partner passes his own ball in an attempt to strike the ball his partner played out. Players should keep track of how many times they hit their partner’s ball. Version 2: Once players understand this game, make it fast paced by having the players take turns at trying to hit each other’s ball without ever stopping. If player 2 misses player 1’s ball, then player 1 immediately runs to his own ball and tries to hit player 2’s ball (player 2 does not get to touch his ball after missing player 1’s ball). After player 1 has a chance, then player 2 immediately tries to hit player 1’s ball right back. etc. etc. This game is continuous and players should keep score. Hint: If 2 balls are very close to each other a player should kick their ball hard at the other ball so when they hit it, it is more difficult for the other to hit their ball back.
Gates Passing—Players are paired up and must successfully pass the ball through the cones to their teammate to earn a point. Players try to accumulate as many points as possible in the time allotted. Have players pass only with their left foot or right foot, or the outside of their foot.
Triangle Tag—Set up cones in a triangle formation with each side of the triangle being roughly 1 yard long. Every triangle has a pair of players, each with a ball. Similar to the tag game, one player is being chased and one is “it”. However this time the player who is “it” tags the player by kicking her ball and hitting the other player’s ball or hitting the player below the knee. Players can dribble in either direction around the triangle and must stay close to their own triangle. Neither play can go through the triangle. Version 2: Allow the player being chased to go through the triangle. When in the triangle she is safe. However, after going through triangle, player must go completely around triangle before she can go through triangle again. She cannot stop inside the triangle. Version 3: Allow pairs to move from triangle to triangle (incorporates speed dribbling and traffic). If two pairs are at the same triangle at the same time that is fine, but players still only compete with their partner. Note: To increase difficulty, do not count hitting a player below the knee as a tag.
Get Outta Here—Place two small (2 yard) goals at the end of a field 15 x 10 yards. Place half of team behind each goal and coach stands at halfway line with all balls. When coach plays out a ball the first two players run out and try to score on each other’s goal. If the ball goes in the goal or out of bounds, the coach yells “get outta here” and plays in a new ball immediately for the next two players. Version 2: Coach can stop yelling “get outta here” after a while and see if players recognize when balls go out and are attentive. Version 3: Coach can vary service of ball. Sometimes play it to one player, sometimes toss the ball up in the air. Version 4: Have the first two or three players from each group come out each time a new ball is played and play 2 vs. 2 or 3 vs. 3.
Clean Your Backyard— Break group into two teams and have each team stay only on their half of the field. Place a 6 yard buffer zone between halves that no one can enter or cross. Each player needs a ball. Place three small (2-3yd) goals at the far end of each side of the field. Have both teams shoot balls at other team’s goals in an attempt to score through anyone of the small goals (below knee height). Players cannot cross the buffer zone or go into the other half. Balls get recycled naturally in the game. This is a competition and teams need to keep score. Play 2 or 3 games and have teams re-strategize between each game. Teams can play defense though no hands. Only shots with laces count as goals.
2 vs. 1 keepaway—In a grid 10×15 yds, three players play 2 vs. 1 continuous keepaway. Two attackers combine to keep the ball away from one defender. When the defender wins the ball, he or she immediately combines with the attacker he or she did not win the ball from and the attacker who lost the ball becomes the defender. Balls out of play are dribbled in or passed in.
1 vs. 1 to Endlines—In a space that is wider than long (15 x 20 yds) each player defends one endline and attacks the other. Players score by dribbling the ball in control over the opposing player’s endline. Version 2: You can make this 2 vs. 2, 3 vs. 3 or 4 vs. 4.

******************* Every practice should include a scrimmage***********************

U10 Boys and Girls (Grades 3-4) In-Town (Fall only)

Game Format Referees Min Referee Certification Game Length Breaks # of players Required Equipment Ball Subs Goalies Goal Kicks/Corner Kicks Thrown-ins Free Kicks Kick-offs Required Distance Offside Fouls Game Format

7 v 7

Referees

Center Referee only (Assistant Referees may be assigned to games to provided them will experience)

Min Referee Certification

Grade 9

Game Length

65 minutes; two 30 minute halves. Game times are generally between 9am – Noon

Breaks

5 minute half time

# of players

No more than 7 v 7; no less than 5 players to be an official game.

Required Equipment

Shin Pads worn under soccer socks. Athletic shoes, soccer cleats recommended. Visible uniform shirt, shorts, soccer socks. No jewelry of any kind. No football or baseball cleats permitted. No baseball caps. Eye glasses must have straps. No uncovered zippers.

Ball

Size #4. Home team is expected to provide a properly inflated game ball.

Subs

On goal kick by either team, after a goal by either team, half-time, during injury stoppage by either team, prior to your own throw-in, prior to your opponent’s throw-in if they sub.

Goalies

Yes – Any goal keeper distibution (punt or throw) that crosses midfield before touching the ground or another player will result in a direct free kick from the center spot. Goalies may not play the ball with their hands if it is passed to them by a teammate. This will result in an indirect free kick from the spot of the foul.

