U9 and U10 Development Goals

Technique: 

• Ability to pass with accuracy and weight using the inside and outside of the foot (emphasis on quality push pass) 

• Ability to execute instep drive 

• Ability to receive ground balls with the instep and outside of the foot (body behind the ball) 

• Ability to receive bouncing balls with the instep (cushion) and the sole, inside and outside of the foot (wedge)

• Ability to complete fakes in dribbling (A fake is done with the feet. The goal of a fake is to get the opponent off balance (wrong footed) or going in the direction opposite of where the player in possession of the ball really plans to go.) 

• Ability to turn with the ball

• For goalkeepers: ready stance, getting the feet set, how to hold a ball after a save, diamond grip, catching shots at the keeper, punting, recovery from down to the ground and up to set position, and footwork exercises. Also, introduce goal kicks and throwing.

Psychology:

• Awareness of how to win or lose gracefully, fair play, parental involvement, how to play, communication, and emotional management. 

• Increase player responsibility. 

Fitness:

• Endurance 
• Range of motion/flexibility 
• Rhythm exercises and running mechanics. 
• Any fitness activities should be done with the ball.
• Introduce body resistance exercises and the idea of cool down. 

Tactics:

• 1v1 defending – does player know when to defend (quick transition upon losing possession) 
• 1v1 defending – does player know how to defend 1v1 
• Role of 1st attacker and defender, 2v1 attacking
• Concept of "get goal-side"
• Concept of maintaining small group shape in pairs and threes (emphasize support on both attack and defense)
• Participating/engaged (purposeful action) both on the ball and when supporting a teammate with the ball 
• Understanding basic principles of attacking Understand of basic principles of set plays

U9 and U10 Sample Practice Plans

Click on the links below to download weekly sample practice plans.