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Guide to Competitive Coaching

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The purpose of this document is to provide a consistent approach to the way ALL our FC Boulder competitive teams are organized and coached.

Mission and Goals

FC Boulder empowers all athletes to become superior soccer players. FC Boulder competitive teams service all age groups and all levels of play, enabling players to compete at their highest potential – from their first soccer experience through the rest of their lives.

Beyond specific soccer skills, FC Boulder instills virtues in our players that are useful long after the last whistle blows. Character. Sportsmanship. Discipline. Fitness. Achievement. Winning and losing the right way.

FC Boulder hopes that all players ages 3 through adults, will count their experiences with FC Boulder as an indelible part of their lives by acquiring a love of the game – for all the right reasons – that will last for a lifetime.

The official FC Boulder Mission and Values Statement is available at:Fcboulder.com/our-club/our-mission-values

Universal Philosophies

Player development is the top priority for all FC Boulder coaches. Coaches should always consider what is best for the individual player as part of a bigger picture. Coaches should encourage players to be creative and express themselves on the field. Coaches must teach players how to win games. They must also teach players how to deal with losing

games. Coaches should encourage competition at all levels, and as often as possible in the context of training,

as a way to challenge all players to improve.

Expected Coaching Behaviors

Games will be won, lost and tied – find teaching moments from each type of result. Look for improvement from game to game – emphasis should be on continual improvement in the

quality of play. With input from your players as appropriate, set realistic individual and team goals prior to the start

of the season and revisit them throughout the season. Encourage players to play at their highest level at all times. Encourage the best players to play in demanding positions. Encourage players to participate in additional training sessions when appropriate. Have organized practices, which are fun, up-tempo, challenging and competitive. Provide a variety of exercises to allow for repetitions of soccer fundamentals that also emphasize the

key principles of the game. Be excited about the game. The players will follow suit. Look for ways to inspire your players. When communicating with the players, be positive, keep it simple and be specific. When communicating with the players, make eye contact with each player. Speak in a calm voice. Be positive and encouraging. Use the Socratic method – a form of inquiry and debate between individuals with opposing viewpoints

based on asking and answering questions to stimulate critical thinking and to illuminate ideas.

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Responsibilities of Head Coaches on FC Boulder Competitive Teams

The ‘Common Thread’ for our Teams- When we step on the field, we intend to improve – every practice and every game.- We look for ways to give the team the best opportunity to be successful.- We win as a team, we lose as a team.- Encourage players to play with flair, creativity and confidence.- Respect, but never fear your opponent.- Accept the referee’s decisions.- Play within the team concept.- Communicate with your teammates.- Coach each other on the field.- We try to control the pace of the game.- When we have the ball, we want to create space on the field.- When the opponent has the ball, we want to take away the space on the field.- When we have the ball, look to play forward; however, if you don’t like what you see, keep the ball

moving and keep it in the team.- Keep the team together, don’t get too stretched out.- Constructive criticism is necessary for any player or team to develop.- We want to promote attacking soccer.- We want to play in the opponent’s half.- ‘Touch and play’- On free kicks, unless the ball is close to goal – touch and play quick.- It’s a marathon, not a sprint, so be patient.- We want to play in the opponent’s half.- On free kicks, unless the ball is close to goal – touch and play quick.- It’s a marathon, not a sprint, so be patient.

Communication- Be positive.- Be upbeat and energetic.- Each player should hear their name in a positive manner.- Be aware of your body language.- Ask questions.- Coach the positives.- Encourage your players.

Coach-Parent Communication1. Organize a pre-season meeting (within two weeks after Player Placements) in which you should

discuss the following:- Coaching philosophy- Team goals (in conjunction with players)- Player expectations- Parent expectations- Sideline behavior Encourage your parents to bring a chair to the games. You set the example by providing a bench for

your players. You set the tone and the parents will follow your lead. Let the parents know that they are welcome to support the players, however, they are not allowed to yell instructions.

Please leave the officials alone! Mistakes and ‘lousy’ calls will happen, however, over the course of a season the calls will even out.

- Car pool- Training schedule- Game Schedule- Tournament schedule- Seasonal calendar- Yearly calendar - Weekly emails (sample)

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Sunday evening or Monday morning email to the parents (sample)

All,

Here is just a quick reminder of this week’s practice schedule.

We will train Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 4-5:30 PM at Foothills Park. Remember your practice jerseys! Monday is red, Wednesday is white and Friday is black.

If you are going to be late or if you need to miss a practice, please let me know in advance so that I can plan accordingly.

I will send out specifics in regards to this weekend’s games later on in the week.

Have a great week and thanks for supporting the team!

Thursday evening or Friday morning email to the parents (sample)

All,

Here is information in regards to this weekend’s game.

Saturday March 1411:00 AMPleasant View #5FC Boulder vs Storm

Players should arrive no later than 45 minutes prior to game time. Since it is our home game we will be wearing our dark uniform, however, please bring your white uniform just in case.

Thanks and go FC Boulder!

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Group Control- Set high standards from the start: If somebody speaks, we all listen. We come to practice to work hard, learn become better and have fun!- Be fair and consistent with your discipline.- Give players the opportunity to have responsibilities.- Monitor and adjust control when necessary. Tight vs more loose.

Player Development Develop the players’ technical abilities.

- Please refer to Training Expectations in the Various Age Groups for more specifics. Develop the players’ appreciation of the game. Keep winning and losing in proper perspective. Be sensitive to the player’s developmental needs. Educate the players to the technical, tactical, physical and psychological demands of the game. Allow players to experience different roles on the field. Allow the players to have fun. Provide the players with constructive feedback. Conduct practices that foster a spirit of enjoyment and learning. Strive to help each player reach his/her full potential. Facilitate promotion up to a higher team. Look for, and emphasize improvement!

Organizing a Practice Arrive at least 15 minutes early to set up your practice area. Be organized. Provide a safe practice area. Have appropriate training gear communicated. Before practice, write a lesson plan that you will bring to the field. Lessons learned in games should be addressed in subsequent practices. That is, practices should

address issues that surface during matches. Have the proper equipment. Communicate the proper training gear sequence: Red (1st), white (2ND), black (3RD). Provide a fun, challenging and competitive practice environment (Keep score). Be inventive and imaginative in your planning. Try new training sessions. Don’t interrupt too much - Let the game of soccer be the teacher. Your coaching points must be brief, to the point and at the appropriate times. Players should be active as much as possible. Avoid lines of multiple players and at all times avoid

situations in which players are static. Develop a ‘flow’ to the practice session. - A quick transition from one activity to the next.- An intelligent progression to your practice. At the end of your practice, the players should already look forward to the next practice. Evaluate and reflect on the training session. Be open minded to listen to new ideas.

Pre-Game Organization Players should arrive at least 45 minutes prior to the start of the game. Pre-game preparation should start 35 minutes prior to the start of the game. Actual physical warm-up

and exertion should begin about 25 minutes before game time. The pre-game warm-up is designed for players to be physically, mentally and emotionally ready to

play the game from the start. Here is an example of what a pre-game warm-up could look like:- At 40 minutes: Briefly discuss the upcoming game and get the players focused.- At 35 minutes: Dynamic warm-up of running exercises with a focus on muscle preparation.- At 25 minutes: Ball exercises including dribbling, passing, receiving, volleys and headers.- At 17 minutes: A possession game.

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- At 10 minutes: Some finishing if space allows.- At 5 minutes: Bring the players in for hydration, starting line-up and/or last minute instructions.- Start game.- Make sure you have your roster and player cards on top of your bench.- Players on the bench must wear bibs.- Players should line up their bags to make the sideline look orderly.

