- Panthers USA Guidebook for Developing U-6 and U-8 Players
- US Youth Soccer "Best Practices Introduction"
- Ball Control
- Coaching Technique
- FUNdamental Skills
- Dribbling Coaching Points
- Dribbling Lesson Plan
- Passing Coaching Points
- Receiving Coaching Points
- Throw-Ins
- Finishing
- Tackling
- US Youth Soccer "Skills School"
- 1v1 To Goal
- 2v2 To Goal
- 3v2 To Goal
- More on Basic Skills
Technique: dribbling; shooting
Psychology: sharing; fair play; parental involvement; “how to play”; emotional management
Fitness: balance; running; jumping; introduce the idea of how to warm-up; movement education
Tactics: where is the field; which goal to kick at
Best Qualities of a Coach for this Age Player: Patience, good humor, and a willingness to see the world through a child’s eyes. Also, the ability to speak their language and accept that the children’s play will not look at all like soccer.
Number of Matches per Year - 20 Practices: Children at these ages should not be playing any organized games. Playing with and against their teammates during practice times is sufficient and is to be encouraged.
Breaks from Organized/Mandatory Soccer: Children at this age should be able to play when they want to play, and walk away when they are through.
Travel: None
US Youth Soccer Recommends: The field is approximately 20 yards wide and 30 yards long. Play with a size 3 soccer ball. Each team should have 3 players on the field and no goalkeepers. Player smust play at least 50% of each game.
