Guidebook

Junior Programs
Guidebook
Complete details on the FC Carolina Alliance Munchkin &
Pre Academy programs for children aged 4 – 8
Second Edition: August 2013

Junior Programs Guidebook
Contents
What are we doing?
Introduction
Technical and Tactical Overview
Curriculum Overview
Structural Shape Development
p.2
p.3
p.4
p.5
Why are we doing it?
Philosophy p.6
How are we doing it?
Methods
Coaches Introduction
Coaches Session Guide
Parent Education
p.7 – p.8
p.9
p.10
p.11 – p.12
What are the results?
Age Level Expectations p.13
What are the Specifics?
Munchkin: 4 Year Olds, Introduction and Curriculum
Munchkin: 4 Year Olds, Session Plans
p.14
p.15 – p.22
p.23
p.24 – p.31
p.32
p.33 – p.40
Pre Academy: Introduction and Curriculum
Pre Academy: Session Plans
Pre Academy: Game Progressions
Pre Academy: Terms
p.41
p.42 – p.57
p.58
p.59

2
Programs
FCCA has two “junior programs;” Munchkin (4 – 6 year olds), and Pre Academy (7 – 8 year olds). These
programs are a specifically designed progressive structure of soccer training intended to develop a child’s
love for the game and provide the child with every possible foundational tool needed to succeed at soccer
for the rest of their life.
The aims are simple; the goal of the Munchkin program is to develop players who are technically and
tactically able to progress to the Pre Academy level. The goal of the Pre Academy program is to develop
players who are who are technically and tactically able to progress to the FCCA’s Academy program
and succeed in that environment.
The Munchkin program progresses year to year. The 6-year old practices build on the 5-year old
practices, and the 5-year old practices build on the 4-year old practices. All focus is on the basic technical
development in passing, shooting, and dribbling, however; the 6-year old age group are subconsciously
introduced to the most basic tactical elements.
The Pre Academy program progresses from season to season. The fall is considered the start of the
program and therefore the spring season builds upon the fall season. The Pre Academy program focuses
on further technical development, however; the group is also introduced to greater tactical awareness.
Players who progress through the Munchkin and Pre Academy programs will enjoy soccer because they
will have had fun practices and they will appreciate that the greatest pleasure comes from being able to
take pride in their own and their team’s effort and development. By the time a player has moved through
the entire Munchkin and Pre Academy programs he or she will also have all the fundamentals necessary
to develop into a complete soccer player.
“Recreation” vs. “Competitive” Soccer
Unless your child is being paid to play soccer, they are playing for recreation. When two teams play one
another and both teams are trying to score on the other team’s goal they are playing competitively. All
youth soccer is therefore both recreational and competitive.
If “recreation” and “competitive” are therefore one in the same, the only thing that matters is your child
being coached correctly, by a qualified, experienced individual. Children can play soccer in a variety of
places – or at least kick a ball and call it soccer. If children want to learn soccer, however, this is the
place.
Junior Programs
Introduction

3
Junior Programs
Technical & Tactical Overview
Outside of physical and psychological aspects soccer involves two key training concepts: technical and
tactical training. The Munchkins and Pre Academy program focus heavily on technical training. The 6
year old Munchkin group is also subtly introduced to minor tactical elements, and the Pre Academy
group is introduced to more advanced tactical elements.
Technical training is about how to do something: passing, dribbling, shooting, heading, or tackling.
These are specific elements that involve an individual and how he or she interacts directly with the ball.
Technical training is extremely important, especially at a young age. Young players, especially
beginners, need correct technical training. After being taught correct techniques and after frequent
repetitions, however, a player’s natural technique will develop into muscle memory. Having a good
coach to teach correct technical skills is therefore important, and will always be important, however;
after a certain amount of time the player can further develop and enhance these skills, to a large extent,
by him or herself.
When two teams play one another every player will be involved in a 1v1 battle. The winner of the 1v1
battle should be determined by which player has the greater skill, which means the greater technique.
Tactical training is about why you would do something: when to pressure, when to drop (cover), where
an opponent should be guided, what particular pass or run should be made, where players should be
positioning themselves, when a player should shoot, when a player should dribble, what particular shape
a team should take when attacking, when defending, and when in transition between both situations.
These elements involve how an individual thinks, adapts, and decides on what to do by knowing what
choices should be made in any given situation.
When two teams play one another the more talented team should always win, unless the weaker team is
able to adjust their tactics. In order to adjust tactics though, the coach needs to be very tactically gifted,
and he or she must have been able to train his or her players to be tactically gifted. Having a good coach
to teach correct individual and team tactics is therefore indispensable, and will always be needed to guide
any team.
Having great tactical ability means being able to defeat an opponent who is otherwise your superior.
We teach technical and tactical skills. We want to develop players who are skillful but who can also
think for themselves.

4
Junior Programs
Curriculum Overview
If a child were to progress though the entire Munchkins and Pre Academy system – U4, U5, U6, U7 –
at the conclusion he or she will have spent their time in the following way:
 44% Dribbling/Ball Control
 25% Passing & Receiving
 25% Shooting
 3% Goal Keeping
 1.5% Heading, 1.5% 1v1 Defending (for exposure to the concepts rather than for development)
Munchkins: 4 Year Olds
Session 1 Session 2 Session 3 Session 4 Session 5 Session 6 Session 7 Session 8
Fall Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling
Spring Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling
Fall Dribbling Shooting Passing Dribbling Shooting Passing Dribbling Shooting
Spring Dribbling Shooting Passing Dribbling Shooting Passing Dribbling Shooting
Fall Passing Shooting Dribbling Passing Shooting Dribbling Passing Shooting
Spring Passing Shooting Dribbling Passing Shooting Dribbling Passing Shooting
Pre Academy: 7 – 9 Year Olds
Fall Passing &
Receiving
Shooting Dribbling Passing &
Receiving
Heading &
Throw Ins
Goal
Keeping
Shooting Passing &
Receiving
Spring Passing &
Receiving
Shooting Goal
Keeping
Passing &
Receiving
Dribbling 1v1s Shooting Passing &
Receiving

5
Junior Programs
Structural Shape Development
What are we working towards?
#1 #2
#3 #4
Spain Defending http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SfJafYHDBZQ
Spain Goal http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLAdTC7vyIg
Barcelona Youth Team Goals http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYZmabgUXtY
Barcelona 42-Passes Goal http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zmo9FchKvrE
Brazil 1982 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxAFZtIi87w

6
Junior Programs
Philosophy
Soccer is an adult’s game designed for adults. Soccer therefore has to be adapted for children, and
adapted for children to learn. This is entirely possible, however, so long as the following is considered:
A focus on success is a focus on the short term. A focus on excellence is a focus on the long term. By
definition this makes excellence harder to understand than success. In the end, however, excellence leads
to success. This is why the Munchkin and Pre Academy programs are soccer schools, designed to teach.
Soccer is also a long-term developmental sport. The “peak” age for a soccer player is around 25, which
is why such a heavy emphasis is placed on parents to be patient and not be concerned with how many
goals their child scores at U8, how many games their child’s team wins at U10, and what team their child
is placed on at U14. Everything in the Munchkin and Pre Academy programs, and FCCA in general, is
designed to do what is best for the child’s long term development.
It is vital that players, children, are seen as a long-term investment, not a short term asset, and that it is
understood that advocating development over winning leads to development AND winning.

