“A proper training set up is critical in order to have a meaningful practice. The more prepared you are, the better the practice will flow. This will enable the kids to have fun and fun is the biggest motivator in the sport. It is important that you prepare a session that has a topic that is age appropriate, builds upon topics already covered, and is part of the curriculum. 

The kids should always be moving and everything should be a game in which points can be scored, and ALWAYS end with a scrimmage. Finally, coach in the flow: Try not to stop practice unless you absolutely have to in order to make a point.”

There are a number of resources available for coaches that can assist. The following are some resources that can be found on-line, as downloads or subscriptions.

http://www.nscaa.com/education/library

http://www.fourfourtwo.com

http://thecoachingmanual.com

http://insidesoccer.com

http://www.osysa.com/coaching/coaching_articles/

http://www.top-soccer-drills.com

http://www.osysa.com/odp/odp_numbering_system__principles_of_play/

https://usys-assets.ae-admin.com/assets/956/15/Systems-Numbering-Positional%20Roles%20dc%2006.26.2015.pdf

http://www.ussoccer.com/coaching-education/resources/2015-player-development-initiatives