Youth
3.“ NEW BALL” RESTARTS
Coach( es) keep a ball supply with them on the field; can utilize other parents or younger siblings to help collect extra balls to keep the coaches supplied
Ball out- > immediately ROLL a‘ new ball’ in
Possession to the other team( teach the rules while maintaining FLOW)
Why it matters:- Eliminates downtime- Keeps attention( critical at this age)
- Makes it inclusive( roll it to a player who hasn’ t been involved for some time)
Key Idea: New ball restarts significantly increase dribbling, receiving, and overall involvement.“ STOP( the play), DROP( the opponent), and ROLL( the ball)”
4. MINI-GAMES
2v2- > 2x2 minute‘ rounds’ 3v3- > 2x3 minute‘ rounds’
Rotate players often; keep games more balanced
Up to 6 mini-games per session( per 60 minutes)
Why it matters:
- Matches attention span & physical development for this stage
- Maximizes involvement + repetition = fun
- Gives multiple“ fresh starts”
Key Idea: Short games = more chances to try, fail, and try again.
2026 PRE-SEASON SOCCER JOURNAL | 33