7
Junior Programs
Methods
Coaching Method Principals
1. Developmentally Appropriate
2. Clear, Concise and Correct Information
3. Simple to Complex Sessions
4. Safe and Appropriate Training Area
5. Decision Making for Players
6. Implications for the Game
MUNCHKIN’S
Practices
According to the US Soccer Curriculum developed by U.S. Soccer Youth Technical Director Claudio
Reyna and Dr. Javier Perez: “Very young players…love to play. Therefore, all practices should be based
on fun games.” (US Soccer Curriculum, p.39). Munchkin soccer is therefore designed to be both
educational and fun.
Practices are divided into 3 parts: a warm up, main activity, and then progression, with all parts
conforming to the same goal. A 3v3 game is always the final progression.
The 4 year old Munchkin practices are always based on dribbling, as this is the only skill that can be
fully mastered at this young age.
The 5 year old Munchkin practices introduce shooting and passing in addition to continuing dribbling
skills. Dribbling and shooting are the main focus.
The 6 year old Munchkin practices also focus on shooting, passing, and dribbling, but with emphasis
turning towards passing more than dribbling. The 6 year old passing practices will always involve the
“triangle” shape that should be evident throughout soccer, from this age through to the professional
game.
Game Structure
3v3 games, 20x30 fields, pug goals, no goal keepers, constant play, no score keeping, no referees, games
approximately 12 minutes long (with no break).
Parents with children of this age often have things come up at the last minute, and therefore are not
always able to make every game or practice. Because of this, and because Munchkins only play 3v3
soccer, we have discovered it is impractical to form actual teams. Instead, players are organized into
equal age-relevant groups each practice and game day

8
Junior Programs
Methods
PRE ACADEMY
Practices
Practices are divided into 3 parts: a warm up, main activity, and then progression, with all parts
conforming to the same goal.
Practices reflect the goal of the program with sessions on passing and receiving, dribbling, shooting,
heading, goalkeeping and 1v1 defending.
As “teams” play 6v6 (1 goal keeper and 5 outfield players) wherever possible practice sessions will
always involve players holding the team shape of 2-1-2 (four triangles joined together, or an inverted
diamond).
Game Structure
6v6 games, 30x50 – 40x60 fields, goal keepers, constant play, no score keeping, no referees, games
approximately 20 minutes. No specific “teams.”
The Pre Academy program has conditioned intra-program games for the first 4 – 5 weeks of the season
in order to not overwhelm players. In either the 5th
or 6th
week of each season the program hosts a mini
tournament with unrestricted play and outside organizations taking part, in order to expose the Pre
Academy players to more competitive soccer.
The Pre Academy program is a training program that readies players to move on to the Academy where
then they will be placed on specific teams.
Evaluations
Pre Academy players write their own end-of-season evaluation with the purpose being that emphasis is
placed on players thinking about soccer and their own development.

9
Junior Programs
Coaches Introduction
Over the time the Munchkin and Pre Academy programs have fundamentally adapted to become
deliberately more inclusive.
We love parents! And as a club we want parents to be directly involved with their child’s soccer
development.
Both the Munchkin and Pre Academy programs encourage parents to assist in coaching their children,
under the guidance of the program director.1
Both programs encourage parents to attend practices and games at sit close to the action.
Both programs encourage parents to ask questions to the program director about curriculum and
instruction.
The Munchkin’s program also offers the Munchkin Mentors Initiative; whereby FCCA players on
older teams volunteer to assist in coaching Munchkins on Saturday mornings.
Coaches receive a copy of all session plans prior to the season.
All coaches must complete the Youth I, Youth II, or National Youth License.
1
All parents work exclusively off the session plans that are given to them at the beginning of the season,
which alleviates any concern about what practices will be run or how professional the session will be.
In the Rowan County program volunteers are accompanied by Catawba College soccer players as
assistants.
The site director or program director is also present at all practices and games.

10
Junior Programs
Coaches Session Guide
Session Content
1. The session should be written down
2. There should be a specific purpose to the session
3. The purpose should be suitable for the age group and ability level (Challenging but
manageable, in line with the curriculum)
4. The correct spacing for the session should be used (not too big, not too small)
5. The session should be divided into a beginning, middle and end, progressing in difficulty
6. The time should be kept correctly, allowing for maximum effectiveness of each stage of the
session
7. Every part of the session should be working towards the purpose
8. The coaching points should be aligned with the purpose
9. The coaching points should be consistent throughout stages of the session
10. The session should be enjoyable for the players
Player Interaction
11. Coach should be on time, appropriately dressed (including a watch), prepared, and not eating or
drinking anything
12. Clear demonstrations should be given
13. The coaching points should be interjected in the session at the right times (Frequently, but not
so much it disrupts the session)
14. The coaching points should be interjected correctly (Fast and clear)
15. If the session is stopped, it should be restarted in the correct way
16. The interaction with the players should be appropriate (Friendly, but not their friend; correct
language for age group; disciplined, but not harsh)
17. The coach’s positioning relative to the players should be correct (Correct eye level, sunglasses
and/or hat off if addressing an individual; players facing away from sun and/or distractions)
18. The coach should know all the player’s names
19. The coach should be confident and knowledgeable
20. The coach should be happy, enthusiastic, positive, and encouraging
NO LINES, LECTURES, or LAPS!

11
Junior Programs
Parent Education
The first thing to remember is that the parent has the most important role in a child’s soccer development
Pressure (Canada PSA (Grocery Store) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZM4RO1ty3E)
Kids like grandparents watching them the best. This is because, in general, grandparents do not shout at
them while the game is being played, and then after game tell them how great they played and buy them
a treat.
Fun (Canada PSA (Hide n’ Seek) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xu9LIPPIEzI)
The soccer field is a child’s playground, and therefore a child wants to be left alone to have fun.
Concentration (Canada PSA (Golf) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ReKw6J5tK2c)
When playing soccer a child is concentrating, especially at the younger ages. Think about what you, as
an adult do, when you are trying to concentrate. The best example is when you are backing the car out
of the driveway: you turn the radio off. You need quiet.
Soccer is a sport and vocal support and encouragement can be given; but children’s soccer needs to be
looked at the same way from a spectator’s point of view as golf or tennis. No one yells in Tiger Woods’
backswing, and no one shouts during a Serena Williams serve or even rally. Polite applause after the
action is always appreciated though.
Also; think how a school teacher would react if a parent was cheering during class, or a piano teacher if
a parent was yelling during a lesson?
Parent interaction is also discouraged during practices and games for several additional reasons.
1. Hearing more than one voice giving instruction, even if the information is correct, is too much
for a player to take on board
2. If the information is being transmitted is exactly the same as that coming from the coach, the
information is unnecessary
3. The information being transmitted could be factually incorrect.
4. If the child does not successfully complete the action a parent is calling for, e.g. “go, go, go,” or
“win the ball,” or “shoot,” or “run” (even if those actions are incorrect), the child begins to feel
like he or she is letting their parent/s down. This can be exacerbated by parent’s reactions when
their child does not do what they believe they should, e.g. throwing arms in the air, sounds of
frustration, or shouts of disapproval.
5. Finally, children then begin to play for parent’s approval instead of the love of the game.
The dangers of incorrect interaction can be summarized in one word: pressure. And pressure from parents
is the primary reason children quit playing sports.

