U12 Training Reflection (1.27.22)

Principle: Possession

Sub-Principle: Build-Up from the Back

Sub-Sub Principle: Positional Balance, Switching Play through a Pivot, Tempo

Part One: Technical Activation

Our technical activation this week was to introduce certain movements and rotations players can make during throw-ins. We focus on a triangular rotation between the striker and CMs, the CB is also always available for the throw-in backwards to feet. The key principle for the throw-ins is to get the ball out of the "pressure zone" either by throwing down the line, turning and playing away or playing a backwards pass to switch away.

The players picked it up and there was more movement during the practice but if this is not enforced the players will forget it. I will make a small video that summarizes the movements so the players can keep the rotations fresh in memory.

Second Part - Tactical Game

Prior to beginning the second part I showed the players quick video clips of when we performed good examples of playing with the GK. I feel that this is something we have lost in recent games so it was critical to reinforce these habits back. For the second part we went straight into our tactical game by playing a 8v4 positional game. The objective of the game was to score points by playing with the GK and shifting it from side to side, if the recovering team won the ball, they were able to score on either goal and we had to work together as a team to pressure and win the ball back.

The second group kept possession exceptionally well and shifted the ball back and forth 4-5 times without interruption. Its critical we continue to reinforce that we are here to play and be the protagonists of games.

We are complaining a lot of teams and silly things. This needs to be addressed at a collective and individual level.

SSG

In the final instance I let the players play a free sided game, there was some good connections and sequences of play. This is the style that we need to continue to promote.

For next training session:

- Team talk: Express how proud I am of this group, for the things we have achieved, the way the group is, and my belief that we are the team that plays the best soccer and have the most talent

- Team talk: However disappointed, the attitude on Monday and how we complain during games and practice - if we want to have another good season the intensity needs to improve

- Discussion and training of the attacking shape