During the Game Analyze the game. Taking notes can be helpful in preparing halftime comments and upcoming training

sessions. For example, consider: What are we doing well? What is the opponent doing well? What are our weaknesses? What are the weaknesses of the opponent?

Make appropriate substitutions.- Please see segment on Playing Time.

Make the appropriate adjustments. Limit ‘joystick’ coaching - guide your players in making their own decisions on the field. Limit coaching the player with the ball.- Coach players off the ball.- Focus on all areas of the field.- Think about what is next. Encourage and provide positive feedback.- Be aware of your sideline behavior.- Be respectful of the officials.- Save your comments to the official until halftime.

Half-time Check on injuries. Make sure all players are seated, drinking and paying attention. Demand eye contact and engagement of your players. Ask players for their feedback. (No more than 2 or 3 players) Guided discovery. Communicate first-half observations. Offer the players suggestions for improvement and solutions for some of the problems that might have

occurred in the first half. (No more than 3 suggestions) Provide no more than three suggestions.- Use visual aids if appropriate.- Find the balance between motivational and tactical points.

Post-Game

Check on injuries. Cool down. Review the game briefly and bring closure to the game experience. (5-10 min max) Have a more detailed analysis at the first practice after the game. (5-10 min max) Discuss schedule for next game or announce next practice. Team announcements. Don’t keep the players too long – be respectful to parents. FCB “High 5” Reflect on the game as you Plan your next practice. Provide a short email summary statement about the game to players and team parents, and distribute

within 48 hours of the end of the match. Send post-game stats to Technical Director.

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Ethics Strive to maintain integrity within the sport. Know and follow all the rules and policies set forth by FC Boulder, CSA, US Soccer, FIFA, etc. Work in a spirit of cooperation to provide the players with the maximum opportunity to develop. Be a positive role model.

- This could be one of the FCB ‘Wheels” on website. Set the standard for sportsmanship. Keep the game in proper perspective. Encourage moral and social responsibility.

- PCA Principles to be added. Continue your own soccer education and professional development.

Miscellaneous Attend all practices and games. If possible, view practices of other coaches. Watch other teams within your age group pertaining to player movement. Follow guidelines established by the FC Boulder Coaching Staff. Communicate FC Boulder goals and policies to players and parents. Wear FC Boulder attire at practice and games.

Player Evaluations and Progress Reports As part of ongoing player development, each U11-U14 FC Boulder player will receive a written progress report following the fall and spring seasons. Each U15-U18 player will receive a written evaluation after his or her respective season has ended.

Do not make any promises to players or parents. Be honest with a soft touch. If possible, communicate face to face with your players.

Safety FC Boulder’s first responsibility is the health and safety of all participants. Be prepared to handle First Aid situations as well as medical emergencies at all practices and games. FCB in cooperation with BCSM will provide an annual 1st Aid workshop. FCB will provide an annual Concussion workshop. Know and understand the FIFA Laws of the game. Inspect equipment and field conditions for safety reasons, prior to practices and games. Utilize proper teaching of players regarding safe techniques and methods of play. Implement appropriate training programs to make sure players are fit for practice and competition. Supervise and control your players so as to avoid injury situations. No hanging on goals. Require all players to wear shin guards at all practice sessions. Emergency plan protocol. (Aaron)

Lightning Policy Seek shelter immediately in presence of lightning. Appropriate shelters include inside cars, in enclosed

buildings and under lightning shelters. Do not seek shelter under trees or building overhangs. Lightning can strike up to 10 miles ahead of a storm. It does not have to be raining for lightning to strike. In fact, more people are struck by lightning in dry

conditions than in rainy conditions. Every 5 seconds between the ‘flash’ and the ‘boom’ equates one mile distance. If hair ‘stands on end’ or ‘floats up’ you are in the presence of an electric charge and should seek

shelter immediately. Shelter should be sought in enclosed building or cars. You should wait a minimum of 30 minutes after the last lightning or thunder to resume activities.

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FC Boulder Players’ Responsibilities Be on time for practices and games. Communicate with your coach before you have to miss a practice

or game. If you happen to be late to practice, run to your field. Take care of your equipment, and the club’s equipment. Be respectful towards your teammates, coaches, opponents, officials and parents. Represent your team and FC Boulder with pride and class at all times. Practice the way you want to play in the game. Take care of your body. Eat healthy, drink plenty of water and get your rest. Do not blame teammates in practices or games - everyone makes mistakes. Work harder when

mistakes are made. Give your best at all times - even when things are not working out as expected. Give your positive energy to the team. Learn when to dribble on your own and when to pass to a teammate. That is the beauty and joy of the

game – finding your unique contribution to the success of the team.

Proper Training Habits for Players Arrive on time – which means before practice begins. Wear the appropriate training kit, shin guards and appropriate soccer shoes. Come to practice with the proper mindset:- A willingness to learn- A willingness to focus and concentrate- A willingness to work hard- A willingness to improve and get better Be coachable – be open to advice and suggestions. Practice the way the game is played. Practices are mandatory. Players must communicate with the coach in advance if missing a practice. Make eye contact when communicating with your coach.

Mental Training for our players

Developing a winning mentality requires strong character and a positive attitude.

Self TalkPlayers are encouraged to talk positively to themselves to overcome challenges. Fill your head with positive suggestions such as: I can do this. I will do this. I will get better. This is fun.

Focus refocusPlayers are encouraged to focus on a task from beginning to end. Set goals. Use a routine. Use ‘trigger’ words. Use imagery and visualization.

Goal settingSet individual and team goals. Set short term and long term goals.

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Being serious about competing and winning, involves eating and drinking healthy. If you want plenty of energy during training and to feel strong all game long, then one of the important things you can do is to eat the right foods.

Soccer Nutrition Punch List– Curt Thompson

1. For top soccer performance, make food a top priority throughout the season.2. Choose whole foods over processed foods as much as possible (think food that was recently alive and

growing). Follow the 18-21 Rule: make 18 out of the 21 meals each week healthy.3. Minimize the intake of added sugar and avoid artificial sweeteners. (Soda, candy, etc.)4. Hydrate with water daily and carry a water bottle so you can monitor how much you drink. Minimum

is approximately two quarts per day with an additional quart for each hour of exercise.5. Have food prepared each day by packing your own lunch and snacks. Example: sandwich, whole fruit,

nut and dried fruit mix, and some form of vegetable. 6. Avoid sweet breakfast foods and do not skip breakfast. It is your grounding meal. 7. Practice the content and timing of your pregame meal so you know what works for you. Avoid sweets

and spicy foods as well as dairy (can cause congestion) and slow digesting high fat foods.8. Within 45 minutes of finishing a game or strenuous practice, consume some carbohydrate and a small

amount of protein. Example: a whole grain bagel with peanut butter.9. Continue to rehydrate with water after game/practice until urine runs clear or the color of pale

lemonade. 10. Use sport drinks only when necessary and never as a casual beverage. Do not consume energy drinks.11. Continue to rehydrate with water after game/practice until urine runs clear or the color of pale

lemonade. 12. Use sport drinks only when necessary and never as a casual beverage. Do not consume energy drinks.

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CSA Standard of Conduct for Players Do not address remarks to opposing players, coaches, spectators or the officials. Do not retaliate. Avoid comments or gestures, which express disagreement with referee calls. Display of temper will not be tolerated Convey a positive attitude toward your teammates and coaches. Play against your opponents, not the referee. Focus on the things that you can control. Don’t waste your energy on things beyond your control.

