These are the transitional ages into the adult game. There is a greater focus on how ball skill and decisions influence success on the field. 

In these age groups ball skills, enjoyment and insight into the game are keys. Gradually introduce fitness, mental toughness, and results as well. Success in winning matches should begin to be the product of a consistent and systematic approach to the game that focuses more on player development than on team building.

Players at this age love to play and they can learn a great deal by engaging them in activities at this age that are match related. Teach the game of soccer in game situations where players must compete. Teach them when and how to get the ball out of pressure with the idea to get forward and score goals. Also teach them when and how to win the ball back as individuals and as a group.
 

• The idea here is to provide a fun, yet challenging atmosphere where players develop these techniques under pressure. They also need to be fun and exciting so they want to come back as soon as possible!

• Topics can vary between technical to tactical.

• The coach should focus on one topic per session with players and not try to combine sessions. Select and stick to one topic per week.

• Shooting and finishing, passing, and dribbling techniques should be worked on as a refresher, so players continue to develop their skills, instead of declining.

• Repetition is vital for these players and the more touches on the ball they have in training the better. Training should be game related and not just exercises.

• Engage them in sessions where they are passing, moving, shooting, defending, while still enjoying the game.

• At U14-U19, you should train/work on passing (technique and execution) and possession more than the players’ dribbling and moves.

• The first defender (Pressure), second defender (Cover), and third defender (Balance) should be taught to the players and understood by the players.

• Heading should also be worked on from time to time, but do not do an entire session on it!

• No lines, laps, or lectures! Don’t speak for longer than 60-90 seconds, and keep from using the “freeze” method unless it is an absolute must.

• COACH the SKILLS and TACTICS during the game. Do NOT be a cheerleader.

Points of Emphasis

Technique: Important to establish a good strong solid base. Develop individual skills under the pressure of time, space, and an opponent. Increase technical speed.

• Juggling: Alternating feet without a bounce. First 5 minutes of each training session.

• Dribbling: Encourage risk taking!!!

o Moves to beat an opponent;

o Keeping possession, shielding, spin turns;

o Change of speed, change of direction.

• Receiving:

o Toe Up, Heel Down

o Plant foot facing where the ball is coming from, along with your shoulders and hips.

o Keep the ball in front of you while receiving it.

o Ground and introduction of air balls. All surfaces, from a partner, on the move.

• Passing:

o Toe Up, Heel Down

o Plant foot point at your target along with your shoulders and hips facing your target.

o Passing using laces, inside, outside - Short and long.

o Crossing

• Shooting/Finishing:

o Ankle Locked

o Toes curled inside boot/shoe

o Using entire body to strike through the ball

o Striking with the laces

o Land on shooting foot.

• Heading: Self serve and partner serve - jumping to head, turning the ball.

• Tackling: Proper technique.

o Stepping into the ball

o Using entire body, not just a leg, to make a tackle.

Tactics: Increase Tactical Speed (Decision making)

• Individual (1v1)

o Attacking: Keep possession; Encourage risk by taking players on in the proper areas of the field.

o Defending: 1st defender (the “Pressure” defender) is a must at this time, working on pressure, delay, then tackle. Proper pressure (in front and behind); Channel player; immediate chase, angles of pressure.

• Small Group  (2v1, 2v2, 3v2, 3v3, 4v2, 4v4)

o Attacking

- Keep possession=> Support; Combination play=> wall pass, take-over, overlap, double pass.

- Width, depth, penetration; Crossing with proper runs in the box; Simple set plays.

o Defending

- The 2nd defender (the “Cover” defender) needs to be introduced and understood on how to cover the first defender.

- The 3rd defender (the “Balance” defender) needs to supply support to the defense. Take passing lanes away, awareness of the long pass/through pass.

• Tactics/positioning should be discussed and each player should have a basic understanding of each position in the 4-3-3. Use small group activities to teach tactics: 2v1, 2v2, 3v1, 3v2, 3v3, 4v2, etc.