We would like to show you the coaching concepts and, yes, some secrets behind our drills, using the MOTIVATIONAL DRILL of this practice plan as an example. We don't publish this in the book simply because the book would be too big. But rest assured, in obvious and subtle ways, this is the kind of effort that goes into each of our drills and it represents the benefits you get.

Skill Development

Kids with the ball will learn how to dribble. both in a 1v1 situation (when they meet a pirate) as well as in traffic. They will control the ball close to feet and make quick turns to avoid traffic. It is an excellent drill to encourage players dribbling to keep their heads up as much as possible so they can see obstacles and opportunities.

The pirates are the defenders and they will learn to take the ball away from players. At this age they are not likely going to slide tackle, but thy should learn to close in on an attacker and "steal" the ball.

The role reversal gives every player the opportunity to be an attacker and a defender.

Tactical Development

For attackers, the key tactical component is to recognize space and dribble to it to avoid getting caught. Also, trying different moves and ways to beat an opponent are encouraged.

Defenders have two tactical opportunities. First they need to choose a target, because players are coming at them from two directions. If the team is advanced or if there are some talented players, they may figure out that two defenders have a better chance of stealing a ball.

Mental & Social Development

This will be a good start to teach kids decision making in a fun game environment. Attackers need to decide where the openings are and which ones to exploit. Defenders need to be aware of traffic from two directions. There are more attackers than defenders, so defenders (pirates) need to decide which ball carrier offers the best opportunity for a "win".

Communication can be encouraged, certainly amongst the pirates.

Trying to get each attacker to count their successful river crossings provides a simple means of motivation and introducing the concept of competition.

From a social development perspective, kids are working together as teams and will get a glimpse of the benefits of group work. With attackers outnumbering defenders 2:1, the defenders are clearly the underdog and may develop even more unity, while the attackers pretty much work on their own. This is supported by the fact that each attacker has his/her own ball while the defenders have none.

The fun part comes from setting the popular scenario of defending a "territory" while others need to conquer it.

Co-ordination

Agility is developed in this drill. Attackers need to make quick directional adjustments to avoid traffic and defenders. Defenders need to pivot 180 degrees to be able to see attackers from both sides and chose a target.

Everyone should be moving at all times so that during the 10 minute drill there will be sufficient physical effort.

Game Application

The basic 1v1 dribbling element is fostered which is a key component of attacking soccer. Defenders will learn to defend while being outnumbered and may begin to see the benefit of the "challenge & cover" concept.

Coaching Tips

Set the drill up as a fun game of "good guys" vs "bad guys". Let the kids learn and discover on their own, let them have fun. There should be lots of vocal interaction and laughter. Don't worry too much if the skills are being messed up.

Only intervene if the kids don't get the basic idea of direction (attackers) or ball winning (defenders).