Community ServiceAll U15-18 boys and girls’ teams will serve as “big brothers and sisters” to our younger members by volunteering their time on multiple occasions throughout the season, as well as other volunteer opportunities. These volunteer hours can count toward school required hours, but also serve the greater purpose in connecting our whole community.

FC Boulder Parents’ Responsibilities Provide support for all players on the team through positive encouragement, cheerleading and supportive comments. Allow the coaches to coach to the best of their ability and allow the players to play to the best of their ability.

Do not coach from the parents’ sidelines. Give positive energy to all players on the team. Allow coaches to coach, officials to officiate and players to play. Understand the chain of communication: Team coach, Age group Director, Technical Director,

Executive Director. Do not talk negatively about another child, in front of your child. Any complaints or questions to your coach need a 24 hour buffer.

CSA Standard of Conduct for Spectators Take a position on the opposite side of the field from your players and your coaches. Do not address remarks to referees, opposing players or opposing fans. Never use foul language or obscene gestures. Avoid remarks toward your own team players who make mistakes. Applaud superior play by both teams. Give consistent support to coaches and managers whether winning or losing. Always stay at least two yards from the playing field. Cooperate with a referee request. Avoid comments and gestures, which express disagreement with referee calls.

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FC Boulder Guidelines for Playing Time for Competitive Soccer

FC Boulder does not have a specific requirement regarding the number of minutes each player must play in a given game. FCB coaches are entrusted to make the best decisions possible toward the success of their teams and the development of their players. However, several principles guide the club’s philosophy and practices with regard to playing time.

1. Playing time is important to both players and parents. Families invest a great deal of time and money to the competitive soccer experience, and playing in games is the reward that both players and their parents anticipate in great measure. Making a contribution during the game is also fundamental to the development of players’ self-efficacy, as well as their proficiency as soccer players. Hence, we acknowledge that every player wants and needs to play as much as possible.

2. While winning is secondary to other goals in the club (e.g., creating a safe and healthy environment for kids to play soccer, developing character in children and young adults, helping children and young adults develop healthy and strong bodies, etc), instilling a passion for success, a drive to win games, and a goal to advance as individuals and teams is paramount to the competitive soccer experience. As such, some games take on more significance than others. Playing time for players may vary from week to week depending on the significance of the game, the quality of the opponent, and the context of the game.

3. This is competitive soccer. Therefore, playing time in games is earned. Players who faithfully attend practices, consistently apply themselves toward becoming a better player, behave appropriately and positively impact the success of the team are likely to receive more playing time during games than their peers that do not display the same sort of commitment and passion for the game.

4. Training sessions are designed to foster healthy competition among players. This is important not only for the development of players’ character, physical stamina, and psychological fortitude, it is also important to prepare them for the rigors of match play. The degree to which players learn to compete well in practice often times impacts the playing time they receive on the weekend.

5. It is FC Boulder’s sincere intent and goal that, over the course of the entire season, each player will contribute in a meaningful way to the team’s success and overall performance. So, while a given player may not receive a full compliment of minutes in one game or another, throughout the season, our coaches endeavor to make sure that all players experience the great reward of contributing to the success of the team during games.

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The FC BOULDER Soccer Curriculum

Style of Play: General Attacking Style – An attacking style based on keeping possession and quick ball movement. Be organized defensively. Good team shape. Immediate transition.

Formation: FC Boulder teams are encouraged to play in a “flexible” 4-3-3 formation. FC Boulder teams are encouraged to play with 4 in the back in which those players are encouraged to

move forward when we are in possession. Ultimately, a formation should be selected that fits the characteristics of a team, and allows the players

the greatest chance for success on the field. Consult with your DOC for selecting and implementing additional systems.

Style of Play: Specific

Technical : - Passing and Receiving: All our players in all age groups should be confident and competent in this

area.- Finishing: All our players should have the ability to shoot from different distances.- Ball control: All our players will be encouraged to control the ball and have confidence on the ball.- 1 vs 1 ability to attack and to defend.- Ball winner.

Tactical :- All our teams should strive to keep possession of the ball moving it freely on the field. The successful

implementation of this playing philosophy depends on strong technical skills, like being able to play one and two-touch soccer.

- All our players should understand their role when supporting and moving off the ball.- All players should understand and immediately respond to the four moments in the game: 1) When we have the ball in our possession. 2) When our opponent has the ball in possession.3) When we lose the ball and must transition to defense. 4) When we win the ball and must transition to offense.- All players and coaches should understand how to manage the game depending on the score.

Physical :- All our players should be trained for balance, coordination, speed, quickness and agility.- All our players should be trained to be fit and resilient to high-intensity action.- All our players should be trained to have functional soccer strength, which will prevent injuries.- All our players must be well-versed on proper nutrition, rest and recovery. (WAGS)

Psychological : - FC Boulder players should demonstrate a ‘Winner’s Mentality’.- Respect and discipline are essential attributes found in every quality player.- A willingness to learn and to be coached is paramount.- Competitiveness is a requirement.- A joy and passion for the game should be evident by the way you play.- Give an honest effort in all practices and games.- Be self-motivated.- Lead by example and be resilient.

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Playing Style – Coaching Considerations (Questions to ask oneself when watching the game)

Consider the four main moments in a game:- We have possession of the ball.- The opponent has possession of the ball.- We have lost the ball and must transition to defense.- We have won the ball and must transition to offense.

When we have possession- The objective of the game is to score goals.- Are we making it difficult for the opponent to defend?- Do we use all the space on the field? Width, depth and height?- Do we make the field as large as possible?- Are we making the opponent chase the ball?- Are we getting the right players in scoring situations?- Is there proper player movement when we have the ball?- Do we have penetrating runs, runs off the ball and well-timed runs?- Does every player understand his/her role when we have the ball?- Are players creating space for each other?- Are we playing the ball deep when appropriate? Are we looking to penetrate?- Are we using the wide players and are we getting crosses in front of the goal?- Are we using the goalkeeper in the build-up?- Is our build-up too fast or too slow? - Are we switching the field?- Are we getting players out of the back involved going forward and are we creating #s up situations?- Are we taking advantage of 1 vs 1 situations?- Are the players communicating and coaching each other?

When the opponent has possession- Is there immediate pressure and are we collectively pressuring the ball?- Are we marking up?- Are we making it difficult for the opponent to start their attack?- Is the spacing between the players correct and are we staying compact? - Do we force the opponent into a space that is as small as possible?- Are we making play predictable?- Are we committing unnecessary fouls?- Are we taking away the opponent’s time and space?- Do we have pressure and cover around the ball?- Are we communicating and coaching each other on the field?- Are we aggressive in winning the 1 vs 1 battles and loose balls?- Is our goalkeeper directing and organizing out of the back?

Transition from attack to defense- How do we lose the ball? Are we turning the ball over on a pass or dribble?- Are we organized behind the ball?- In what part of the field are we most often turning the ball over?- Do the players react immediately during the transition and is there immediate pressure on the ball? - Do we know when to press and when to drop off?

Transition from defense to attack- Are we looking to go forward immediately?- If we cannot go forward, are we looking to keep the ball in the team?- Are we looking to create a flow in our play?- Are we moving into space to make the field as big as possible?- Can we secure the ball?

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Principles of Play:

For the Coach :- Possession games are means to improve technique and tactical understanding.- Possession with the purpose to score or create scoring opportunities.- Demand competition in training to improve your players.- Short but intense working periods based on speed and agility are preferred.- Direction of the game: The game flows in many directions. Preserve and promote the essence of the

game in as much of your practices as possible.

