“Open space- the final frontier”

The coaching strategy:   The key developmental stage here is players beginning to understand the need to fill open space on offense and close open space on defense.  Players have to move quickly into an open area before somebody can successfully pass to them.  The players next to this player need to have anticipated that pass so they are already moving into the next passing position.  Thus recognition, anticipation, and movements without the ball are as important as movements with the ball.  This takes discipline and focus which are developmental skills that 10 and 11 year olds do possess.  Take notes during games and address these during practices through the use of drills that mimic the real game.  Emphasize the teaching points.

 Technical stuff:  Accelerated growth in this age group may cause a noticeable decline in coordination and technical skills so a small percentage of each practice should be devoted to maintaining multidirectional ball control, trapping, and first touch skills.  Chipping skills can be practiced.  Crossing into the center from the wing position can be accomplished by your strongest players.  Fakes are to be encouraged because they really work when done well.  Goalkeeping should be optional unless no one volunteers.  No player should play more than ½ the game at goalkeeper.  Even goal keepers need good foot skills.  Fitness can be emphasized so select drills that require speed and endurance.  The wall pass is so simple to run and so difficult to defend that it will work almost every time.  Teach it.  Teach it a lot!

Players now will begin to see the similarities and differences in responsibilities at each position.  Discuss these openly and regularly.  Still rotate all players to all positions.  Do not let them begin to specialize in positional skills as this will interfere with their ability to blossom into well rounded, creative, and technically skilled soccer players.

The Boss:  You now have to find a comfortable style that allows you to stay in control of practices.  The best strategy is to be organized and have practices well planned out.  This will minimize opportunities for them to talk about the latest video games and a wide assortment of fascinating non soccer topics.  Discipline is needed at times so make your rules and punishments known ahead of time and administer them fairly, consistently, and in a matter of fact manner, without too much drama.  If behavior problems persist and are disruptive please call the parents and come up with a behavior modifying approach that fits with home structure and family beliefs.

 Referees:  By definition they are always right, even when they may in fact be wrong.  Our club rule is simple-no arguing.  Stays focused on coaching and leave the rules up to the ref.  Remember emotional management and self control are developmental skills you are trying to teach, so be a good role model. 

Parents:  Do not allow them to yell instructions to the players.  All good plays in soccer are rewarded with applause and support, regardless of the team.  Imagine how you would feel if the opposing team’s parents applauded your child’s achievement.  Its great sportsmanship and a wonderful positive role model for impressionable kids.