by Andre Botelho

Created on: January 06, 2010   Last Updated: January 07, 2010

I wonder what is it about soccer coaching drills that makes kids so keen on it. This is not considered as only a game by them rather a fun activity to channelize their energy. Youth soccer drills therefore test the talent of the coach when they require kids to keenly look forward to their next session.

You could do it in many ways. Initiate a variety of games, entertaining drills, and fun activities that will encourage them to compete with each other. You should know that it’s a team game. Consequently, add playoffs that cheer the players to keep the team spirit alive.

The best soccer coaching strategies will guide you to begin with fun soccer trainings with kids. This not only guides players to remain focused on the game but also utilize their energy positively.

Guide the kids to first warm up their bodies by going for a small round of jogging or running. But make sure they don’t overexert themselves. It is easy for them to go overboard since they are full of energy and would not know when to stop. Ensure a few breaks between them. It will help them to revitalize and pep up themselves. You can also use this time to talk to them about the next set of exercises.

Subsequently, engage them in group or individual activities. Take an example, the player who arrives first starts juggling the ball. He is then joined by players who keep coming in. In this way the whole group is involved in the activity. If the number of players increases in a group, it is best to make subgroups for the soccer coaching drills.

There are other productive and interesting activities such as soccer golf where the players can aim to hit a distant object. Another interesting game is soccer volleyball in which the players throw the ball at each other without letting it touch the ground. These soccer coaching exercises are a great way to introduce a range of activities in a session.

In addition, teach the players to dribble with the ball as also use different body parts except hands. Do not be too pushy. Bear in mind that the players are young and need time to grasp the concepts. As the ball approaches the player, shout the name of the body part that you want the player to use in trapping it. Then the player needs to bring into play only that body part. This helps them pay attention to it.

Another characteristic of fascinating drills is circuit training. It pays a lot with large number of players. Divide the players into small groups and give them several tasks. It is important to carry out these activities frequently with only small breaks in the middle.

Test these instantly. If you are creative, you can make up new and interesting activities every day.

Now it is up to you to pass these soccer coaching drills to the kids so that they can use them on the field in their sessions. You can use the tons of resources available on our youth soccer coaching community forums by subscribing to it.

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