TURNING PRACTICE FOR JUNIOR PLAYERS
Aim to develop a player's ability to turn with the ball and keep the ball under close control all the time.
Diagram 1
Organisation
4 players with a ball each A, B, C & D, all standing at the corners of an area 10 metres square.
Each player starts with a ball behind a cone s as in diagram 1, with one other cone in the centre.
Practice
Each player, in turn, dribbles the ball round his own cone then moves quickly to the centre cone, which he then circles (as in diagram 1 with A starting) before sprinting with his ball back to his place.
Once A has reached the start of his turn around the centre cone then B begins a similar route from his own corner ensuring good control all the time, this goes on through C and D.
To progress
As soon as A reaches the centre B sets off, as A will return (not to his own corner) but to B's corner, B will move up to C, and so on.
Coaches should ensure use of the inside and outside of the feet, ball under close control, and that players develop good technique before speeding up the exercise.
Diagram 2
Organisation
6 players, 2 teams, A's & B's each player with a ball in possession, working in an area 12 metres square as in diagram 2.
Aim
Is for both teams to be the last in possession of a ball within the square.
So each player has to attempt to not only keep control of his own ball but also to try and kick one of the oppositions ball out of the area. So any ball that goes outside the square is considered out.
To get back into the game any player must chase his ball, collect it, and take it around 2 cones positioned 25 metres away and then sprint with his ball back to the square where hopefully his 2 other teammates will still be in possession.
Key points
Players should be encouraged to use their bodies to shield the ball from opponents.
Work at turns away from opponents.
Always look around to find available space.
To progress
Retain 6 players in the square, no teams, 5 footballs - one player without a ball, and he has to try and clear all five balls out of the area. Each player is turn can have a go at the ball chasing - and coaches can time each one to introduce competition and encourage the defender.
