THESE SKILLS SHOULD BE DEVELOPED FOR U6 AGE GROUP:

• teach how to dribble the ball - teach them which way to go
• teach how to stop the ball (bottom, inside and outside of the foot)
• teach how to pass with inside and outside of foot
• introduce how to shoot the ball
• continue teaching how to run, jump, hop and skip (motor development)

• A coach from each team will be on the field directing (coaching) the players

• We can continue using the side walls of the outdoor arena as 3 of our sides, with pylons marking the 4th side. If the ball goes past the pylons, a coach will have the team who did not kick the ball out, kick it back in (kick-in). Opposing team should move about 5 m back. (If you wish to try using a field where the ball can go out of bounds on all 4 sides, the dimensions of the field recommended at the coach’s clinic were about 30 yards by 20 yards. These may have to be adapted to fit inside the arena. These will not be lined out for you – you would have to measure and mark them yourself)

• If the ball comes to a standstill by the boards, coach just moves it out a few feet and keeps them going

• Allow for 15-20 minute halves with a break in between (10 minutes) for a snack

• Due to the small team sizes, teams can generally be split into 2 shifts (usually based on age of players – assertiveness or being timid may come into play as well – coaches use their discretion). Discuss with other coach before the game to decide format

• Keep the shifts short – no more than 2 – 3 minutes per shift

• No scorekeeping

• Parents provide lots of encouragement

• Although we strongly encourage independent play at this age group, there may, however, be the opportunity for a parent to assist a timid player

• Let the kids play –“let the game be the teacher”. Each player will develop at their own pace