Anatomy of a Training Session
We've discussed what the focus of a training session should be. Now let's break down the parts that should exist in every session.
Technical Warm Up
Will consist of high repetitions of the skill that we will work on that day.
Done in an unrestricted space.
Can be done on a player's own or with a partner.
Should include Dynamic Stretching techniques and slowly build in intensity.
Start with the players having control and slowly introduce restrictions and control.
The emphasis should be entirely technical.
Small-sided Activity
Put players into numbers, ie : 1v1, 2v3, 6v4 depending on what skill you are working on that session.
Coach will manipulate the environment. As a coach, you can adjust the size, space, and number of players.
The Coach will control this part of the session. Coaching points should be introduced and reinforced. This can be done through demonstration, guided discovery, or player correction. Focus on the COACHING POINTS!
Must create success and failure. Let the players figure it out.
Game is most often NON-DIRECTIONAL.
Coach may begin introducing the tactical application of the the technical points.
Expanded Small-sided/Directional Activity
Move towards simulating a game like experience.
Focus on the application of skills learned in the technical warm-up and the small sided activity.
It should be directional; ie: towards a goal or attacking vs defending.
The tactical application of technical coaching points should be emphasized with technical reminders given.
Game
A training session should always finish with a game. Should come close as possible to replicating game like conditions.
ALWAYS directional.
Should have keepers.
Hold the players accountable for their decisions on the field.
Demand technical precision.
Bonus : Finishing
My instructors for my "E" course suggested that you may add a fifth component to your training session.
Consists of a cool down period of light exercise.
Static stretching, ie: hold stretch for a 10 count.
Helps the player recover from the training session.
Those are the five parts to a soccer training session. Following this framework will help ensure you have a consistently successful practice that should emphasize your Coaching Points.