12
Junior Programs
Parent Education
What is the Role of the Parent?
The parent of a young soccer player is by far the most important and influential person in that player’s
life. A coach will see your child for an average of 2-4 hours a week. A parent will see them for anywhere
up to 168.
The parent has a massive role in the soccer development of a child. Here is how a parent best can help
their child:
Communication before the Game or Practice
“Do your best.” (Not “Be the best”.)
“Have Fun.”
At the Game or Practice
Watch! (Try to avoid reading or texting)
“Officially” assist in coaching
Communication after the Game or Practice
“I love watching you play.”
“I am proud of you.”
Engage in discussion if the child initiates it
At Home
Watch soccer with your child
Pick a specific professional team to support and follow them
Play soccer with your child
Obtain a coaching license (USSF National Youth)

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Junior Programs
Age Level Expectations
Age Group Expectation Coaching Point Areas of Concentration
4 – 6 Do not use toe to kick
ball
Use the inside of foot to
kick ball
54% Dribbling
25% Shooting
21% PassingUse both feet to pass ball Use both feet to pass ball
Do not run into other
players
Look up
7 – 9
As above, plus:
Pass ball correctly Use correct weight of
pass
38% Passing & receiving
25% Shooting
13% Dribbling
13% Goalkeeping
Use correct surface of
foot to strike ball with
Receive ball correctly Stay on toes ready to
receive pass
Awareness of
surroundings
Look up
Dribble when appropriate Observe when one has
space in front
Shoot when appropriate Observe when one is in
position to shoot
10 – 11
As above, plus:
Create passing angles Be sure one is in a
position to receive a pass
50% Passing & receiving
15% Dribbling
15% Shooting
5% Heading
5% Tackling
10% Basic Tactics
Chose correct pass to
make
Be aware of team mates
positioning
To beat opponents when
dribbling
Judge opponents
strengths & weaknesses
To hit the target when
shooting
Relax in front of goal
Head the ball correctly Keep eyes open, use
forehead
Tackle correctly Use inside of foot, follow
through, be patient, stay
side-on and on toes
Communicate with team
mates
Be aware of
surroundings and call
“man on” or “time”

14
Munchkin: 4 Year Olds
Introduction & Curriculum
The FCCA Munchkin program is the foundation of the club and the introduction for players aged 4-6
into club soccer.
The Munchkin’s program operates on a season-to-season, 8 week long curriculum. The structure is one
weekday evening practice and one Saturday morning “game” session.
Parents are utilized as volunteer coaches and provided with a pre-season briefing and detailed session
plans for each practice.
Munchkin soccer focuses on developing individual skill in a fun, positive, and creative learning
environment. The main goals of the program are the pure enjoyment of soccer and the development of
positive habits, both of which provide the foundation for players to excel.
Fall and Spring Curriculum
Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling Dribbling
Walking the
Dog
“I can do this,
can you?”
Soccer –
Socks
Over, Under,
In-between
Foxes and
Framers
Magnets Everybody’s
It
Gates
Bull Dog Clean the
Yard
Body Part
Dribble
Paint the
Field
Find a Home Soda
Fountain
Math
Dribbling
Ball Tag
3v3 3v3 3v3 3v3 3v3 3v3 3v3 3v3

15
Group Munchkin Age Group 4 Year Olds
Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up Walking the Dog 20 mins
Session 1/8 2. Main Activity Bull Dog 20 mins
Time 60 mins 3. Progression 3v3 Game 20 mins
(Written) Description (Visual) Organization Coaching Points
 Each player has a ball
 Players pretend their ball is a dog
 Players give the “dog” a name
 Players take the “dog” on a walk by
following the coach around the perimeter
of the designated area
1. “Good Dog” = pet ball with foot and tell
the “dog” it is “good”
2. “Wag the Tail” = box ball between feet
3. “Cat” = run with the ball
4. “Dog Park” = everyone run to middle of
the area with ball and bark
 Stay inside the area
 Keep the “dog” on a short leash (close!)
 Do not run into anyone else
 Split players into 2 equal groups: one
group at one end of the field, and the
other group at the opposite end
 Coach says “go” and both groups try to
dribble to opposite end of the field
without running into anyone else
 Players pretend that everyone in the
opposite group is a big bulldog, that they
want to stay away from
 Look up so you do not run into anyone
else
 Organize players into 2 equal teams
 Play 3v3 game
 Use either Pugg goals, or 2 cones on the
ground as goals
 Look up so you do not run into anyone
else

16
Group Munchkin Age Group 4 Year Olds
Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up “I can do this, can you?” 20 mins
Session 2/8 2. Main Activity Clean the Yard 20 mins
 Coach challenges players to repeat
exercises he or she is performing, both
with and without the ball.
 Players are then tasked with coming up
with their own suggestions to copy
 Encourages: body awareness, flexibility,
coordination, competition, listening
skills, and players contributing with
creative suggestions
 1 ball per player
 Coach spreads balls out across the field
(“yard”)
 Coach says “go” and players run to get a
ball and clean the yard
 First one to win ball back to coach wins
 Develop to players using drag-back
turns when retrieving ball
 Keep the ball close
 Put foot on top off ball and pull
back behind
 Play 3v3 game
ground as goals
 Change directions quickly

17
Group Munchkins Age Group 4 Year Olds
Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up Soccer Socks 20 mins
Session 3/8 2. Main Activity Body Part Dribble 20 mins
 Players line up in two teams on opposite
sides of the center line of cones
 Coach calls out either “soccer” or
“socks” and players run to the respective
side.
 Players who are closest to the side called
try to get to that side before the person
opposite them tags them
 Stay on your toes ready to move quickly
 Concentrate
 Players dribble soccer ball around the
designated area
 Coach calls out various body parts and
the player has to stop the ball and place
the body part called on the ball
 Listen to instruction
 Play 3v3 game
ground as goals

18
Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up Over, Under, In-
between
20 mins
Session 4/8 2. Main Activity Paint the Field 20 mins
 Players line up in two teams
 Players pass the ball backwards
o Over-head
o Through their legs
o Side to side
 After each go when the ball gets to the
last player, he or she runs to the front of
the line.
 The team finishes when the first player
gets back to the front
 Winning team is the team who completes
all three rotations first
 Work as a team
Encourages: body awareness, flexibility,
coordination, competition
 The ball is the player’s “paint brush”
 All players dribble around area
“painting” shapes with their ball
 Give players shapes to draw
 Use inside and outside of both feet to
“paint” properly
 Play 3v3 game
ground as goals

19
Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up Foxes and Farmers 20 mins
Session 5/8 2. Main Activity Find a Home 20 mins
 Players become foxes by tucking a
pinnie into the back of their shorts to
make a “tail”
 Coach is the “farmer” who tries to catch
the foxes by pulling out their tails
 Winner is the last fox left with a tail
 Develop to players using a ball instead
of a pinnie, and trying to keep the ball
from the coach
 Keep “tail” away from coach by turning
 Keep the ball close and under
control
 Keep ball away from coach by
turning and shielding
 Coach lays down multiple cones in the
designated playing area
 The cones represent “homes”
 When coach calls “go” players must run
with their ball to a home
 Coach calls “go” again, players must
run to a different home
 Develop to players having to place the
ball on top of the cone with their feet
 Develop to a time limit and challenging
players to see how many homes they
can visit
 Keep ball close
 Use both feet
 Play 3v3 game
ground as goals

20
Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up Magnets 20 mins
Session 6/8 2. Main Activity Soda Fountain 20 mins
 Players each have a ball
 Players pretend that their balls
are magnets that are initially
attracted to one another, but
when they get too close, they
repel
 Try “drag-back” turns
 When meeting another magnet
try and turn away quickly
 When using drag backs put foot
on top of the ball and pull it
backwards
 The coach names each side of the
field after a soda (E.g., Coke,
Sprite, Pepsi, Fanta)
 The coach calls out a soda name
and all players run with ball to
that side of the field
 Players try to stop ball exactly on
the line, without going out of
bounds
 Make it a race!
 Keep the ball close and under
control
 Change direction quickly
 When using drag backs put foot
on top of the ball and pull it
backwards
 Organize players into 2 equal
teams
 Play 3v3 game
 Use either Pugg goals, or 2 cones
on the ground as goals
 Try drag back turns

21
Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up Everybody’s It 20 mins
Session 7/8 2. Main Activity Math Dribbling 20 mins
 Object of the game is to tag other
players while not getting tagged
yourself
 When tagged players must put one arm
behind their backs
 When tagged for a second time players
must put both hands behind their back,
and run to coach to get “freed” to start
over
 Change direction quickly
 Players each have a ball
 Coach calls out certain math
equations:
o 2+1
o 3-1
o 2+2, ect
 Players must form groups based on the
correct answer to the question
 Concentrate
 Use both feet to dribble
 Play 3v3 game
 Use either Pugg goals, or 2 cones on
the ground as goals
 Change directions quick

22
Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up Gates 20 mins
Session 8/8 2. Main Activity Ball Tag 20 mins
 Players try to dribble through as many
gates as possible in a designated time
 Develop to coach standing in-between
gates (no more than 5 seconds per gate)
o When this happens players must
turn around and find another gate
to go through that coach is not in
 Concentrate
 All players dribble around area
 Designated 1 player as “It”
 “It” player must pass ball to hit another
player’s ball to make that player “It”
 Use both feet
 “It” player get close to another player
before trying to tag their ball
 Pass ball with side of foot
 Keep pass on ground
 Play 3v3 game
ground as goals
Specific Game Purposes (Outside Coaching Points): Ball tag is the last session of the season as it introduces children to the idea of
passing, which they will be further exposed to in the 5 year old group.

