Drills for soccer can be successfully carried out only when the fun part tops the priority list and it’s really surprising how convenient it is for coaches to overlook it. When fun is lacking, kids will have no motivation to play the game. Even then, coaches consider conducting these drills similar to delivering classroom lectures.
There is no innovation, creativity, or even a personal touch to the soccer drills. This has the effect of de-motivating the players to an extent that they make up their minds to leave the game or remain average players. In contrast, the kids will be ready to perform even the difficult drills if they have an element of fun attached to them.
In addition to drills, also include a lot of games and other outdoor activities. It has a dual benefit of making the regimen more exciting as well as bringing much variety to it. The important thing to note is that the games should be ones that inculcate quick thinking, build strength, and endurance.
I’m sure you must’ve already sorted out the basic equipment required to perform some particular exercises. Ideally, this should be done even though it involves a lot of time initially in organizing and then setting it up. Thus avoid it except when you intend to teach kids something in detail.
While carrying out the drills, see to it that they’ve got a ball all the time. Almost all the soccer exercises are to be performed with a ball. This is when they’ll get their only opportunity to perk up their passing, dribbling, and various other skills.
Continue to study the mode that the kids are using. It is crucial to rectify their mistake when they make one. Or, it will lead to them learning incorrect techniques.
Another trend that puts off the kids of drills for soccer is making long speeches in briefings. This is totally unacceptable. Their only focus should be on playing soccer.
You can quickly jot down the important points that need discussion and take about 5 to 10 minutes to brief them to the kids.
A great trick that works very well with kids is dividing them in groups or teams and then making them compete with each other in soccer practice. The only downside to it is that it must be seen that kids do not get jealous with each other or develop enmity. This is where your coaching abilities are challenged.
Also, do not follow the system of reward or punishment. That is not called for. The idea is to make them competitive.
Last but not the least; ensure that every player has a ball to play. This is extremely important since we are talking about kids learning about and enjoying soccer. Keep these points in mind and you will be hailed as a happy coach.
What’s stopping you now? Get out there and have fun with these drills for soccer. You can get a lot of useful information in the form of articles, newsletters, and videos at out youth soccer coaching community by joining today.
Andre Botelho is a recognized authority in youth soccer coaching and has already helped thousands of youth coaches to dramatically improve their coaching skills. Learn how to explode your players’ skills and make training fun by downloading your free ebook at: Fun Soccer Drills.