This session plan focuses on developing possession skills through a series of small-sided games. The warm up game works on maintaining possession while under pressure from defenders. In the main activity, players are split into groups of 3 or 6 and must complete a set number of passes before the lone defender can win the ball. Progression is made by adding an additional grid for defenders to pass the ball into. The closing game has multiple groups rotating between grids and defending each other to develop the ability to maintain shape and quickly reorganize possession under pressure.

1. Interactive Session Plan ™
Coach Ricky Master Coach Session date 3 Jul 2012 Team/Age U10s
Category Creating a Blue Print for Possession
Time available
Session Theme Possession - Part #1
1:30 hours
NOTES
Theme: Warm Up - Possession (Smash & Grab)
Game Conditions:
Two defenders work together trying to kick the balls out of the grid (everyone has a turn to
defend). When a ball is kicked out, the player that lost possession of their ball joins the rest of the
Click to insert session diagram players. They now have to support the group, offering passing options and seams (they don't
chase after their ball, once it's kicked out).
Key Coaching Points:
Emphasize on quality of pass (use all surfaces of the foot).
Emphasize on good decision-making, draw defenders in (make them run more).
Player movement, supporting the pass with an open body.
Theme: Possession 3v1
Brief Game Outline: Working in groups the each defender works until they force a mistake or win
the ball.
Game Conditions:
Click to insert session diagram Each group has 3 players playing against 1 defender.
The grid is 10×10 yards.
Key Coaching Points:
Quality and timing of pass.
Player movement and support play – ALWAYS have two short supporting passes.
Encourage communication in order to unbalance defensive decision-making.
Theme: Possession 3v1 - Progression
Brief Game Outline: Working on groups of six, the grid is now split into two groups.
Game Conditions:
Once the defender wins the ball, they pass into the opposite grid and join their teammates.
Click to insert session diagram Work using two grids, both grids should be 10×10 yards.
Key Coaching Points:
Quality and timing of pass.
Player movement and support play – ALWAYS have two short supporting passes.
Ability to re-group and establish good balance and shape.
Theme: Game
Brief Game Outline: Set-up a series of grids 101×10 yards. Each group must organize themselves
so they all have a number 1.2.3.4 When the coach calls a number out, they rotate and defend
against another group. The group that keeps the ball the longest wins 5 points.
Click to insert session diagram Key Coaching Points:
Quality and timing of pass.
Player movement and support play – ALWAYS have two short supporting passes.
Ability to re-group and establish good balance and shape.
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