Have you ever imagined the kind of advantages Soccer practice games give the players? It’s not just the chance to make contact with the ball many more times but also the open space that they get to experiment with their playing skills.

The arrangement of a 4v4 small-sided game in soccer training is not very big but works best for both the players as well as the coach. It’s easy for the coach to keep an eye on all the players as they are just 4 in number. The players get to play with the ball for a maximum time. At the same time, it’s possible for the players to practice the distribution process, collecting the ball, making fast and correct decision, and looking up.

The onus lies on the coach to be available on the playing field and cheer the kids to make use of this method. At first it may be a little difficult for the kids to get used to it. For example, they may still adopt the kick and run style. This is normal. However, you will need to teach them the various ways they can employ the process of distribution.

If need be, use a diagram to teach them the process first. Next a demonstration of the same is also required. Be a little persistent and the kids will find it easy to accept and follow it. And when they do start using the process, they will use the space more judiciously when in possession of the ball.

Soccer practice games

As a result of it, the team’s game gets a sort of constitution. This also ultimately leads to the players being able to work on their skills as well as control the rate at which the game progresses. You must be careful with it because this process of distribution is only for the advanced players.

The kids who have just started playing soccer should not get involved in soccer practice games. Their soccer drills should enable them solely to play soccer and not bother about rules and regulations. They should not be bothered about techniques but just enjoy the game.

When you teach the players the process of distribution, it is vital that they know how to maintain balance with the ball. The player with the ball must keep the possession of the ball and also keep looking up to pass the ball correctly.

Instruct the players on how to create space around the player with the ball so that he has protection and space to move the ball. A 4v4 game is best suited to teach such things.

Also, the coach must teach his players about various positions such as forward, defender, right flank, left flank. The kids should identify with these positions and the best way to practice it is that the coach refers to them by name during the sessions.

You must be patient while the kids try to get used to these soccer exercises. It may take them some time in absorbing these things.
So move forward and use these soccer practice games to help the kids inculcate new skills. To gain more information on a 4v4 game, enroll for our youth soccer coaching community that has several useful resources on youth soccer.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Andre Botelho is the author of "The Expert Youth Soccer Coaching Guide" and he's a recognized expert in the subject of youth soccer coaching. Learn how to explode your players' skills and make training fun in less than 29 days! Download your free pdf guide at: Soccer practice games