Goal Kicks/Corner Kicks

FIFA PLUS: a goal kick that crosses midfield before touching the ground or another player will result in a direct free kick from the center spot for the opposing team.

Thrown-ins

FIFA

Free Kicks

FIFA

Kick-offs

FIFA

Required Distance

8 yds

Offside

FIFA

Fouls

FIFA – only use your cards in extreme cases. Explain offenses.

Mass Youth Soccer Statewide U10 Curriculum

Age Group: U10

Skill Priorities

Continue with dribbling focus from U8
Passing with inside and outside of both feet
Shooting with both feet—using laces
Receiving the ball with all parts of body

Basic Attacking Ideas
Basic Defending Ideas
Comprehend 1 v 1 concepts
Comprehend 2 v 1 concepts
Introduction to 2 v 2 concepts
Comprehend roles of 1st and 2nd defenders
Comprehend roles of 1st and 2nd attackers

As we move up the age ladder from the U8 level to the U10 level there are many differences we must attend to in order to provide an optimal experience for young players of this age. However, there are also many similarities. Just as in parenting, it is important to be consistent in coaching and we must make sure that we follow a progressive trend of development for young players. To this ends, we need to continue to focus on technique during our practices, as we did at the younger ages. Creating environments in which players get maximum repetitions of technical skills is key. Players at this age should still work on ball mastery and demonstrate growing familiarity and comfort with a ball at their feet.

Typical Characteristics of U10 Players

attention span lengthens from U8—they start to show the ability to sequence thought and actions
they start to think ahead and think “If this, then that”
they are more inclined towards wanting to play soccer rather than being told to play
demonstrate increased self-responsibility – bringing a ball, water and all gear should now be their complete responsibility
they start to recognize fundamental tactical concepts
children at this age begin to become aware of peer pressure
players greatly affiliate with their team or their coach-“I play for the Tigers” or “I play for coach Amy’s team”
players at this age are extremely rule bound-remember each rule you create is the equivalent of a bar in the prison in which you would like to live
there is a wide continuum of maturity evident on most teams this is still a crucial age for technical skill development

The U10 Age Group

The motivation to learn basic skills is very high at this age level. Children gradually begin to change from being self-centered to being self-critical and develop the need for group and/or team games. The game itself should be central to all skills training. Small-sided games continue to be the method of choice for this age group. This is an appropriate time to introduce some of the basic

Principles of play:

Attacking Principles
Penetration
Support
Mobility
Width
Depth (length)
Improvisation (deception, creativity)
Recovery (Immediate Chase)
Pressure
Cover
Balance
Compactness
Counter Attack

Role of Coach

The role of the coach in the U10 age group is to be a patient and motivating teacher. At this level, in addition to understanding technique, coaches should be able to provide environments conducive to problem solving (decision-making) by the players utilizing guided discovery methods.

License Recommendation

US Soccer Grassroots 7v7 License

The U10 Player Characteristics

Lengthened attention span
Ability to sequence thought and actions; begin to think in advance of the ball…anticipate
Ability to remember, follow more complex instructions and solve higher-level problems (i.e. simple combination play)
Developing ability to focus and stay on task
More understanding of time and space relations

Gain a tremendous amount of physical strength, endurance and power; this is related to body size and muscle mass
Motor performance includes a variety of motor tasks that require speed, balance, flexibility, explosive strength and muscular endurance; pace factor is developing quite well
Gross and small fine motor skills becoming refined
Children this age are in a linear growth mode (head to toe)
Height can approach 5 feet and weight can approach 80 pounds

Self-concept and body image are important
Less Sensitive…but still dislike personal failure in front of peers
Begin to initiate play on their own…they want to play
Becoming more serious about their play
Inclined more toward small group and team activities
Peer group attachment and pressure becoming significant
Adults outside the family become influential (coach, teacher, etc.)
Gender differences becoming more apparent

What to Teach U10 Players (Game Components)

Techniques (skills): Goalkeeping (skills) Psychology (mental and social): Fitness (conditioning): Tactics (decisions): Rules: The Training Session Techniques (skills):

Running with the Ball: At speed. Under pressure.
Passing: With outside of the foot. With head.
Instep Drive: Shooting.Crossing.
Receiving Ground Balls: Inside/Outside of Foot. Away from pressure. Past an opponent.
Receiving Air Balls: With the Instep (cushion) and sole, inside and outside of the foot (wedge)
Throw-In: Short and long distances
Moves in Dribbling: Half-turns. Step-overs.
Introduce Heading: Juggling (alone and in small groups). Feet in contact with the ground Introduction to jump heading.
Tackling: Balance foot and contact foot (block tackle)

Goalkeeping (skills)

Ready Stance for Goalkeepers: Foot positioning. Body posture.
“W” Grip: Positioning of thumbs. Fingers spread.
How to Hold a Ball After a Save: Ball to chest. Forearm protection.
Catching Shots at the Keeper: Body alignment path of ball
Punting: Distance and accuracy
Throwing: Bowling, Over-arm.
Goal Kicks: Distance and accuracy

