Skill Priorities
· Continue to develop skills from previous age group
· Speed dribbling in traffic
· Ability to pass the ball in the air
· Accurately play long passes
· Offensive and defensive heading
· Shooting with power and accuracy
Tactical Priorities
· Communication
· Basic support positions
· Receiving the ball away from pressure
· Combination play
· How and when to switch the point of attack
· Defensive pressure v containing
· Proper 2 v 2 roles
· Introduction to all roles in 3 v 3
The phase this age group is entering is often referred to as the dawn of tactics. Typically players of this age begin to understand the basic tactical situations of the game and are more aware of movement off the ball and the reasons for tactical choices. Problem solving becomes systematic and players tend to learn quickly. Children of this age are beginning to develop abstract awareness, so they can understand when we talk about ‘space’ and ‘runs off of the ball.’ However, just because they understand basic tactical concepts, that does not mean we should focus on these concepts entirely. Players are still developing technically at this age, especially as they go through growth spurts and awkward phases. It is quite common to look out at a U12 field and see players that are physically the size of young adults. Yet, other U12 players appear as if they could still be much younger. Children grow at different rates and coaches need to be sensitive to these changes and their social implications when coaching this age group. Some players may pick up skills quickly, while others may struggle. However, it may be the case that this is simply the result of differences in maturation. In a year, the slower developing player may surpass the player who developed earlier. For this reason we need to be patient and keep an open mind. Children are aware of their struggles more than anyone else, as peer evaluation is omnipresent at this age. When we see them struggling, it is important to help them keep the game fun.
Typical Characteristics of U12 Players
· Children are maturing at different rates
· Players need to warm-up and stretch---muscle pulls and other nagging injuries are common otherwise
· Players will typically understand elemental abstract concepts and hypothetical situations
· They like to solve problems
· Peer evaluation is a constant
· Egos are sensitive
· Coordination may depend on whether or not they are in a growth spurt
· Technique still needs to be reinforced constantly
· Playing too much can lead to injuries
· Playing too much and not feeling like they have a choice in the matter can lead to burnout and/or dropout
· This is the dawn of tactics!
· Keep asking the players to be creative and to take risks---we never want them to stop trying new ideas
· Ask for feedback from them---they will tell you how things are going.
· Try to hand over leadership and ownership of the team to the team.
· Keep it fun!!!
US YOUTH SOCCER GAME RECOMMENDATIONS
Every training session should end in a game to goal
Play 8 v 8 (including a goalkeeper)
Field Size: 75 to 80 yds long X 50 yds wide