For the Players :- One or two-touch soccer is recommended. Keep the ball moving.- Keep the game simple. Do the simple things correctly and consistently.- Develop confidence in the 1-on-1 situations, both on attack as well as on defense.- Take risks in the final third of the field: Players are encouraged to be creative and take risks in

training. If a mistake is made, focus then on the next action.- Keep the ball on the ground and take pride in your passing.- A clean, controlled first touch that sets up your next successful action.- Think about this progression as you play: Vision, Decision, Execution.- Field and game awareness are key: ‘Swivel’ your head throughout play.- Individual immediate transition from attack to defense, and from defense to attack is imperative.- Take every opportunity to finish in front of goal; All players are encouraged to shoot and go to goal.- Understand your role on the team, and be the best within that role.

For the Team :- All players attack and all players defend.- On offense we look to create numerical advantage in every situation on the field. On defense we avoid

being down numbers.- We want to create a flow of the ball from one area of the field to the next with a purpose of creating

goal scoring opportunities. - Positional play: All our players should understand the concept of creating triangles and diamonds on

the field, and take responsibility to create passing angles through movement.- Great speed of play is the marker of an outstanding player: Quick movement of the ball creates time

and space.- Movement off the ball is a must: All great players should understand the concept of creating passing

lanes and passing angles.- Pressure as a unit: Organized pressure forces mistakes and turnovers.- Transition makes the difference: Immediate transition is crucial during game situations. - Take initiative: Mistakes happen, and therefore, the team must be able to adapt to new situations and

impose its own style of play during the game.

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Coaching Philosophy

The Core - The objective of each training session is to prepare the players for competition. The game shows the

tactical, technical, physical and psychological development of the player.

The Components - Technical: Our players should be individually competent and confident with the ball.- Tactical: Our players should be clever, soccer smart and capable of adapting to the constantly changing

demands of the game.- Physical: Fit players provide an advantage to the team.- Psychological: Our players should be able to keep their focus and concentration at all times.- Social: Our players should be good teammates. They should display the right attitude.

Principles of Age Appropriate Development

U10s - Create a context where players have FUN.- Emphasize the development of skills.- Provide opportunities for many touches on the ball in every training session.- Provide opportunities to repeat exercises and activities.- Organize fun and competitive games.- Focus on functional and coordinated movements.- Spend time on agility, quickness and speed during the warm-up.- Allow for a great deal of unstructured play.

U11s and U12s - Build the technical fundamentals- Develop the individual player.- Promote 1 vs 1 attack and defense- Make use of possession games.- Create a fun and competitive environment.- Utilize small-sided game situations in which the emphasis is on ‘good soccer’ and players are

encouraged to problem solve and make decisions.- Utilize multi goal games.- When on the attack: create space, control the ball, take players on, pass and move to support.- When on defense: contain, defend ball-side and goal side.- Players should gain an understanding of the different positions and responsibilities on the field.- Train the overall body movement and athleticism.- Introduce players to basic nutrition principles.- Functional and coordinated movements.- Agility, quickness and speed during warm-up.- Unstructured play.

U13s and U14s - Practice the technical fundamentals under game pressure.- Train the players to perform with speed and under appropriate levels of pressure.- Provide a fun and competitive environment.- Focus on individual deficiencies.- Emphasize possession games.- Introduction to tactical concepts.- Encourage players to understand the various positions on the field, but players will begin to specialize.- Encourage players to study and to understand various styles of play employed by FC Boulder teams.- Focus on overall body development: proper warm-up and cool down.- Players need to become more aware of nutrition.- Build aerobic base and emphasize flexibility.

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U15s and U16s - Improve the technical aspects of the game under increased pressure.- Encourage players to gain a deeper understanding of tactical concepts.- Improve the quality of play.- Encourage players to develop a deep understanding of their specific roles within the team.- Encourage players to recognize and make tactical adjustments within the game.- Encourage players to focus on overall body movement.- Focus on proper warm-up and cool down.- Build aerobic base and emphasize flexibility.- Players need to be aware of nutrition and performance and therefore make conscious decisions about

nutrition.

U17s and U18s - Continue fine-tuning the technical aspects of the game.- Players should be familiar with pattern play and tactical situations.- Players should train on individual functions or specific roles within the teams formation.- Analyze games and game specific training.- Continue to develop the strength, speed and fitness aspects of the game using the Specific Adaptations

to Imposed Demands (SAID) principle for any fitness design.- Players make conscious decisions about preparing to be successful at the next level.- Players’ habits off the field impact your performance on the field.

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Principles of Seasonal Planning for Development (Excerpt below in italics from U.S. Soccer Coaching Curriculum)

The coach’s work starts before arriving at the soccer field.

Planning the session correctly, for the week and the season, will help the coach identify the team’s needs and deliver a more efficient training session. Properly preparing a training session gives the coach greater confidence with the players and a better understanding of how to adapt the exercises to the team’s and players’ needs on the field. A good coach is a good planner. Using the principles of age appropriate season-planning provided above,, the coach will have the key tools to organize and plan the training session for the team.

Two teams of the same age group will have different ability levels and understanding of the game. In other words, even teams of the same age have different needs. For this reason, the exercises should be delivered according to a particular age group/team.

This document contains the information necessary to create your own plan according to your team. These are the steps to follow when preparing a plan:

Season planThis section will help the coach to quickly organize the season into competitive periods, transition periods (in between competitive periods) and offseason periods in the case of the older age groups. For younger groups, it will be even more essential to have a broader vision of the objectives, content, distribution and means of use during the season.

Macrocycle or 12-week program cycleThe coach can use this plan as it is presented in this document. This 12-week distribution of content ensures that all key elements in the curriculum are covered for each stage and age group. It is organized in two-week periods to give the player enough time to show significant improvement in the specific categories. Please note, this content distribution follows an appropriate order for developing the style and principles of play.

Microcycle or week program This section helps the coach organize weekly training sessions. Each week has a main technical, tactical and physical objective specified in the macrocycle. However, each team is different and has its own learning dynamic. Therefore, the weekly plan is flexible. The team will evolve week after week and the coach must continually identify the team’s needs.

SessionsSessions are the last step of the planning process. In this section the coach can see what sessions look-like for the different stages. Each session is structured the same way, including the following parts: warm-up/movement prep, main part and scrimmage. The main part contains technical, tactical and physical exercises. The coach can use the exercises in the library to select appropriate drills for the team and create his/her own training sessions. Some of the specific organization for the season applies only to the intermediate and advanced stages. The advanced and intermediate stages may change training organization throughout the season in order to be more efficient in competition. The initial and basic stages emphasize development consistency of session structure, in order to consolidate the basics of soccer.

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This organization focuses on the U11 through U14 age groups for boys and girls.

Monthly Outlook

August Competitive Season- Pre-season and start of training/games

September Competitive Season- In-season training/games

October Competitive Season- In-season training/games

November Transition - Post-season tournaments/Futsal/Indoor/WCDA/NPL

December Transition - Futsal/Indoor/WCDA/NPL/Off-season (mid Dec to mid Jan)

January Transition – Pre-Season NPL/Futsal/Indoor

February Competitive Season- Futsal/Indoor/WCDA/NPL/Pre-season tournament

March Competitive Season- In-season training/games/ Pre-season tournament

April Competitive Season- In-season training/games

May Competitive Season- In-season training/games

June Post-season tournaments/Off-season

July Off-season/End of July begin Team Camp and pre-season training

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This organization focuses on the U15 through U18 age groups.

