Academy Curriculum

2. Tactical Topics

Attacking principles/concepts:

- pushing players forward in a 4-4-2

- Attacking in a 4-3-3 system

- free kick and corner kick plays

- making smart runs & staying onside

- keeping possession w/ a purpose

- counter attacking

- direct / route 1 soccer

- changing the pace at the right time

Defending principles/concepts:

- 2v2:  zonal defending principles

- 4 v 4: pressure, cover, balance

- playing an effective flat back 4

- pressing an opponents in midfield

- defending in a 4-5-1 and having fun

- 2 v 3: how to slow down attackers

- 8 v 8: defending as a unit

- defending free kicks & corner kicks

1. Technical Topics

First Touch:

- juggling (creating a comfort zone)

- checking to & receiving balls

- checking to the ball (under pressure)

- turning w/ the ball (under pressure)

- passing (foot, thigh, chest, head)

- shooting (direct, ground, volley)

- crossing (endline & early service)

Dribbling:

- right and left foot

- 3v3 dribble fest (jersey ball)

- beating an opponent

- breakaways

Passing:

- right and left foot

- inside and outside of foot

- chipping and trick passes

- instep drives with either foot

Tackling:

- using your body to get advantagext.

U14 - U18 age groups

Older players must train under pressure in order to play faster

A good first touch is a must if you want to play in college

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