U9 Practice Session Plans
In order to make practices run smoothly and be fun, it is important for us to have a basic understanding of the intellectual, emotional and physical developmental stage of the players we are coaching. Here are some typical characteristics of the Under 8 player.
- Enjoy playing in pairs.
- Are now able to take another’s perspective.
- Are starting to think abstractly – be patient.
- Cooling system still less efficient than adults – still make sure to give frequent water breaks.
- Still prefer playing to watching – keep everyone active during practice.
- Limited attention span.
- Have an understanding of time and sequence – “if I do this, then that happens”.
- Some now have a third or fourth speed in addition to stopped and as fast as possible.
- Very aware of adult reactions – be very aware of your reactions.
- Seek out adult approval and need reassurance – be supportive.
- Begin to become aware of peer perception – a social order is beginning to develop.
- Wide range of abilities between children at this age.
- Beginning to develop motor memories.
- Some become more competitive.
- Less active imaginations than U7 players.
Below are two full-season courses and specific, targeted tactical training sessions designed for the U8-U10 player. Simply click on the soccer ball.
WEEKLY TRAINING SESSIONS:
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Week 2 |
Week 3 |
Week 4 |
Week 5 |
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Week 6 |
Week 7 |
Week 8 |
Week 9 |
Week 10 |
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TACTICAL TRAINING SESSIONS:
Weekly Lesson Plans Published 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.
US YOUTH SOCCER - "THE NOVICE COACH"
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.