23
into club soccer.
Fall and Spring Curriculums
Dribbling Shooting Passing Dribbling Shooting Passing Dribbling Shooting
Gate Keepers Shooting
Relay
Topple the
Coconut
Red Light,
Green Light
Shoot in 2’s Clean the
Yard (in
pairs)
Swimming in
the Ocean
Shoot & Save
Dog Catcher Shooting
Race
Cross Over Police! Shoot in 3’s Temple of
Doom
Sharks and
Minnows
Twist &
Shoot
3v3 3v3 3v3 3v3 3v3 3v3 3v3 3v3

24
Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up Gate Keepers 20 mins
Session 1/8 2. Main Activity Dog Catcher 20 mins
 Half of the players have a ball, the
other half are “gate keepers”
 Players try to dribble through as
many gates as possible in a
designated time
 Gate keepers move between different
gates every 5-8 seconds
 When players come across a gate
keeper he or she must turn around
and find another gate to go through
(Look up!)
 Coach is the “Dog Catcher”
 Coach chases players and tries
to kick ball away from them
 When ball is kicked away,
players are “out” and must go
outside the area and try to
juggle to the ball for 30 seconds
before coming back in
(Look up!)
 Shield the ball (get body
between the ball and the coach)
when necessary
 Play 3v3 game
the ground as goals
 Use both feet
 Shield the ball when necessary

25
Theme Shooting 1. Warm Up Shooting Relay 20 mins
Session 2/8 2. Main Activity Shooting Race 20 mins
 Split players into 2 groups; one at
either end of the field
 Line of cones in middle separates the
field
 Line of cones 3 yards in front of each
goal
 Put players in lines
 First player from each line runs to
opposite end and shoots on goal
 When player crosses center line, the
next player in line goes
 Players join back of opposite line when
finished shooting
 Players have to shoot outside of “no-
go” zone (cannot dribble into goal)
 Keep the ball close when running
 Use side of foot to pass into goal
 Hit the target
 Use both feet when dribbling and
shooting
 As above, but;
 Coach gives each player on each team
a number (E.g., both teams have #s 1 –
4)
 Coach calls out a number and those
two numbers race one another to score
at opposite end first
 Keep track of which team scores most
goals
 Keep the ball close when running
 Use side of foot to pass into goal
 Hit the target
shooting
 Play 3v3 game
the ground as goals
 Always hit target when shooting
shooting

26
Theme Passing 1. Warm Up Topple the Coconut 20 mins
Session 3/8 2. Main Activity Cross Over 20 mins
 Set up players in pairs,
approximately 12 yards apart and
facing one another
 One ball should be at one of the
player’s feet, another ball should be
on top on a cone halfway in between
the 2 players
 Players take turns trying to pass the
free ball to knock the other ball off
the cone
 Players keep track of who does this
most times
 Players should take one step forward
to strike ball
 Stepping forward and striking the ball
should be done in one movement
 Standing foot should be next to the
ball, with toe pointing towards target
 Players should use the inside of their
kicking foot to strike the ball
 After striking the ball the kicking leg
should “follow through”
 Hips should be pointing towards target
 Set up players in pairs, with 2 pairs
per 10x10 grid
 Players have to move around the
grid passing ball back and forth
without bumping into other pair
 Challenge pairs to see who can make
the most passes in a minute
 Challenge pairs to only use their
weak foot
 As above, in addition:
 Look around to make sure of
surroundings so players do not run into
one another
 Play 3v3 game
the ground as goals
 Use correct technique to pass the ball

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Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up Red Light, Green Light 20 mins
Session 4/8 2. Main Activity Police! 20 mins
 Players move around the area, listening
to coach’s command
 “Red” = Stop
 “Green” = Go
 “Yellow” = toe-taps
 “Park” = sit on ball
 “Highway” = go fast
 Use both feet to dribble and control
 As above, add:
 “Start the engine” = box ball
 “Dead End” = Put foot on ball,
drag ball behind and then change
direction
 “Left” = Use outside of left foot
to change direction
 “Right” = Use outside of right
foot to change direction
 “Car Crash” = go down
screaming
 “Police” = coach tries to steal ball and
kick it away (When coach kicks ball
away player is out. Last player
remaining is winner)
 Use both feet
 Shield if necessary
 Keep body between ball and
coach
 Play 3v3 game
the ground as goals

28
Theme Shooting 1. Warm Up Shoot in 2’s 20 mins
Session 5/8 2. Main Activity Shoot in 3’s 20 mins
 Players in pairs
 Set up players approx. 12 yards apart,
with a “goal” in between them
 Make the goal approx. 3 yards wide
using 2 cones as the “posts”
 Players take turns passing to each other,
striking the ball through the goal
 Get players to use both feet
 Make it a competition between groups:
which group can hit it through the
cones the most times consecutively?
 Players should start one step back from
the ball they are kicking
 Players should take one step forward to
strike ball
 Players in groups of three
with a goal between them
 Make the goal approx. 4 yards wide
 One player acts as goal keeper
 Shooting players take turns trying to
score on the goal keeper
 Goal keeper rotates direction after
every shot
 If goal keeper saves shot, he or she rolls
the ball back to the opposite shooting
player
 Rotate GK after each player has had 10
shots
 As above, plus:
 Be sure to hit target every time
teams
 Play 3v3 game
 Use both feet to pass, dribble and shoot
 Always hit target when shooting

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Theme Passing 1. Warm Up Clean the Yard in
Pairs
20 mins
Session 6/8 2. Main Activity Temple of Doom 20 mins
 Coach throws out balls in designated
area
 Players work in pairs to bring the ball
back to the coach in the amount of
passes the coach tells them
 Work together
 Listen to amount of passes required
 One ball between 2 players
 Coach starts at one end of the area and
runs to the other end, while players try
to pass the ball and strike the coach
(below the knee)
 Players collect balls after passing and
get ready for next run by the coach
 As above, in addition:
 Time pass to hit moving target
 Play 3v3 game
the ground as goals
 Strike ball correctly

30
Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up Taking a Swim 20 mins
Session 7/8 2. Main Activity Sharks & Minnows 20 mins
 The field is the ocean
 Players are “minnows”
 All players take a nice, leisurely
“swim” across the ocean by dribbling
their ball from one end to the other
 Keep the ball close and under control
(Look up!)
 As above, but now coach is the
“Shark”
 Players must make it with their ball
from one end to the other without
being caught by the Shark
 When players are caught – have their
ball kicked away – they are “out” and
must sit on their ball outside the area
 Last layer remaining is the winner: that
player becomes the first Shark next
time
(Look up!)
 Play 3v3 game
the ground as goals
 Strike the ball correctly

