Did you ever find the time to reflect upon the count of benefits that Soccer practice games have to offer to 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 system of a 4v4 small-sided game in soccer training is usually small and it is useful for the coach and the players as well. The coach is in a position to observe all players on one side since they are only 4 in count. There is a lot of time available to the players for the purpose of playing with the game. 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.
It’s the coach who is required to be present at the playing ground and promote the kids to make use of the process. Initially the kids may not get adapted to it quickly. For instance, they may prefer to use the kick and run style. It’s just fine. Nevertheless, you’ll be required to train them on various methods that can be used in the process of distribution.
If required, make use of diagram to teach the process to the players to begin with. Subsequently demonstrate it too for the kids. 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.
As a result of it, the team’s game gets a sort of constitution. This will also eventually lead to players developing a lot of skills on their own and be able to control the pace of the game. You must bear in mind that the process of distribution is only for the players who are slightly advanced in their training.
The beginners should not be introduced to this in soccer practice games. Their soccer drills should enable them solely to play soccer and not bother about rules and regulations. Their only attention should be on playing and not working on the technique.
When you teach the players the process of distribution, it is vital that they know how to maintain balance with the ball. The player who has the ball must keep looking up and also take a decision on where to pass the ball.
The coach must teach the players to develop space around the player with the ball so that he gets adequate room and shield to pass the ball. A 4v4 game is ideal to teach such tactics.
Also, the coach must teach his players about various positions such as forward, defender, right flank, left flank. The players should know and understand these positions and the coach must call these positions by name during the training.
You must exercise patience with the kids when they are learning these exercises. The kids may be slow in learning these things.
So use these soccer practice games to help your kids learn the fine points of soccer. For more tips and tricks on a 4v4 game, be a part of our youth soccer coaching community that has several 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


