U4 is the introduction to soccer for most players. Practices/Training portion should be 30-45 minutes long followed by 15-20 mins of 3 v 3 games. Coaches should keep the ball play. When a ball goes out of bounds through another ball in. When the ball is dead this is a great opportunity to get the ball to the feet of more timid players so all will have an opportunity during the game.
The primary goal with this age group is continuing to make soccer a fun sport for the kids. The emphasis should continue to be on fun and not competition.
Three goals for the U5 season;
Three goals for the U6 season;
Adjust time for younger age groups; ie 30 seconds. Have players see how many the can get. Repeat and see if they can beat their score.
The primary goal with this age group is to begin developing skills, as a player, in ball handling, passing and shooting. While no positions are being played, you should begin emphasizing spacing on the field. If their teammate has the ball there is no reason to go to the ball, but rather they should find open space on the field. The emphasis should still be on having fun with the sport and not on competition.
Three "goals" for the season;
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Have fun and learn at the same time. This series gets kids working on the basic movements that will develop them athletically, while also adding competition and fun.
Improve multi-directional quickness with this simple, 4-cone drill. Emphasize the sprint out to imitate a game-time scenario.
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Soccer - How to Play the Game (The Official Playing and Coaching Manual of the United States Soccer Federation)
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Modern Youth Training - The Complete Guide to Soccer for Kids
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