31
Theme Shooting 1. Warm Up Shoot & Save 20 mins
Session 8/8 2. Main Activity Twist & Shoot 20 mins
 Players in groups of 4
 Set up players in 12x8 yard area
 Set up 4-yard wide goal in the middle,
with GK in goal
 Server takes turns serving ball to two
shooting players
 Shooting players shoot on goal (with 1
touch, if possible)
 GK alternates sides every shot, changing
direction to face the shooter
 Server rotates sides after each player has
had 10 shots
 Players rotate positions after each
shooter has had 10 services from each
side (20 shots total)
 Players stay on toes ready to receive ball
strike ball
 Standing foot should be next to the ball,
with toe pointing towards target
 Hit target (keep ball on the ground)
 Players in groups of 3
with players equally spaced out in a line
 Set up 2 goals, 4 yards in width, at each
end with 1 player in each goal
 GK1 serves to shooting player, who
controls and turns, and then turns and
shoots on GK2
 GK2 then serves ball to shooting player,
who turns and shoots on G1
 Repeat 10 times total (5 each side)
 Have shooting player turn in opposite
direction each time so he or she has to
use both feet to control and to shoot
 Rotate positions after shooter has 10
shots
 As above, plus:
 Player should use the inside of the foot
that is opposite to the direction he or she
wishes to turn to control the ball, e.g. If
wanting to turn to the left, player should
use the inside of their right foot to
control the ball
 Foot player uses to control the ball with
should be in front of their body
 Player should control ball with
“snapping” motion in order that ball
spins in the direction required
 Player should shoot the ball with the
same foot he or she uses to turn
 Use as minimal touches as possible to
turn and shoot
 Goal keepers roll ball on ground so it is
easy to control
 Play 3v3 game
ground as goals
 Hit target when shooting
 Use both feet

32
into club soccer.
Fall and Spring Curriculums
Passing Shooting Dribbling Passing Shooting Dribbling Passing Shooting
Check-Pass Over Lap Juggling Pass & Move Back, Up,
Through
Juggling Gate Game Crosses
Combo Steal the
Bacon
Slanty-Line
Dribbling
Move to Pass Keeper Wars Knock Out 2v1 +1 +1 3v1 to goal
3v3 Game 3v3 Game 3v3 Game 3v3 Game 3v3 Game 3v3 Game 3v3 Game 3v3 Game

33
Theme Passing 1. Warm Up Check-Pass 20 mins
Session 1/8 2. Main Activity Combo 20 mins
 X1 checks to S1, receives pass and
returns it
 X1 jogs backwards to start, then
checks forward to S2, receives pass
and returns it
 Repeat
 Rotate players
 Use inside of foot to control ball
 First touch should be slightly in front of
player
strike ball
 Use alternating feet to pass ball
 X1 runs forward to cone opposite
X2
 X2 passes the ball to X1, who then
passes the ball to X3
 X1 jogs backwards and checks to
cone opposite X3, receives pass
from X3, and then passes straight
to X2
 Repeat pattern
 Rotate players
 As above
teams
 Play 3v3 game
Specific Game Purposes (Outside Coaching Points): Players are groups of three to emphasize the “triangle shape” concept, which the
coach should point out. This is the first practice of the U6 season as this is the time when correct passing technique is going to be the
main focus of the curriculum

34
Theme Shooting 1. Warm Up Over Lap 20 mins
Session 2/8 2. Main Activity Steal the Bacon 20 mins
 X1 passes to X3, and makes
overlapping run around X3
 X3 passes to X2
 X2 plays through-ball for X1 to run on
to
 X1 shoots
 Repeat with X4 passing to X2 and
overlapping
 Rotate players passing and shooting
 Players stay on toes ready to receive
ball
 Use inside of foot to control ball and
pass ball
 Through ball should be played in front
of runner
 Run should be well timed
 Hit target with first touch
 Players split into two teams
 Line of cones 3 yards in front of goals
 Each player on each team given a
number 1-4
 Coach throws out two balls and calls
out a number
 The numbers called run to get the balls
and shoot on goal
 Winner is whoever scores first
 Progress to using one ball
 Progress to calling two numbers at a
time
 Retrieve ball as fast as possible
 Turn quickly
 Get as close to goal as possible
(without crossing line of cones)
 Strike ball cleanly and hit target
 Play 3v3 game
the ground as goals
Specific Game Purposes (Outside Coaching Points): Players are again operating in groups of three in the first exercise to emphasize the
triangle shape.
The Steal the Bacon progressions – using one ball and then calling two numbers at a time - is the introduced at this stage as it gradual
expose players to 1v1 battles. It is important for players to first experience success with the exercise, however, which is why it is
important to begin with players unopposed and using 1 ball each.

35
Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up Juggling 20 mins
Session 3/8 2. Main Activity Slant-Line Dribbling 20 mins
 Players juggle ball individually  Keep eye on ball the whole time
 Use laces to strike ball
 Try to “pop” ball up in air, about head-
height
 All players have a ball
 Coach lays out cones in random
patterns: some close together, some
further apart
 Players dribble in-between cones
 Progress to players counting how many
they can go through in set time
 Progress to only using right, then only
using left foot
 Players dribble ball as fast as they can
 Keep ball close and under control
 Look up to see where they are going
 Use inside and outside of feet to dribble
 Play 3v3 game
ground as goals
Specific Game Purposes (Outside Coaching Points): Slanty-Line Dribbling is used to both challenge and accommodate players. With
cones set up in random fashion and with varying levels of closeness / difficulty all players, no matter what ability, can experience success
and challenges. In addition, cones set out in random fashion with everyone moving together (as opposed to operating in lines with
everyone taking their assigned turn) allows players freedom of choice in making their own decisions – an important concept to begin
implanting at a young age so players can get used to thinking on their own as they get older.

36
Theme Passing 1. Warm Up Move to Pass 20 mins
Session 4/8 2. Main Activity Pass & Move 20 mins
 Players in 3’s, approximately 8
yards apart
 X3 starts with ball, and passes
to space for X1 to run on to
 X1 runs to space, receives ball,
turns, and plays to space for X2
 X2 runs on, receives ball, turns
and plays to space for X3
 X3 runs and receives ball
10x10 yard area
3 players per group
ball
 First touch should be slightly in front
of player
 Players should take one step forward
to strike ball
 Stepping forward and striking the
ball should be done in one movement
 Hips should be pointing towards
target
 X3 passes to X2, and then
moves to space
 X2 receives ball and passes to
X1, the moves to space vacated
by X3
 X1 receives ball, passes to X3,
and then moves to space
vacated by X2
 X3 receives ball, etc.
10x10 yard area
3 players per group
 Continued from above
 Use names when passing
 Weight passes correctly
teams
 Play 3v3 game
 Use either Pugg goals, or 2
cones on the ground as goals

37
Theme Shooting 1. Warm Up Back, Up, Through 20 mins
Session 5/8 2. Main Activity Keeper Wars 20 mins
 X1 passes to X2
 X2 passes to X3
 X3 plays through ball for X1, who
spins out
 X1 finishes with 1-touch
 X2 moves to X1 position
 Repeat on opposite side with X3
playing ball to X4
 Repeat pattern
ball
 Use inside of foot to control ball and
pass ball
 Through ball should be played in front
of runner
 Run should be well timed
 Hit target with first touch
 Players in two teams on opposite
corners of the end line where the goal
is located
 Coach calls “go” and players at the
front of each line begin
 Player at the front of “shooting” line
runs from start position around the
back of the coach and receives pass
from coach. Player then shoots
 Player at the front of the goal keeper
line runs around the back of the goal
and the furthest cone, then races to get
in front of the goal before the shooting
player shoots
 Move quickly
 Shooting player take one touch to set
themselves and one touch to shoot
 Shooting technique should be as above
 Play 3v3 game
the ground as goals
 Shoot using correct technique

38
Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up Juggling 20 mins
Session 6/8 2. Main Activity Knock Out 20 mins
 Players juggle ball individually  Keep eye on ball the whole time
 Use laces to strike ball
 Try to “pop” ball up in air, about head-
height
 Players dribble around the area trying
to kick other player’s balls out of the
area while keeping their own from
being kicked out
 When a player gets knocked out he or
she must juggle for 30 seconds before
coming back in.
 Keep the ball close and under control
 Be conscious of what is going on
around you
 Shield the ball when necessary
 Play 3v3 game
the ground as goals
 Pass and shoot with correct technique

