Youth football players are typically less self-centred and more able to deciffer
information that is relevant to them and act upon it. Therefore, your football coaching can become
more detailed and progressive as players start to understand the concepts of space,
width and depth.
Youth football players are also able to justify their
actions - for example, the football coach might ask “why did you shoot then?”, and
the youth football player could give a reasoned explanation. Use the ability of
the player to be constructive in their replies to help them reach and consider other
options and learn from mistakes.
Player characteristics include:
Learning - encourage players to solve problems by reviewing
their own performances and welcoming questions, answers and comments. They should
have sound knowledge of the fundamentals and be able to constructively contribute
to the football session with their feedback. Continue to offer your expertise and
knowledge but also let the game become the teacher.
Technical - As players progress to 11-a-side football,
some will thrive in this new football formation whilst others may find it difficult
to adapt. As a youth football coach should be aware of this and encourage players
to work in units within the team and focus on football training drills that recreate
realistic game situations. By now players should be aware of the roles and responsibilities
of all positions on the pitch, especially their own.
Social - Young people (U11, U12, U13, U14) who are good at sport are more socially
accepted by their peers, no more so than in football. Players who are good at football
will find themselves developing a greater social circle of friends. Players for
under 11, under 12, under 13 and under 14 football teams
can be shaped by peer pressure and role models off the pitch. Use this to your advantage.
Install values and beliefs in to your youth football team and always encourage fair
play.
Physical development - as players start to mature physically,
the make-up of your football training sessions should respond to changes
in aerobic development and muscle strength.
For football
drills for u11, u12, u13 and U14 football teams, click
here.