Monthly Outlook

Girls

August Competitive Season- In-season training/gamesEarly tournament/friendlies

September Competitive Season- In-season training/gamesColorado State Cup

October Competitive Season- In-season training/games

November Post-season Showcase Event/Futsal/WCDA/NPL

December Transition- Showcase Event/Futsal/Indoor/WCDA/NPL

January Transition to High School/ OFF

February Transition to High School/ OFFPossible WCDA/College Showcase Event

March High SchoolPossible WCDA/College Showcase Event

April High School/OFF

May High School/OFF

June Possible WCDA/College Showcase Event

July Off- Season/Late July begin team camp and pre-season training

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Monthly Outlook

Boys

August Transition to High School/ OFF

September High School/ OFF/ Possible Tryouts

October High School/ OFF/ Possible Tryouts

November WCDA/NPL

December Transition -Futsal/Indoor/WCDA/NPL/Off-season (mid Dec to mid Jan)

January NPL/Pre-season/Futsal/Indoor

February Competitive Season- In-season training/games WCDA/NPL/Pre-season/Futsal/Indoor

March Competitive Season- In-season training/gamesColorado State Cup

April Competitive Season- In-season training/gamesColorado State Cup

May Competitive Season- In-season training/games

June Post-season tournaments

July Off-season

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Principles of Seasonal Planning for Development Continued

Example structure for a season with three different periods for intermediate and advanced stages:

1. Competitive: Period when the team is training and playing games regularly.2. Transition: Period when the team is training but not playing regularly.3. Off-season: Period when the team is not training or playing regularly.4. Weekly Plan

- Have a written plan. Include space for you to take notes afterward. What went well? What didn’t? How can I make it better next time?

- Technical: At the beginning of the week, the coach will use more unopposed practices focused on the quality of the execution. As the week progresses, more opposition will be used to increase speed, competitiveness and awareness.

- Tactical: At the beginning of the week, the coach will use simple practices, which increase in complexity throughout the week.

- Physical: All aspects of fitness and conditioning as it relates to soccer and youth, need to be periodized and built over the long term. Players need time to mentally and physically adapt to the imposed demands. Therefore, specific functions of soccer like power, speed endurance, mobility and strength are components which need to build over the course of the season, not just in one week.

- Nutrition and Rest: all players must be well versed on proper nutrition, rest and recovery.- Psychological: Players need to be trained to keep their focus and attention. They need to be trained to

be open to suggestions, ideas and coaching. They need to be trained to be disciplined and carry themselves as champions.

Structure of the Training Session - Warm-up/Movement Prep: Ideally this involves movements and exercises with the ball (Coervers)

especially in the U11-U14 age groups. The U15-U18 players can have a more defined set of dynamic movements which are all functional based for the training session. FC Boulder has implemented standard movement prep for all its competitive teams. Contact Director of Strength and Conditioning, Injury Prevention for details.

- Physical: Exercises based on agility, speed, coordination and balance.- Technical: Unopposed technical exercises that develop quality with the ball. Simple to complex.- Tactical: Practice games based on understanding of the game. - Play: Games which have certain conditions.- Psychological: Each training session should have elements where players have to think and solve

soccer problems. THIS IS KEY! Players must be allowed to solve problems of the game on through guided discovery.

Coaching Components of the Training Session - Space: Keep the organization of the space simple. - Time: Let the practice flow and make your coaching points at appropriate stoppages.- Intensity: Generally, use short periods of time at high intensity and utilize rest periods to make your

coaching points. Build an intensity calendar into your seasonal plan and then break it down on a weekly basis.

- Rules: Use different rules/conditions to adapt the practices.- Number of players: Your practice should progress from smaller to large groups

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Focus of Training

The focus of our training is that everything in practice should resemble the actual game as much as possible. Exercises and drills serve a purpose; however, the majority of practice should be spent participating in activities, which resemble the game as closely as possible. If in doubt, ask yourself the following question: “Are we playing soccer”? There have to be the following requirements: teammates, an opponent, a field with boundaries, a direction, a purpose to the game and an objective. When playing the game in practice, give the players specific conditions to work on.

A game will have the best results when the following elements are present: Players are improving. Goals are scored. Attacking to create scoring opportunities. Defending to prevent goals and winning the ball.

The Basis for Good Practices

Always provide a fun and safe place for the players to enjoy the game. The players have to understand how the practices relate to the games. Create a positive environment for training. Create a competitive and challenging atmosphere in which positive encouragement and feedback are

present. Observe the players playing. Allow the game to be the main teacher. Training sessions should have a ‘flow’ to it. Focus should be on challenging the players technically in game situations involving problem solving. Repetition should be used to create performance habits. Training sessions should run at least 75 minutes for U11 and U12 players and at least 90 minutes for

the U13 through U18 players. Generally anything over 90 minutes should include both warm-up, cool-down and set pieces.

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Training Expectations in the Various Age Groups:

U11s and U12s

1. Technical- It is paramount that there is proper teaching and demonstration of technique.- Train all the technical aspects of the game: Dribbling, ball control, passing, receiving, dribbling, and

striking the ball.- Passing: short passes, long passes and flighted balls.- Receiving: on the ground, out of the air and using different body parts.- Dribbling (Coerver training) in tight spaces, with speed, change of direction and change of speed.- Striking the ball: on the ground and in the air.- 1 vs 1 to goal.- 1 vs 1 attacking.- 1 vs 1 defending.- Possession exercises: 3 vs 1, 4 vs 2, 5 vs 2.- Attacking 2 vs 1 and 3 vs 2 exercises to goal.- Introduction to heading.

2. Tactical- Attack vs defense. Understanding basic positions and roles.- Understanding roles of first, second and third defender.- Understanding roles of first and second attacker.- Learning to play as units (forwards, midfielders, defenders, right-sided players, left-sided players and

central players.- Understand the laws of the game.- Developing defensive awareness (Ball-side and goal-side).- Developing attacking awareness. Moving off he ball. Make the field big.

3. Physical- Coordination- Develop speed by focusing on quickness, agility and change of direction through fun unstructured

games.- Endurance through age specific and appropriate training.- Basic strength through body weight, medicine and stability balls.

4. Psychological- Our players should be able to listen and pay attention to brief instructions.- Our players should be able to understand simple suggestions and coaching points.

- Introduce players to basic nutrition principles.

Moving on:- A U12 player should be able to strike the ball high and low.- U U12 player should be able to receive and control the ball with their feet, thigh and chest.- A U12 player should be able to receive balls out of the air.- A U12 player should be able to dribble and run with the ball at speed.- A U12 player should be able to know what to do in a 1-vs-1 situation, both on defense as well as attack.- A U12 player should understand the concepts of the 3 vs 1, 4 vs 2 and 5 vs 2 possession games.- A U12 player should be comfortable with the basic Coerver exercises.- A U12 player should be able to take ownership of preparedness to play.

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U13s and U14s

1. Technical- Continue training the technical aspects of the game.- Continued Coerver training.- Possession games.- Attacking 1 vs 1 exercises.- Defending 1 vs 1 exercises.- Combination play.- Attack vs defense games.- Crosses.- Heading and volleys.

2. Tactical- Understanding re-starts. (Touch and play! Unless around the box).- Understanding team attack and team defense.- Understanding how to move off the ball.- Understanding positional play.- Building out of the back.- Developing field awareness.- Developing soccer smarts and vision.- Understanding team play through combinations.- Understanding of positional inter-change.