Psychology (mental and social):

Working in groups of 3-6
Staying focused for one entire half
Sensitivity; learning how to win, lose or draw gracefully
Sportsmanship
How to handle parental involvement
Communication; emotional management

Fitness (conditioning):

Endurance
Range of motion-flexibility
Proper warm-up is now mandatory
Introduce cool-down

Tactics (decisions):

Roles of 1st attacker and defender
Roles of 2nd attackers and defenders
2v1 attacking (simple combinations)
Man-to-man defending
Throw-ins to teammate’s feet
Introduction to the tactics of set plays/restarts (goal kicks, corner kicks, other free kicks)
Introduction to setting up walls

Rules:

Review Fouls and Misconduct

The Training Session

The training session should involve fun and imaginative game like activities, as well as technical and tactical repetitive activities.
Coaching technical skills is very important at this age as well as light tactical concepts.
The training session has a technical and/or tactical theme (focus). For example: dribbling technique, or passing and receiving, or combination play.
Small-sided directional games such as 3v3, 4v3, 4v4, 5v4 and 5v5 should be included as well.
Training should always conclude with a 6v6 game with goalkeepers if possible (5 field players and 1 goalkeeper on each team).
The duration of the training session should be 75-90 minutes.

Free Dribble—Everyone with a ball, use inside, outside, and sole of the foot. Have players dribble with speed (outside of foot), change direction, and perform moves. Coach calls out moves or changes in direction and sets the pace as the manipulator of the session, kids carry the ball towards someone and try a move. Version 2: As players get comfortable, coach can walk around and put pressure on players as they are performing dribbling tasks. This adds fun and interaction. Version 3: Make the game a knockout game in which players try to knock each other’s balls out of the grid while maintaining possession of their own. Note: You may wish to have them perform a skills task before re-entering such as 10 toe touches or juggling 5 times. You do not want players sitting out.
Shield-Steal—Half of players in the group have a ball and half do not. If you do not have a ball you need to steal one from someone who does. If ball goes out of bounds, person who touched it last does not get possession. You can teach players the technical points of shielding as a group at start of activity. Show technique with body sideways, arm providing protection, ball on outside foot, knees bent, turning as defender attacks, using feel to understand where defender is going. Fix technical shielding errors throughout this activity and make sure entire group knows how to properly shield.
Gates Passing—Same set up as previous game. However players are now paired up and must successfully pass the ball through the cones to their teammate to earn a point. Again, players try to accumulate as many points as possible in the time allotted. Similar to previous game, have them pass only with their left foot or right foot, or the outside of their foot.
1 vs. 1 To lines—In a grid 10×10 yards, players line up on opposite sides. The first player in each line alternates attacking the player opposite them. When the attacker dribbles over the line they score a goal. If the defender wins the ball he or she can counter attack to the opposite line to also score a goal. The players switch to the opposite line if a goal is scored or the ball goes out of bounds. The coach rotates the lines so all players get to compete against each other. Version 2: Make the grid larger and make this a 2 vs. 2 or a 3 vs. 3 game.
1 vs. 1 To Two Small Goals—Same grids as above except now there is a three foot goal in the middle of each line. Attackers try to score by passing the ball through the goal. Defenders can counter attack to the opposite goal if they win the ball. Players switch sides after a goal or the ball goes out of bounds. The coach rotates the lines so all players get to compete against each other.
2 vs. 2 to Four Cross Goals—Teams defend one goal and have the opportunity to score on the other three, you must dribble through a goal to score a point. The goals are on the ends of a large cross in a square grid roughly 10yd X 10yd. Have one team of 2 on deck, they come on when a team gets scored on twice. Game is continuous, they must run on immediately.
2 vs. 2 To Four Small Goals—In a 15 X 15 yard grid with a small goal in each corner teams of two attack the two opposite goals and defend their two goals. The coach will set up as many grids as needed to accommodate the players. When the ball goes out of bounds it can be passed or dribbled in to play. The teams should be rotated every three minutes until all groups have played against each other. Version 2: 3 vs. 3 in a 20 X 25 yard grid. Teams should show a triangle shape in attack.
4 vs. 4 Endzone Game—Teams comprised of 4-6 players depending on numbers and space. To score you must pass the ball to a teammate into the opponent’s end zone (created with discs). The player cannot go into the endzone until after the ball has been passed. Stress recognizing opportunities and timing of passes.
Triangle Goal Game—Make a triangle with three cones in the center if the field. The sides of the triangle each serve as a goal mouth so teams can shoot at three different goals. Place 2 goalies in the triangle and the 2 goalies must protect the three goal mouths. Two even teams play a normal soccer game, except they both can score on any of the three faces of the triangle for a point. The game is continuous and if a goalie catches the ball he just throws it out so the game continues. Version 2: Use two balls at the same time.
4 vs. 4 To Four Small Goals—In a 30 X 35 yard grid, the same rules as 3 vs. 3 but now players must show a diamond shape in attack.

******************* Every practice should include a scrimmage***********************

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