Objective:

Organization

• Area 35 x 25 yards, with additional five-yard zones at each end.

• Normal 4 vs. 4 - but the only way to score is by "touch down" of ball with foot in end zone.

• If ball goes out of play over end zone line or at side of end zone, defending team re-starts game with "goal kick" or "dribble-in" from end line.

• If ball goes out over side line (not including end zone) play is re-started by "pass-in" (or throw-in if coach prefers).

• Condition game to disallow any slide tackling.

 

Teaching

• The only way to score is by dribbling or passing into end zone - both methods should be encouraged.

• Players attempting to score should screen ball from opponent as he or she "touches down" - to protect both ball and player.

• Attacking player “off-the-ball” should try to steal into an attacking space on the “blindside” of the defense.

• Defending team must work collectively to stop "dribbler," and at same time avoid being "blindsided" by pass.

• Encourage defenders to be come very aware of all attackers and their changing positions.

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Progressions

U9 Progressions

• Widen the field to allow players more room to get on “blindside” when attacking.

• Encourage the defending team to get organized -- one player goes to the ball, other two cover and so prevent the wide attackers getting in behind.

U10 Progressions

• If you are using these lesson plans for the first time refer to the earlier Lesson Plans for ideas on progressions.

• Progress from the U9 by not only adding a player, but by widening and lengthening the field to make the game more challenging.

U11/U12 Progressions

• If you are using these lesson plans for the first time refer to the earlier Lesson Plans for ideas on progressions.

• Keep working on the development of this practice, e.g., bigger areas and possibly larger numbers such as 5 vs. 5.