Has it ever occurred to you as to how many different kinds of benefits soccer practice games offer? Along with the benefit of getting in touch with the ball more often, it lets the players work out several other exercises.
The arrangement of a 4v4 small-sided game in soccer training is not very big but works best for both the players as well as the coach. The coach can observe each and every player since there are only 4 players a side. There is a lot of time available to the players for the purpose of playing with the game. At the same time, it’s possible for the players to practice the distribution process, collecting the ball, making fast and correct decision, and looking up.
It is the duty of the coach to be present on the field and encourage the kids to use this process. The kids may not get familiarized to it easily especially in the beginning. For example, they might try to apply the usual technique of kick and run. It’s absolutely ok. But you’ll have to teach them the variety of ways available to execute the process of distribution.
If required, make use of diagram to teach the process to the players to begin with. Then demonstrate it as well. Just persevere a little and it’ll pay off in the form of kids adopting it. Once the players start applying the process, they’ll attempt to utilize the space sensibly when having the ball.
This brings a sort of structure into the team’s play. This also causes the players to work on their skills as well as manipulate the speed of the game. You must bear in mind that the process of distribution is only for the players who are slightly advanced in their training.
The beginners should not undertake this in soccer practice games. Their soccer drills must still concentrate on playing freely without a lot of guidance and rules. Their only attention should be on playing and not working on the technique.
Along with teaching the players the process of distribution, you should also teach them the need to balance the ball. The player with the ball must keep the possession of the ball and also keep looking up to pass the ball correctly.
You must teach the players to create adequate space around the player with the ball so that there is sufficient room to pass the ball. A 4v4 game is ideal to teach such tactics.
Another job that a coach has is to teach the various positions such as forward, defender, right flank, left flank to the players. The kids should work on understanding these positions and the best method is that the coach calls these positions by name during practice.
You must exercise patience with the kids when they are learning these exercises. It may take them some time in absorbing these things.
So move on and make your kids learn these skills through soccer practice games. To know more about a 4v4 game, register for our youth soccer coaching community that has several similar resources.
Andre Botelho is the author of “The Expert Youth Soccer Coaching Guide” and he’s a recognized expert in the subject of youth soccer coaching. Learn how to explode your players’ skills and make coaching sessions fun in less than 29 days! Download your free pdf guide at: Soccer Training Tips.
Tags: soccer drills, soccer exercises, Soccer practice games, soccer training