39
Theme Passing 1. Warm Up Gate Game (in pairs) 20 mins
Session 7/8 2. Main Activity Rondo (2v1 +1 +1) 20 mins
 Players in pairs, with one ball for each
pair
 Player with the ball passes to his or her
partner through the “gate”
 Player receiving dribbles the ball to
another gate and passes through that gate
to his or her partner (who follows)
 Repeat pattern
 See which pair can get through the most
gates in a certain period of time
 First touch should be slightly in front of
player
strike ball
 Use alternating feet to pass ball
 Players play 2v1 with end targets
 Players in the middle of the area try to
move the ball from one target to the other
without the opposing player intercepting
 Rotate all players
 Use passing technique as above
 Make sure that players in the middle
passing the ball are always at good
supporting angles
 Move the ball quickly
 Communicate
 Play 3v3 game
ground as goals
 Keep the ball close when dribbling
 Use passing technique as above
 Make sure that players are at good
supporting angles when their team has
the ball
 Move the ball quickly
 Communicate
Specific Game Purposes (Outside Coaching Points): the rondo is the most complicated passing exercise the players go through during the
season, which is why it is introduced last. The addition of a defender adds a more game-like setting, however, as the defender is
outnumbered 4 to 1 it still provides the players in possession a good chance of success. The exercise makes players aware of how to use
combination passes with realistic opposition.

40
Theme Shooting 1. Warm Up Crosses 20 mins
Session 8/8 2. Main Activity 3v1 to Goal 20 mins
 X3 passes to X2 and overlaps
 X2 returns through pass to X3
 X1 makes run when X2 plays ball to X3
 X3 crosses to X1, who shoots on goal
 Rotate player positions
 Switch line for crosses to opposite side
 Use correct passing technique: strike
middle of the ball with the inside middle
of the passing foot; standing foot next to
ball with toe towards target; follow
through with kicking foot after pass
 Time runs
 Weight through ball and cross into
space
 Cross should be exactly like a pass in to
space
 Strike ball with inside of foot when
shooting (“pass to goal”)
 Hit target
 3 players in possession of the ball with
one player defending
 3 players try to score on goal while
defender tries to tackle and intercept
passes
 Players must shoot from outside line of
cones
 Passing and shooting technique should
be emphasized as previously described
 Players should dribble with the ball if
there is no opposition in front of them
 Players without the ball should be at
good supporting angles to player with
the ball
 Players should think and act quickly
 Play 3v3 game
ground as goals
 Passing and shooting technique should
be correct
 Decisions on when to pass, shoot, and
dribble should be considered
 Players should consider passing to space
and moving to space
 Supporting angles should be considered
Specific Game Purposes (Outside Coaching Points): The crossing exercise is the last shooting exercise introduced as it combines the
most different elements (passing, crossing, finishing, moving and passing to space, and timing runs,) and is therefore the most complex.
In addition, the 3v1 to goal is the most complex game-oriented shooting exercise which is why it arrives at the end of the season. The 3v1
to goal also come after the 2v1 +1 +1 rondo session where the same possession concepts are in place, only now with a goal at the end.

41
Pre Academy
The FCCA Pre Academy program, for players 7-9, is the bridge between the completely no-pressure Munchkin program and
the introduction to player’s first competitive experiences in the Academy program.
The program operates on a yearlong, 16 week curriculum, however players are able to sign up on a season-to-season basis.
The structure is one weekday evening practice and one Saturday morning “game” session.
Parents are utilized as volunteer coaches and provided with a pre-season briefing and detailed session plans for each practice.
Pre-Academy soccer focuses on advancing technique, teamwork, and communication, in a fun, positive, and creative learning
environment. The main goals of the program are the enjoyment of soccer, and the progression of skills learned in the
Munchkin Program in preparation for Academy Soccer.
Fall Season
Passing &
Receiving
Shooting Dribbling Passing &
Receiving
Heading &
Throw Ins
Goal
Keeping
Shooting Passing &
Receiving
2-Touch Test Turning &
Shooting
Coervers Find the Free
Player
Heading Handling Switching
Point of
Attack
Find the Free
Player
Find the Free
Player
Through Ball
& Shot
Beat the Crab Over Lap Throw Ins Footwork 4 Goal Game Up, Back,
Through
6v6 Game 6v6 Game 6v6 Game 6v6 Game 6v6 Game 2v2 GK
Game
6v6 Game 6v6 Game
Spring Season
Passing &
Receiving
Shooting Goal
Keeping
Passing &
Receiving
Dribbling 1v1
Defending
Shooting Passing &
Receiving
2-Ball
Passing Test
Up, Back &
Through
Handling Find the Free
Player
Coervers Close Quarter
1v1
Combo Lay
Off
Find the Free
Player
Find the Free
Player
Up, Switch,
Through
Footwork Possession
(5v1)
1v3 Approach
Play 1v1
Combo Lay
Off with
Crossing
Possession
(5v2)
6v6 Game 6v6 Game 4v4 GK
Game
6v6 Game 6v6 Game 6v6 Game 6v6 Game 6v6 Game

42
Theme Passing & Receiving 1. Warm Up Two-Touch Test 20 mins
Session 1/16 2. Main Activity Find the Free Player 20 mins
 One player passes to the other;
receiving player takes one touch with
receiving foot and directs ball through
the cone gate
 Player with the ball then passes back to
his or her partner using the opposite
foot her or she used to control the ball
 Receiving player then does the same –
pattern repeats
strike ball
 Five players total
 Players are set up in a square, with a
player in each corner (approximately 12
yards apart,) and one player in the
middle
 3 out of 4 outside players have a ball
 Outside players take turns (no particular
order) to pass to player in the middle
 Player in the middle receives pass and
plays ball to the outside player who
does not have a ball
 Keep going for 2 minutes
 Rotate players
 Outside players first touch should stop
dead at their feet
 Player in middle’s first touch should be
in the direction he or she wants to turn
strike ball
 Players should use both feet to control
and to pass
 Communication by all players needed
 Set players up in two equal 6v6 teams
and let them play with minimal
interruption
 Team should hold 2-1-2 shape
 Pass ball with correct technique
 Players should be aware that passing
backwards is an option
Specific Game Purpose (outside of coaching points): Find the Free Player is used to get players immediately familiar with being in a 2-1-2 formation, as
they will be playing in a game. It is also used to make players aware that passing the ball in any direction; forwards, centrally, or backwards, is acceptable
if the player being passed to is in an open position.

43
Group Pre Academy Age Group 7-8 Year Olds
Theme Shooting 1. Warm Up Turning and Shooting 20 mins
Session 2/16 2. Main Activity Through Ball 20 mins
 X1 passes to X2
 X2 takes one touch with his or her
outside foot to guide the ball centrally
and towards the goal
 X2 turns inside towards the ball, takes
one or two more touches and then
shoots on the goal before crossing the
line of cones
 X1 then passes to player on the
opposite side
 Pattern repeats, rotate player’s
positions
ball
 First touch of receiving player should
be inside and in front, so he or she can
immediately run
 Players should try to take three
touches; one to receive, one to set up,
one to shoot
 Players strike and the ball using the
inside of their foot or laces
 Hit target
 Players communicate when passing
 X2 checks away to the cone behind
him or her, and then checks back
towards passing player
 X1 passes to X2, X2 then immediately
passes backwards
 After X2 passes backwards he or she
runs around outside cone and angles
run towards goal
 X1 passes ball forwards between back
and inside cone for X2 to run on to
 X2 runs on to through ball pass, takes
one or two touches, and then shoots on
goal
 Repeat on opposite side of the field
 Players rotate positions
 As above, plus;
 Receiving player be sure to
check away before check to pass
 Time run and pass
interruption
 Forward players should look to turn
inside towards goal when receiving ball
with their back to goal, and shoot on
target as soon as possible

44
Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up Coervers 20 mins
Session 3/16 2. Main Activity Beat the Crab 20 mins
 Players copy various coerver skill moves
that the coach demonstrates
 Break area into four equal sections with a
goal at one end
 Two defending players are in each of the
middle sections in the “crab position”
 Crab position = on all fours but
with back to ground
 Attacking player attempts to dribble
through Crabs (who can only move
inside their specific area), all the way to
end line and shoot
 Repeat 3 times, and then have players
switch positions
 Look up between touches
 Bend knees and dip shoulder when
changing direction
 Be creative and use skill moves is
possible
 Move as fast as possible while keeping
ball under control
 Shoot on target
interruption
 Keep ball close and under control when
dribbling and look up between touches
possible
ball under control
 Shoot on target
Specific Game Purposes (outside of coaching points): Beat the Crab is the first dribbling exercise used as it provides attacking players with opposition, but
opposition that is naturally hindered, and therefore opposition that the attacker has a good chance of success against.

