In order to make practices run smoothly and be fun, it is important for coaches to have a basic understanding of the intellectual, emotional and physical developmental stage of the players we are coaching. Here are some typical characteristerics of the Under 6 player.
Focused on themselves – reality to them is based on what they see and feel
Unable to see the world from another’s perspective
Everything is in the here and now
Cooling systems are less efficient - need frequent water breaks
Enjoy playing, not watching. Every player should have a ball in practice
Limited attention span - keep directions concise and to the point
Effort is performance – if they try hard, they are doing well
Active imaginations – utilize their imaginations in activities, they will love practice!
Look for adult approval – be encouraging when they say “Coach, look what I can do!”
Unable to think abstractly – spatial relationships are a mystery
Typically have 2 speeds -- extremely fast and stopped
Usually unaware of game scores – keep it that way
Below are two full-season courses each with 10 Lesson Plans designed for the U5-U6 player. Simply click the link next to the soccer ball.
Weekly Lesson Plans developed by Massachusetts Youth Soccer
GRASS-ROOTS EDUCATION: PLAY-PRACTICE-PLAY
TRAINING VIDEOS
THE FOOTBALL SKILLS COACH Taught by Joe Flurry - UEFA qualified professional football coach. Step by step video tutorials for 1v1 Moves, Turns and Ball Mastery techniques taught by elite football clubs.
BALL MASTERY
How to do Toe Taps on Top of Ball - Football Soccer Quick Feet Tutorial.
US Youth Soccer - "The Novice Coach - U6 - U8" US Youth Soccer's Coaching Education staff shows you how to get started teaching soccer to young players.
