Tactics Lesson Plans
Although individual technique and touches on the ball are the primary focus of our U12 practice sessions, we will also spend time this year introducing our players to several formations and tactics concepts. We will introduce tactics through "chalk talks" during practices and implementation and experimenting during games.
As part of developing our players understanding of tactics we will seek to develop a style of play that includes a strong possession game, an aggressive but patient attack, and a highly organized back field. We want to play beautiful soccer. Our team will play primarily 4-4-2, 4-3-3, and 5-3-2 formations during the 2004-05 season. We will look at variations of one or more of these formations during the year (e.g., stopper-sweeper vs. flat back systems of play). Over time, we will discuss which formations worked or failed us and why. Players will come to understand more specifically their responsibilities as well as their team mates' responsibilities. They will begin understand not only the power of zonal play, but the importance of communication in making zonal play work.
Click on the links below for some of the material that we are covering this year.
Lesson 1: Introduction to Zones and Responsibilities in the 4-4-2
Lesson 2: Communication and Definitions 1
Lesson 3: Introduction to Defesive Positions in the 5-3-2
Lesson 4: Corner Kick Positions 1
Lesson 5: Numbers in the "Wall" During Free Kicks
Lesson 6: Corner Kick Positions 2 (w/Target or "Flick On" Player)