45
Theme Passing & Receiving 1. Warm Up Find the Free Player 20 mins
Session 4/16 2. Main Activity Over lap 20 mins
middle
 Rotate players
dead at their feet
strike ball
and to pass
 Set up and spacing as above
 X2 to X3; X3 to X1
 X2 calls “hold” and makes overlapping
run around X1
 X1 plays ball for X2 to run on to
 X1 and X2 switch positions
 Other side goes: X5 to X3; X3 to X4;
X5 overlaps and receives through ball;
X4 and X5 switch starting positions
 Rotate player in middle
 As above, plus:
 Players who receive second pass and
“holds” it need to take their first touch
to the inside (to draw attention away
from the overlapping run)
 Through ball should be in front of
overlapping player, but under control
 Emphasize when player overlaps the
“hold” player drops back to cover
position
interruption
possible
ball under control
 Shoot on target
 Encourage overlapping runs
Specific Game Purposes (outside of coaching points): Overlap is used to make defense players aware of their attacking role, and attacking players aware
that if a defender runs past them, he or she should drop and cover their position. In addition, the exercise makes players aware of moving after passing, and
passing the ball into space for someone to run on to.

46
Theme Heading & Throw Ins 1. Warm Up Heading 20 mins
Session 5/16 2. Main Activity Thrown Ins 20 mins
Time 60 mins 3. Progression a. Head Catch Game
b. 6v6 Game
20 mins
 Set up players in pairs, taking turns
heading back to one another
1. Hold ball with 2 hands and move head
forward and ball backwards to connect
(like putting head through a painting)
2. Hold ball with 1 hand and move head
forward and ball back
3. One player lies flat on ground on
stomach; partner throws ball to that
player’s head. (Rotate after 10 goes)
4. One player lies on stomach with back
arched up, using hands for support;
partner throws ball to that player’s head.
(Rotate after 10 goes)
5. One player kneels up; partner throws ball
to that player’s head. (Rotate after 10
goes)
 Make sure service is appropriate
(use under-arm service)
 Use forehead to head ball
 Keep eyes open
 Use neck and back muscles to propel
head through ball
 When on knees; arch back backwards
from hips when ball is thrown; use
all back and neck muscles to propel
upper body forward and move head
through ball; fall forward using
hands to protect oneself when
landing
 Set up players in pairs, 6 – 8 yards apart
 Players take turns throwing ball to one
another
 Players throw ball to each other’s mid-
section
 Receiving players use knee or foot to
control ball
 Throwing players stand with both
feet on ground, shoulder-width apart
 Both hands together behind ball
 Lift ball completely behind head
 Move ball forward, back over head
 Release ball when hands are directly
above head
 After releasing ball, arms continue
following through in forward motion
 Thrown ball with appropriate pace
 Receiving player cushions ball by
withdrawing knee or foot when
contact with ball is made
interruption
A. Players have to progress ball by
throwing to one another with proper
throw-in technique. Turn overs by
dropping the ball or incorrect technique.
Score only with headers
B. Regular 6v6 game
possible
ball under control
 Shoot on target
 Encourage overlapping runs
 Use proper throw in techniques during
game
Specific Game Purposes (outside coaching points): Heading is not an essential skill to master at this age, however, the exercise is used to just introduce
and expose players to the concept. Thrown ins are taught to enable players to never turn the ball over during a game due to a foul thro

47
Theme Goal Keeping 1. Warm Up Handling 20 mins
Session 6/16 2. Main Activity Footwork 20 mins
Time 60 mins 3. Progression 2v2 All Keepers 20 mins
A. Players individually with a ball
i. Throw ball to oneself while
moving around
ii. Bounce ball to oneself while
moving around
B. Players with partners
Throwing and bouncing ball to one
another with variety or services while
moving around
 Get both hands behind ball, with thumbs
touching; bring ball into body after
catching
 Get body behind the ball by moving feet
Set up various “goals” in designated area
 Half the players are in goal, half with a
ball
 Players try to score in any goal possible
 Players continually move to different
goals to try to catch goal keepers
unaware
 Players only shoot from 3+ yards away
from goal
 Players “pass” ball at medium pace, not
hit it as hard as they can
 Goal keepers constantly looking around
to see where attack is coming from
 Goal keepers move feet to put
themselves in the best position to face
the shot
catching
 Set up group into teams of 2v2
 One ball per group
 Players try to score by throwing the ball
past the other teams goal keepers
 Throw ball using throw-in technique or
roll on the ground
the shot
catching

48
Theme Shooting 1. Warm Up Switching Point of Attack 20 mins
Session 7/16 2. Main Activity 4 Goal Game 20 mins
 X1 plays ball backwards to X2, X2
controls ball and passes forward to X3
 X2 takes one touch with his or her
outside foot to guide the ball centrally
and towards the goal
 X3 turns inside towards the ball, takes
one or two more touches and then
shoots on the goal before crossing the
line of cones
 First touch of receiving player should be
inside and in front, so he or she can
immediately run
 Players should try to take three touches;
one to receive, one to set up, one to
shoot
 Players strike and the ball using the
inside of their foot or laces
 Hit target
 Players communicate when passing
 Players in two teams
 Four goals are placed on each side of the
area
 Both teams can score in any goal
 Shoot whenever possible, using correct
technique
 When one goal is blocked the team in
possession should look to move the ball
to an undefended goal
interruption
 Shoot on target
Specific Game Purposes (outside of coaching points): Switching the Point of Attack, which is the emphasis in the 4 Goal Game, is an important soccer
concept for players to understand. The 4 Goal game exposes players to the idea of switching the point of attack while being able to have multiple chances
to score.

49
Session 8/16 2. Main Activity Up, Back, Through 20 mins
middle
plays ball to the outside player who does
not have a ball
 Rotate players
dead at their feet
strike ball
and to pass
 Set up and spacing as above
 X1 plays to X2, and then times
overlapping run around X2
 X2 plays to X3
 X3 plays through ball for X1 to run on
to
 X2 drops back to X1’s start position, X1
moves to X2’s start position
 Repeat on opposite side with X4 playing
to X5 to X3
 Rotate player in the middle
 As above, plus:
 Through ball should be in front of
overlapping player, but under control
 Emphasize when player overlaps the
“hold” player drops back to cover
position
interruption
possible
ball under control
 Shoot on target
 Encourage overlapping runs and uo,
back, and through passing

50
Theme Passing & Receiving 1. Warm Up Two-Ball Passing Test 20 mins
Session 9/16 2. Main Activity Find the Free Player 20 mins
 Players pass two balls back and forth to
each other at the same time
middle
not have a ball
 Rotate players
dead at their feet
strike ball
and to pass
interruption

