U12 Coach Best Practices
Resources
-> Coaching Manual
It is highly recommended that each coach use the new AYSO coaching manual designed for their division. If you don't have a copy, reach out to the Coach Administrator to get one.
-> "Hey Coach" AYSO e-Newsletter
Sign up for this newsletter in your eAYSO account.
Player techniques
- Dribbling | Both Feet
- Throw-ins | Both feet on the ground, behind the line, two hands behind the head
- In-Step Kick | Laces Kick
- Push Pass | Inside of the foot, on the ground
- Receiving Pass | Inside of the foot, control
- Receiving Long Ball | Top of the thigh, control
- Juggling | Basic
- Defense | Block Tackle
- Goalkeeping | Intermediate
- Heading | Safe basic technique
If the players on your team are not comfortable or confident using these techniques, do not introduce new skills or tactics. Repetition and retention of basic skills lay the foundation for growth and confidence as players progress to the next level
Weekly Plan
Do NOT wing it, be prepared, and make sure kids have fun!
Start each practice with a simple warm-up (Kids love a game of tag once in a while)
- Work on a technique with no opposing pressure.
- Use some fun training games that emphasize the new technique.
- End with a scrimmage or small sided game with limited to no coaching.If you feel the need to freeze play to make an important coaching point, keep it to 1 or 2.
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Relax and let the kids play
- If they were trained well, they don’t need more coaching while they play.
- Mistakes are part of the game and the best way for young athletes to learn.
- Save coaching comments for halftime and after the game.
- Win or lose, always be positive.
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Cover all basic techniques
- If you taught dribbling in the first practice and passing in the second, make sure you come back to dribbling and passing with slightly more advanced skills in later practices.
- Dedicate one practice each season to defensive techniques.
- Don’t try to do too much.Repetition throughout the season is key for success.
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