3. Physical- Continued coordination- Focus on overall body development: proper warm-up and cool down.- Age appropriate training for aerobic endurance, flexibility and speed.- Use of speed ladders and hurdles

4. Psychological- Our players should be able to listen to, understand and discuss brief tactical concepts.- Our players should be able to focus, keep their concentration and be engaged for longer periods of time.

- Heightened awareness of the role of nutrition in athletic development.

Moving on:- The U14 player should be able to pass and receive cleanly.- The U14 player should be able to dribble, change direction, change speed and show different moves

with confidence.- The U14 player should be comfortable in a variety of possession games.- The U14 player should be able to play one and two-touch soccer.- The U14 player should understand the principles of movement off the ball.- The U14 player should understand the concept of creating space for self and for a teammate.- The U14 player should be able to find the open player.

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U15s and U16s

1. Technical- Improve on technical deficiencies.- Continued training on 1 vs 1 attacking and defending techniques.- Technical training under game conditions.- Possession games with conditions to add pressure.- Midfield play.- Attack vs defense.- Wing play and crosses.- Defending as a group and as a team.- Playing in the various parts of the field.- Passing into the target.

2. Tactical- Being able to make tactical adjustments according to weather, field, opponents and game situations.- Team tactics in respect to defense and offense.- Understand the concepts of high pressure vs low pressure, man for man and zonal defending.- Creating numbers up situations.- Building out of the back.- Rhythm of play.

3. Physical- Soccer specific strength training.- Soccer specific speed and quickness training.- Soccer specific endurance training.- Soccer specific agility training.

4. Psychological- Our players should be able to think constructively about the game and add comments and thoughts

(half-time/post-game/etc.).- Our players should be able to keep their focus and concentration for extended periods of time.- Our players will play in a disciplined manner. - Our players have an understanding of the role of nutrition in athletic development.- Our players are introduced to imagery and visualization to prepare for training and games.

Moving on:

- The U16 player should be able to play one and two-touch soccer.- The U16 player should be confident in the 1 vs 1 situation both on defense as well as offense.- The U16 player should understand the concepts and purpose of possession games.- The U16 player should show tactical understanding of defensive and attacking concepts.- The U16 player should show a willingness to work individually on deficiencies.

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U17s and U18s

1. Technical- Fine tuning the technical elements of the game under game conditions.- Training should be with speed and under pressure.- Continued improvement in the 1 vs 1 situations.- Specific training for attackers, midfielders and defenders.- Specific possession exercises.- Functional training of Midfield play.- Functional training of Defensive play.- Functional training of play in the Final third play.- Functional training of Flank play.

2. Tactical- Being able to play from different formations.- Playing the result.- Building out of the back.- Creating a flow and rhythm of play.- Players need to be able to analyze their own play.- Players need to be able to deal with individual and group criticism.

3. Physical- Flexibility, nutrition, rest and recovery are emphasized.- Continued soccer specific endurance, speed, strength, agility and power training.- Players should strive to reach their peak performance level.

4. Psychological- Our players are able to keep their focus and concentration for a full game.- Our players are able to accept coaching, criticism, suggestions and ideas.- Our players are able to analyze their performance.- Our players are disciplined.- Our players make conscious decisions about preparing to be successful at the next level.- Our players are motivated to train on their own.- Our players understand that off-the-field habits have an impact on on-the-field performance.

Moving on:- The U18 player is prepared for the next level of play.- The U18 player continues their pursuit of soccer for life.- The U18 player continues to play at the highest level possible.

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Age Appropriate Keeper Training

• On average, a keeper has 4 minutes of total action in a game 82% off that action is with his/her feet and 18% of that action is shot stopping

4 areas of emphasis for successful goalkeeping

1. Technical

2. Tactical

3. Psychological

4. Physical

Years of age

• 5 8‐ year olds – learn the fundamentals

• 9 15‐ year olds – Technical & tactical proficiency

• 16 years & up – Train for perfection

Ages 6-9

• Basic positioning in the goal

• Basic footwork

• Set position shape

• Basic handling (catch a ball)

• Understand their role as the “first attacker” (distributing out of the back)

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Ages 9-12

• Emphasis on muscle memory (being able to replicate the same technique over and over)

• Skill development

• Dealing with high balls

• Dealing with the back pass

• Collapse dive/Parrying the ball wide

• 1 v 1 reaction save

Ages 12-16

• Advanced handling

• “Back to bar” – back peddling to make a save by pushing the ball over the bar

• Advanced positioning

• Advanced communication

Ages 17 & up

• Physical Strength and power

• Linking up with the team

• Final Play

• Game management

• Advanced distribution

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Systems of Play

There are numerous formations that a coach may choose from: 4-4-2, 4-3-3, 3-5-2, 3-4-3. Your decision as a coach regarding what system to play depends on the nature of your players (e.g, Do you have a strong target player? Do you have players who can provide great pace on the flanks? Do you have a dominating midfield player?) and the philosophy of play you are encouraging.

With that in mind, FC Boulder encourages its teams to play in the 1-4-3-3 formation.

Why a 1-4-3-3?- It allows for a good distribution of players on the field.- It allows for opportunities to create angles needed to form the triangles and diamonds,

which are crucial in ball possession.- The triangle in the midfield gives you an opportunity to win the midfield battle.- There is less running compared to a two-front system.- It is easier to create width.- It is an attacking style of play.- It allows for you to create ‘layers’ on the field.- It creates opportunities for the outside defenders to step up in the space and become a part

of the attack.- It creates opportunities for the wide forwards to go 1-on-1 with their respective defender.- It creates opportunities for attacking midfielders to get into the box.

What is important for the 1-4-3-3 to be effective?- For the 4-3-3 to be effective, you will need to be able to play in the opponent’s half. If you are

constantly under pressure and stuck in your own half, then you will need to make adjustments to the 4-3-3.

- You will need an intelligent holding midfielder. That player has to be the ‘coach’ on the field. This player creates the rhythm and flow of the game.

- Your wide forwards need to have some pace and need to be confident in the 1-on-1 duels.- Your center forward needs to be able to keep the ball and should be able to finish.- You will need technically sound midfielders who can move the ball quickly and precisely.- The triangle shape in the midfield is crucial.- When we have the ball, our wide players need to make the field as wide as possible.- Your center defenders should be confident in the 1-on-1 battles. They need to have strong

personalities.- Your outside defenders should be technically confident and want to go forward.- Players should be confident on the ball and be able to keep and ‘circulate’ the ball so that we

then can create ‘shape’ on the field.

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4-3-3 Formation

Goalkeeper

Central Defender Central Defender

Right Defender Left Defender

Holding Midfielder

Attacking Midfielder Attacking Midfielder

Right Forward Left Forward

Center Forward

**Important**

Understand that within this basic 4-3-3 formation there are numerous ways to organize your players.

4-2-3-1 4-1-2-3 4-2-1-3 4-5-1 3-4-3

It is important to know that we want to create layers of players on the field. We don’t want to look at our team when they are playing and see 4 defenders on one line, 3 midfielders on one line, 3 forwards on one line with a space between the lines. Again, we want to see layers and how you organize the layers on your team is your responsibility.

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Defensive Responsibilities in the 4-3-3:

GoalkeeperKeep the ball out of the net.

Coach and direct the players in front of you.Stay active and involved. Read and anticipate.

Have the ability to come off your line.

Central Defender Central DefenderFundamentally sound. Defend ball-side and goal-side.

Match up with the opposing target players.Strong in the 1 vs 1 duels. Communicate, direct and coach out of the back.

Provide cover for each other and outside defenders.

