Set up an area as shown with the coach (sleeping giant) in one end surounded by cones (gold coins). The players are at the other end and they have 1 ball each.
While the sleeping giant is asleep the players can move towards him/her, as soon as the sleeping giant awakes they have to stop and be still, if they are caught moving the sleeping giant can chase them back to the start.
If players get to the sleeping giant they pick up a gold coin and run back to the starting area to store it.
Emphasis on close control and ensure players keep their head up while dribbling and moving with the ball.
Highlight the importance of awarness so they do not get caught moving as the giant awakes.
Can they show good changes of pace (taking bigger touches instead of close control) when they need to get away from the giant.
in more ways than one
in more ways than one
Under FutureFit, your Under-9s stay at 5v5, your Under-11s stay at 7v7 and your Under-13s stay at 9v9. Same pitch, same numbers, one more year. Here is how to make sure that year feels like a step forward rather than a repeat.
Most 1v1s are lost in the first second, when the defender rushes in and dives. Teach your players to slow the attacker down, take away the dangerous option and pick the right moment, and they will win far more of them.
The FA's FutureFit framework lands this season, bringing a 3v3 entry format at Under-7s. Here is what actually changes on a Saturday morning, and how to coach it well.