51
Theme Shooting 1. Warm Up Up, Back, Through 20 mins
Session 10/16 2. Main Activity Up, Switch, Through 20 mins
 X1 plays to X2 and makes overlapping
run
 X2 plays ball backwards to X3
 X3 plays through ball for X1 to run on
to
 X1 takes one or two touches and
shoots on goal before reaching line of
cones
 X1 collects ball and goes to X2’s
position, X2 drops to X1’s position
 Play on opposite side with X4 to X5 to
X3
 Rotate positions
ball
 Players strike and control ball using
the inside of their feet
 Shooter needs to time run
 Through ball played in front of runner
 Take minimal touches when receiving
through ball
 Hit target with shot
 X1 plays to X2
 X2 plays to X3
 X3 plays to X4
 As X3 is playing to X4, X5 makes
overlapping run
 X4 receives ball and turns inside, then
plays through ball to X5
 X5 takes a touch to set up and then
shoots before line of cones
 As above
interruption
 Shoot on target
 Try to switch point of attack and make
over lapping runs

52
Theme Goalkeeping 1. Warm Up Handling 20 mins
Session 11/16 2. Main Activity Triple Goal 20 mins
Time 60 mins 3. Progression Dodgeball 20 mins
C. Players individually with a ball
j. Throw ball to oneself while moving
around
ii. Bounce ball to oneself
D. Players with partners
Throwing and bouncing ball to one
another with variety or services while
moving around
catching
 Get body behind the ball by
 Set up 3 cones in triangle shape
(creating 3 “goals”) with one goal
keeper in the middle, three players
around the outside, and one ball
 Players on the outside try to score past
the goal keeper by passing the ball
through any of the two cones
 Outside players try to move the ball as
quickly as possible
 Shooting players make sure to not hit
the ball too hard when shooting
 Goal keepers constantly looking around
to see where attack is coming from
the shot
catching
 Set players in two teams
 Goal keepers are on the same team as
players in area furthest away from them
 Players have to stay in designated areas
 1 ball for the game
 Object of the game is to throw ball and
hit a member of the other team below
waist
 Teams get 1pt for hitting player, 1 pt for
catching the ball
 Turn over if ball hits ground when
passing to teammate
 Goal keepers can throw ball in other
team’s goal
 Throw ball using throw-in technique
catching
 Move the ball quickly between team
mates

53
Session 12/16 2. Main Activity 5v1 Possession 20 mins
middle
 Rotate players
ball
dead at their feet
strike ball
and to pass
 Team in possession of the ball tries to
keep the ball away from the
opposition’s defender for as long as
possible
 When possession is lost the opposite
team gets possession of the ball and the
team now not in possession sends in a
defender to try to win it
 Possession switches when a defender
wins the ball, the team in possession
play it out of bounds, or the team in
possession complete a certain number
of passes. (8 is good)
 Rotate which players go into act as a
defender
 Technique as above
 Side in possession should be always be
in their toes ready to receive the ball,
and aware their surroundings in order to
move the ball quickly
 Judge the correct distance on when to
pass the ball to a supporting player after
drawing the defender in
 Maintain shape but still move to create
the best possible passing angles
interruption
 Teams should try and maintain
possession for as long as possible

54
Theme Dribbling 1. Warm Up Coervers 20 mins
Session 13/16 2. Main Activity 1v3 20 mins
 Players copy various coerver skill moves
that the coach demonstrates
 Set up 5x20 grid
 3 players (D1, D2, D3) set up
individually, 5 yards apart on lines
 Player in possession attempts to dribble
through defensive players
 Defensive players can only move side to
side on their line
 Rotate attackers and defenders
 Look up between touches
 Bend knees and dip shoulder when
changing direction
possible
ball under control
 Shoot on target
interruption
possible
ball under control
 Shoot on target

55
Theme 1v1 Defending 1. Warm Up Close Quarter 1v1 20 mins
Session 14/16 2. Main Activity Approach Play 1v1 20 mins
 X1 passes to X2
 X2 receives and tries to dribble to
opposite end line
 X1 defends
 Turn is over when either X2 reaches the
end line or X1 wins the ball and kicks it
out of bounds
 X3 and X4 go next
 Players rotate who attacks and defends
 Stay on toes
 Do not over-commit
 Stay side-on
 Remain patient
 When tackling use inside of foot and
follow through on ball
 X1 passes to X2
 X2 receives and tries to dribble goal
 X1 defends
 Turn is over when either X2 scores or X1
wins the ball and kicks it out of bounds
 X3 and X4 go next
 Players rotate who attacks and defends
 As above, plus:
 Approach fast
 Curve defensive run to protect goal and
force player away
 Slow down at appropriate distance
 Maintain appropriate distance from
player with ball
interruption
 Shoot on target
 Defend using the correct technique

56
Theme Shooting 1. Warm Up Combo Lay Off 20 mins
Session 15/16 2. Main Activity Combo with Cross 20 mins
 X1 plays ball through cones to X2 and
makes run to opposite side of X2
 X2 receives ball and players return pass
through opposite cones in front of X1’s
run
 X1 takes one big touch to set him or
herself up for a shot on goal
 X1 shoots on goal
 (Next player in line goals)
 Rotate which player is laying pass off
 Rotate which sides players start from
 Progress to players making an initial
double-pass
 Passes should be done using the correct
technique
 Receiving player needs to be on his or
her toes ready to react quickly
 Receiving player should try to play the
ball with one touch
 Return pass should be made in front of
the shooting player
 Shooting player’s first touch should be a
big one (to break free of the defense)
 Shot should be with the correct
technique and hit the target
 Set up in 30x15 space
 X1 to X3, X1 follows pass; X3 turns and
shoots, then drops to take X1’s position;
X1 takes X3’s position
 X2 or X5 goes next and passes to X1
and follows pass; X1 turns and shoots
and then drops to take passing player’s
position
 X4 passes to middle player, who turns
and shoots, and then follows pass
 Repeat pattern
 As above, plus
 X3 should time his or her run to begin as
X1 receives the return pass
 X1’s pass should be well in front of X3
 X2 should time his or her run to not
arrive in front of the goal before the
cross is made
 X3’s cross should be played in front of
X2
interruption
 Shoot on target
 Defend using the correct
 Encourage combination play

57
Session 16/16 2. Main Activity 5v2 Possession 20 mins
middle
not have a ball
 Rotate players
dead at their feet
strike ball
and to pass
 Team in possession of the ball tries to
keep the ball away from the opposition’s
defenders for as long as possible
 When possession is lost the opposite
team gets possession of the ball and the
team now not in possession sends in two
defenders to try to win it
 Possession switches when a defender
wins the ball, the team in possession
play it out of bounds, or the team in
possession complete a certain number of
passes. (8 is good)
 Rotate which players go into act as a
defender
 Technique as above
 Side in possession should be always be
in their toes ready to receive the ball, and
aware their surroundings in order to
move the ball quickly
 Judge the correct distance on when to
pass the ball to a supporting player after
drawing the defender in
 Maintain shape but still move to create
the best possible passing angles
interruption
 Teams should try and maintain
possession for as long as possible

58
Pre Academy
Game Progressions
The Pre Academy program has conditioned intra-program games for the first 4 – 5 weeks of the season
in order to not overwhelm players. In either the 5th
or 6th
week of each season the program hosts a mini
tournament with unrestricted play and outside organizations taking part, in order to expose the Pre
Academy players to more competitive soccer and a glimpse of what Academy soccer will entail.
Although it may change slightly from season to season, the Saturday game sessions will roughly be the
following:
Week 1 Teams progressing with ball, unopposed, to opposite end of field with each team
member touching the ball; 6v6 Games
Week 2 Teams progressing with ball, unopposed, to opposite end of the field, completing set
number of passes in each area (3 areas of field); 6v6 Games
Week 3 Teams have players distributed in sections of the field (opposition); 6v6 Games
Week 4 6v6 Games
Week 5 Tournament
Week 6 NCYSA Roadshow (3v3 Street Soccer)
Week 7 6v6 Games
Week 8 End of Season Games (Possible Tournament)

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