Right Defender Left DefenderFundamentally sound. Ball-side and goal-side defending. Understand defensive shape and

staying compact. When the opponents play with two forwards then these defenders are responsible for the opponent’s outside midfielders.

Weakside defender provides cover for the center defender on your side.

Holding MidfielderOrganize, direct and coach the midfield triangle.

Recognize when and have the ability to play man-for-man and zone.Strong in the air, win the 1 vs 1 battles and second balls.

Screen the target player and if needed, fill the gaps in the back line.

Attacking Midfielder Attacking MidfielderStay organized, connected and keep team shape. Don’t chase the ball. Stay balanced and keep your position. Communicate. Recognize when and have the ability to play man-for-

man and zone.

Right Forward Left ForwardPressure the ball and make play predictable. Force the play into the middle of the field

where we have good numbers. If needed, drop back into the space next to the midfielder and try to double up. Take away space and keep the field compact when the ball is on the

other side.

Center ForwardWork with your forwards to pressure the ball.

Take away the forward pass.Make play predictable.

Disrupt the other team’s build-up.

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Attacking responsibilities in the 4-3-3:

GoalkeeperStart the build-up with intelligent distribution.

Play on top of the penalty box and become part of the team’s possession play.Provide direction and coaching out of the back.

Central Defender Central DefenderCreate angles so that we always have an option to play the ball backwards.

This will allow us to switch the play from left to right and vice versa.Be aware of your defensive responsibilities and positioning as you attack in case of a turn-

over. Coach the players in front of you. Direct play.Look to attack the space in front of you.

Right Defender Left DefenderCreate width and look to attack the space in front of you. By switching the ball quickly from

one side to the other we are looking to create numbers up situations on the flanks.Work with the forward on your side either in support or by overlapping.

Holding MidfielderIdeally the playmaker and ‘coach’ on the field.

Hold the ‘pocket’ in the middle through intelligent positional play.Keep the ball in the team and create flow.

Organize the midfield triangle.

Attacking Midfielder Attacking MidfielderGood positional play. Don’t chase the ball.

Provide passing options for both the defender and the forward on your side.Look to make penetrating runs and passes in the spaces between the forwards.

Look to play off the center forward. Shoot from distance.

Right Forward Left ForwardCreate space by staying wide and deep. This will make room for the inside players to

combine. We want to create 1 vs 1 and numbers up situations on the outside. Be confident and aggressive when you are in a 1 vs 1 situation by taking your opponent on and playing

the ball in front of the goal. Look to play early crosses in behind the defense.Look to combine with the center forward and the midfielder and defender on your side.

Center ForwardTarget for the team.

Demand the ball on your feet.Create space for the midfielders with timed runs.

Score goals, create assists and be dangerous.Look to combine with wide forwards and center midfielders.

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The 4-4-2 Formation:

Goalkeeper

Center Defender Center Defender

Right Defender Left Defender

Center Midfielder Center Midfielder

Right Midfielder Left Midfielder

Forward Forward

**Important**

Understand that within this basic 4-4-2 formation there are numerous ways to organize your players.

You can organize your midfielders in a diamond shape tight together. You can designate a defensive center midfielder and an attacking center midfielder. You can play with a deep lying target and a forward that plays ‘underneath’ that

deep target. You can play with a Right forward and a Center forward and leave the left side open

for your defender and midfielders to make runs in. And vice versa. You can organize your back four with a stopper-sweeper set up.

It is important to know that we want to create layers of players on the field. We don’t want to look at our team when they are playing and see 4 defenders on one line, 4 midfielders on one line, 2 forwards on one line with a space between the lines. Again, we want to see layers and how you organize the layers on your team is your responsibility.

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Defensive Responsibilities in the 4-4-2 Formation:

GoalkeeperKeep the ball out of the net.

Coach and direct the players in front of you.Stay active and involved. Read and anticipate.

Have the ability to come off your line.

Central Defender Central Defender Fundamentally sound. Defend ball-side and goal-side.

Match up with the opposing target players.Strong in the 1 vs 1 duels. Communicate direct and coach out of the back.

Right Defender Left DefenderFundamentally sound. Ball-side and goal-side defending. Understand defensive shape and

staying compact. When the opponents play with two forwards then these defenders are responsible for the opponent’s outside midfielders.

Central Midfielder Central MidfielderPlay as a tandem. If one pressures, the other covers. Intelligent positioning and

communication.

Right Midfielder Left MidfielderFundamentally sound. Ball-side and goal-side defending. Understand when to stay compact and take away space and when to mark up tight. Communicate with the defender on your

side. Track opponents’ runs from midfield.

Forward ForwardMake play predictable for your team.

If possible, pressure opponents in the build-up.

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Attacking Responsibilities in the 4-4-2 Formation:

GoalkeeperIf possible, start the attack with intelligent distribution.

Become part of the team’s possession play.Coach and direct play out of the back.

Central Defender Central DefenderCreate angles so that we always have an option to play the ball backwards so that we can

switch play.Coach and direct the players in front of you.

Right Defender Left DefenderCreate width and look to work with the midfielder on your side in attacking the flanks.

By switching the ball quickly we are looking to create numbers up on the outsides.Become a part of the offense.

Central Midfielder Central MidfielderPlay off each other. If one goes forward, the other stays.

Look to fill the space behind the forwards.Create flow and rhythm of team with constant ball movement.

Right Midfielder Left MidfielderCreate width and depth. Outside midfielders need to get forward in attack to provide

crosses.

Forward ForwardPlay off each other. If one checks, the other stays. Become the target players for the team. Look to make penetrating runs behind the defense. Play and move in between the lines of

the opponents.

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The 3-5-2 Formation

Goalkeeper

Center Defender

Right Center Defender Left Center Defender

Center Midfielder

Attacking Midfielder Attacking Midfielder

Outside Midfielder Outside Midfielder

Forward Forward

**Important**

Understand that within this basic 3-5-2 formation there are numerous ways to organize your players.

Play with two holding midfielders (triangle pointing forwards). Play with one holding midfielder (triangle pointing backwards). Play with a deep target and a forward ‘underneath’. Drop your outside midfielders closer to your defenders. Play zonally in the back. Play man-for-man in the back.

It is important to know that we want to create layers of players on the field. We don’t want to look at our team when they are playing and see 3 defenders on one line, 5 midfielders on one line, 2 forwards on one line with a space between the lines. Again, we want to see layers and how you organize the layers on your team is your responsibility.

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Defensive Responsibilities in the 3-5-2 Formation:

GoalkeeperKeep the ball out of the net.

Coach and direct the players in front of you.Stay active and involved. Read and anticipate.

Have the ability to come off your line.

Center DefenderFundamentally sound. Defend ball-side and goal-side.

Strong in the 1 vs 1 duels. Good positional sense. Communicate, direct and coach out of the back.

Right Center Defender Left Center DefenderFundamentally sound. Defend ball-side and goal-side.

Match up with the opposing target players. Win aerial balls.Strong in the 1 vs 1 duels. Communicate direct and coach out of the back.

Holding MidfielderOrganize, direct and coach the midfield triangle.

Recognize when and have the ability to play man-for-man and zone.

Outside Midfielder Outside MidfielderFundamentally sound. Ball-side and goal-side defending. Understand when to stay compact and take away space and when to mark up tight. Communicate with the defender on your

side. Track runs and become a wing back.

Attacking Midfielder Attacking MidfielderStay organized and keep team shape. Don’t chase the ball. Stay balanced and keep your

position. Communicate. Recognize when and have the ability to play man-for-man and zone.

Forward ForwardMake play predictable for your team.

If possible, pressure opponents in the build-up.

