Just like a timetable is made for a specified time, drawing a soccer field diagram to train the kids on various positions and soccer formations helps in it’s smooth functioning. When your kids are young, somewhere between 4 to 6 years of age, what works best is to have them play in small sided soccer like a 3 v 3 or a 4 v 4 not including the goalies.
Then move to a 5 v 5 including a goalkeeper as the kids mature. There are countless benefits. They enjoy the game much more; get maximum contacts with the ball, and are able to learn the models of the game in a better way.
This is a tender age when the kids are almost learning to pass and control the ball. You can start training them on positions and formations also. This is the time when players should be identified as forwards or defenders. Also, it’s for you to see that they arrive at their positions to the greatest extent.
With time, the number of players will someday increase with the size of the soccer field. At that time, creating formations will be a bit problematic. Nevertheless, make it a point that players are allocated positions and also they show full integrity in acting upon from their positions.
You should have dialogue with the players after you’ve decided the formations. Explain to the players why one player is preferred for a specific position in comparison to another and also the theory that follows it. This is where the soccer field diagram helps the most. It’s easy for kids to learn by looking at the diagrammatic version. And then there are some who learn on the field by seeing you perform drills or even reading the documented text.
There are some general guidelines or soccer tactics that must be followed with every position; such as responsibilities of defenders, midfielders, and forwards. These descriptions are apt for a 2-2-2 formation in a 7 v 7 game. These commands are generic in nature but you can change them to suit your team.
As an example, you may decide on 3 midfielders instead of 2. You may use your center midfielder to attack furiously on offence or require that he marks the opponent midfielders on defense. You may want your wing defenders to take all throw-ins. There can be many alterations.
In addition to the diagram, it is always a good idea to document your thought process in writing. This gives the players a chance to read through your plan and instructions in writing and they understand it better that way. The parents can also go through these and appreciate your objectives and plans for the team and players.
To teach soccer positions, apply extensive use of field diagrams irrespective of what you’ve selected to in addition. It’s probably the best tool that helps save a lot of time and energy in the event of explaining the formations.
What are you thinking about then? Move ahead and make the most of a soccer field diagram to teach your kids several formations and positions on field. You’ll find a wealth of information on our youth soccer coaching community. Join today to take advantage of all the relevant information.
Andre Botelho is known online as “The Expert Youth Soccer Coach” and his free ebooks and reports have been downloaded more than 100,000 times. Learn how to skyrocket your players’ skills and make practice sessions fun in record time. Download your free ebook at: Soccer Coaching.