Win the Ball Back #2 - U8
Win the Ball Back #2 - U8
Cats and Dogs

Organization:
Area: 15y x 15y
Two players stand across from each other in the center of the grid. One is the cat, the other is the dog. When the coach yells out CAT, that player tries to tag the dog before the dog can run to the end line. When the coach yells out DOG, that player tries to tag the cat before the cat reaches the endline. Switch partners after several turns.
Variation: Make the grid longer.
Focus Points:
- Reaction.
- Enthusiasm.
- Fitness - Reaction and sprint capacity.
1v1, Defending From An Angle

Organization:
Area: 16y x 12y
Create two small fields of 8y x 12y. Players score in the small goals in the corners of the field. Play always starts in the opposite corner from the goals. Begin the 1v1 with a pass across from the defender. Switch roles after the turn is over. Players switch fields every eight minutes.
Game: Keep track of goals scored.
Focus Points:
Protect your own goal first, followed by pressuring the ball.
Force the attacker away from the goal.
Win the ball back at the right moment.
2v2, Defending From An Angle

Organization:
Area: 12y x 12y
Place small goals in all four corners. The attackers start in the corners, the defenders start in the center and on the end line. The 2v2 starts with a pass from a defender to one of the two attackers. Switch roles after the turn is over. Players switch fields every eight minutes.
Game: Keep track of goals scored.
Focus Points:
- Block shots
3v3, Small Goals

Organization:
Area: 20y x 15y.
The two teams try to score on the small goals in the corners. When the ball is out of bounds, players dribble or pass the ball back in.
Game: Keep track of the score.
Focus Points:
Passing forward.
Receiving forward.
Make the field big when your team has the ball.
Make the field small when the opponent has the ball.
5v5 Game

Organization:
Area: 40y x 25y
Two teams play 5v5 (4+GK), starting in 2-1-1 formation. When the ball goes out of bounds, restart with dribble or pass.
When working with multiple teams, rotate teams in and out when a goal is scored (winner stays on) or every couple of minutes.
Place the resting team on both sidelines with soccer balls, so they can bring in a ball quickly when they go out of bounds. This will keep the game tempo high.
Game: Keep track of the score.
Coaching Points:
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When the opponent is in possession, make the field small.
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When your own team is in possession, make the field large.
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After losing the ball, try to win it back as quickly as possible.
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After winning the ball try to go forward as quickly as possible to create a scoring chance. Ten Second Rule.