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Attacking Responsibilities in the 3-5-2 Formation:

GoalkeeperIf possible, start the attack with intelligent distribution.

Become part of the team’s possession play.Coach and direct play out of the back.

Center DefenderCreate angles so that we always have an option to play the ball backwards so that we can

switch play.Coach and direct the players in front of you.

Right Center Defender Left Center DefenderCreate angles so that we always have an option to play the ball backwards so that we can

switch play. Play a bit more conservative than with four in the back.Coach and direct the players in front of you.

Holding MidfielderIdeally the playmaker and ‘coach’ on the field.

Support the ball/play. Hold the ‘pocket’ in the middle through intelligent positional play.Keep the ball in the team. Don’t turn the ball over and create flow.

Organize the midfield triangle.

Outside Midfielder Outside MidfielderCreate width and depth. Outside midfielders become attacking wing backs and need to get

forward in attack to provide crosses.

Attacking Midfielder Attacking MidfielderGood positional support play. Don’t chase the ball.

Provide passing options for both the defender and the forward on your side.Look to make penetrating runs in the spaces between the forwards.

Look to play off the center forward.

Forward ForwardPlay off each other. If one checks, the other stays. Become the target players for the team.

Look to make penetrating runs behind the defense.

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4-3-3 on Defense

General Considerations;- Best defense: we have the ball and we are playing in the opponent’s half.- Where to start your line of defense?- Are they faster? Low pressure and drop back. Are we faster? The press higher.- Where are they least dangerous? Force the ball to that side.- Who is there most dangerous player? Take away service to that player.

Examples of defensive shape (When playing against a 4-4-2) / Opponent’s Right Defender (white) has the ball:

- Our left forward takes away the pass to their outside mid. Force the pass into the middle.- Our left forward closes the space gets opponent’s head down. - Our center forward anticipates pass to center defender.- Our right forward pinches back and towards the middle of the field.- Our left defender reads the situation and if the ball gets to the opponent’s wide midfielder,

then he can get their on his first touch.- Our attacking midfielders are ball-side and goal-side of the opponent’s center midfielders.- Our holding midfielder sits in the space between our attacking midfielders and our center

defenders.- Our center defenders are ball-side and goal-side of the opponent’s forwards.- Our right defender pinches in towards the middle and is able to see the ball and see the

opponent’s wide midfielder whom we leave open.

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- Our keeper positions himself just outside the six-yard box.

Examples of defensive shape (When playing against a 4-4-2) / Opponent’s Right Center Defender (white) has the ball:

- Our center forward closes the space, gets opponent’s head down and makes play predictable.- Our center forward cannot let the ball get switched. Keep the ball in the area where it came

from.- Our outside forwards drops back a bit and takes away the pass to their outside mid. Force

the pass into the middle. - Our attacking midfielders are ball-side and goal-side of the opponent’s center midfielders.- Our holding midfielder sits in the space between our attacking midfielders and our center

defenders. If possible, our holding midfielder marks up and releases one of the attacking midfielders to press forward.

- Our center defenders are ball-side and goal-side of the opponent’s forwards.- Our outside defenders pinch in towards the middle and are able to see the ball and see the

opponent’s wide midfielders whom we leave open.- Our keeper positions himself just outside the six-yard box.

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Examples of defensive shape (When playing against a 4-4-2) / Opponent’s Left Outside Defender (white) has the ball:

- Our right forward takes away the pass to their outside mid. Force the pass into the middle.- Our right forward closes the space and gets opponent’s head down.- Our center forward anticipates the pass to the center defender.- Our left forward drops back a bit and towards the middle of the field. - Our attacking midfielders are ball-side and goal-side of the opponent’s center midfielders.- Our holding midfielder sits in the space between our attacking midfielders and center

defenders and screens the targets.- Our center defenders are ball-side and goal-side of the opponent’s forwards.- Our outside right defender reads the situation and if the ball gets to the opponent’s wide

midfielder, then he can get their on his first touch.- Our left defender pinches in towards the middle and is able to see the ball and see the

opponent’s wide midfielder who will be left open.- Our keeper positions himself just outside the six-yard box.

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Examples of defensive shape (When playing against a 4-4-2/Opponent’s Right Outside Midfielder (white) has the ball:

- Our Left Defender steps to the ball. Take away the pass forward.- The remainder of the back four organize behind the ball.- The remainder of the back four position ball side and goal side and slide strong side- I would like to see our Left Forward help back to double up on the ball.- Good shape and balance in the midfield.- Our right forward drops in and back into the midfield.

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Examples of defensive shape (When playing against a 4-4-2/Opponent’s Left Outside Midfielder (white) has the ball:

- Our right defender steps to the ball. Take away the pass forward.- The remainder of the back four organize behind the ball.- The remainder of the back four position ball side and goal side and slide strong side- I would like to see our right forward help back to double up on the ball.- Good shape and balance in the midfield.- Our left forward drops in and back into the midfield.- Our weakside defender pinches in and sees both ball and wide midfielder.

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1-4-3-3 playing against a 1-4-4-2

Tactical considerations:- Look for the advantage in the center of the midfield (3 vs 2)- Their outside midfielders will run right into our outside defenders.- Our outside forwards can create 1-on-1 situations.- Our outside defenders will have some time and space which will be helpful when we are

building out of the back and when we want to keep possession.- Our holding midfielder will have some time and space to distribute.- We still need to execute better than the other team.- When the ball is wide we want to funnel the ball into the middle.- Our outside defenders are responsible for the opponent’s outside midfielders.- Our outside defenders need to delay their wide opponent when arriving late.

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1-4-3-3 playing against a 1-3-4-3

Tactical considerations:- We do have a numerical advantage in the center of the field. (3 vs 2)- Our defense will not have the time and space to build up out of the back.- We will be 1-on-1 up top.- If you keep your forwards wide, you’ll stretch their defense.- Look to play a bit more direct than you’d normally play.- You want to play in their half so that our holding MF and our MF triangle can start

controlling the game.- Execute better than the other team…

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1-4-3-3 Playing against a 1-3-5-2

Tactical considerations:- Our outside defenders will have some time and space.- Their outside midfielders will run right into our outside defenders.- We are 1-on-1 up front against their defenders.- If you keep your forwards wide, you will stretch their defense.- Build on one side, then quickly attack the weak side. There will be space.- We will not have a numerical advantage in the center of the field, so we need to go wide.- Look for 2 vs 1 opportunities out wide.- Look to play a little bit more direct than you would normally.- Execute better than the other team.

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A 1-4-3-3 playing against a 1-4-3-3

Tactical considerations:- Do you need to adjust your midfield triangle? Point forward or point backward?- Players need to be able to create space individually. Go away, then check to. Check to, then go

away.- Players need to be able to create space for a teammate. E.g., the Right Forward moves

diagonally into the middle to create space wide for the Right Defender.- Look for ways to create a numbers up situation. Can a center defender slide into the

midfield?- Execute better than the other team.

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Reference Page

Here are some great resources to help you in your continued soccer coaching education:

www.ussoccer.comwww.nscaa.comwww.thefa.comwww.uefa.comwww.soccercoachinginternational.comwww.worldclasscoaching.comwww.socceranywhere.comwww.coyouthsoccer.orgwww.soccerspecific.comwww.thecoachingmanual.comwww.mayouthsoccer.orgwww.usyouthsoccer.orgwww.footytube.comwww.the18.com

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I have read the FC Boulder Guide to Competitive Coaching.

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Signature: _____________________________________________________________________________

Date: ___________________________________________________________________________________

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