In-House U5 Training Guide

Arrival Activity: Free Dribble

• Setup: 15x15 grid. Each child with a ball.
• Execution: Let kids dribble freely, no pressure.
• Coaching Points: Encourage gentle touches, use of feet.

Warm-Up Game: Red Light, Green Light

• Setup: 15x20 space. Coach on one end, kids on the other with balls.
• Execution: Green light = dribble, Red light = stop.
• Coaching Points: Stop ball with sole, keep ball close when moving.

Skill Game: Ball Freeze Dance

• Setup: 15x15 grid. Music speaker optional.
• Execution: Players dribble to music, freeze on cue.
• Coaching Points: Head up, soft touches, quick stop.

Coordination Game: Animal Walks

• Setup: Cones for lanes.
• Execution: Move like animals (bear crawl, frog jump, etc.) for fun.
• Coaching Points: Body movement, balance, fun over form.

Game: 2v2 Free Play (No Goals)

• Let kids dribble and kick in small groups.

Arrival Activity: Obstacle Dribble

• Setup: Create a zigzag path using cones (4-5 yards apart) across a 15x15 area.
• Execution: Players dribble their ball through the course, winding between cones.
• Coaching Points:
• Keep the ball close
• Use inside/outside of both feet
• Don’t worry about speed — focus on control

Warm-Up Game: Traffic Jam

• Setup: 15x15 grid with 1 ball per player.
• Execution: Players pretend to be cars, honk (say “beep beep”) when getting close to others, and avoid “crashing.”
• Coaching Points:
• Keep head up to avoid other players
• Encourage turning away from traffic
• Gentle touches to keep control

Skill Game: Balloon Pop

• Setup: Scatter ~10 tall cones throughout grid.
• Execution: Players dribble and “pop” balloons by knocking over cones with the ball.
• Coaching Points:
• Accurate dribbling to aim at cones
• Use soft touches, not big kicks
• Celebrate each "pop"

Coordination Game: Follow the Leader

• Setup: Coach leads line of players with or without balls.
• Execution: Perform movements (walking, skipping, jumping, dribbling, spinning).
• Coaching Points:
• Encourage attention and copying
• Exaggerate movements for clarity
• Make it silly and fun

Game: 3v3 with Small Goals

• Setup: 15x20 field with two small goals (pugg or cones).
• Execution: Let players play freely in teams.
• Coaching Points:
• Encourage ball movement and effort
• Let them try scoring
• Use minimal instruction — let them explore

Arrival Activity: Free Play with Ball

• Setup: 15x15 grid, 1 ball per player.
• Execution: Let players explore dribbling.
• Coaching Points:
• Encourage movement
• Ask players to show you how fast/slow they can go with the ball

Warm-Up Game: Hungry Hippos

• Setup: Place 20 cones (or beanbags) in the center circle or middle of the grid.
• Execution: Players dribble to the middle, pick up a “food” item, dribble it back to their goal.
• Coaching Points:
• Control the ball before picking up item
• Eyes up to avoid others
• Quick starts and stops

Skill Game: Pirate Treasure Hunt

• Setup: Place “treasure” (cones or beanbags) around the grid. Each player has a base (small cone circle).
• Execution: Players dribble to find treasure and bring it to their base.
• Coaching Points:
• Keep ball close while moving
• Quick changes of direction
• Reinforce safe turns and control

Coordination Game: Jump the River

• Setup: Use cones or rope lines to make 3-4 “rivers” spaced across field.
• Execution: Players run and jump over rivers (without ball).
• Coaching Points:
• Bend knees and swing arms to jump
• Emphasize balance and landing softly
• Build confidence, not competition

Game: 2v2 or 3v3 Free Play

• Same as above, encourage fun and dribbling.

Arrival Activity: Cone Maze

• Setup: Set cones randomly in a grid.
• Execution: Players weave through any cones they choose, dribbling creatively.
• Coaching Points:
• Encourage trying different directions
• Stop and start with the sole
• Try both feet

Warm-Up: Freeze Tag (with Ball)

• Setup: 15x15 grid. 1-2 “it” players (without ball).
• Execution: “It” tags others by touching shoulder. Frozen players hold ball overhead until unfrozen by teammate.
• Coaching Points:
• Keep moving with the ball
• Avoid the “it” player
• Recognize when to speed up or slow down

Skill Game: Shark Attack

• Setup: Grid is “ocean.” Coach is shark; players dribble in the grid.
• Execution: Shark tries to “eat” the ball by tapping it out. Players rejoin after a task (e.g., toe touches).
• Coaching Points:
• Dribble away from pressure
• Use quick turns and stops
• Encourage smiling and bravery

Coordination Game: Obstacle Race (no ball)

• Setup: Simple obstacle path (cones to weave, line to jump, object to crawl under).
• Execution: Players take turns completing the course.
• Coaching Points:
• Encourage movement variety
• Promote balance and body control
• Cheer everyone on!

Game: 3v3 with Goals

• Keep it light, positive, and cheer every attempt.

Arrival Activity: Free Dribble

• Setup: 15x15 grid, each player with a ball.
• Execution: Players dribble freely, practicing stopping the ball with their foot.
• Coaching Points:
• Use the bottom (sole) of the foot to stop
• Try to stop the ball quickly after moving
• Soft touches, then stop

Warm-Up Game: Red Light, Green Light Remix

• Setup: 15x20 grid. Coach stands opposite players.
• Execution: “Green Light” = dribble fast, “Yellow Light” = slow, “Red Light” = stop.
• Coaching Points:
• Listen and react quickly
• Keep the ball close
• Use the sole to stop

Skill Game: Musical Balls

• Setup: One ball per player, place them randomly in the grid.
• Execution: Start music or clap rhythm. When it stops, players must find and stop a ball (some players will not get one).
• Coaching Points:
• Quick reaction
• Stop ball with control
• Be kind – take turns and encourage others

Coordination Game: Traffic Cones

• Setup: Cones in zigzag or random path.
• Execution: Without a ball, players weave through, hop over, or spin around cones.
• Coaching Points:
• Improve body awareness
• Keep balance and eyes up
• Move confidently

Game: 3v3 Small-Sided

• Keep teams small and cheer for effort, dribbling, and trying to stop the ball.

Arrival Activity: Cone Knockdown

• Setup: Scatter cones. 1 ball per player.
• Execution: Players dribble and knock over as many cones as they can.
• Coaching Points:
• Use both feet
• Kick softly and aim
• Celebrate successful “knockdowns”

Warm-Up: Simon Says

• Setup: Coach faces players.
• Execution: Give commands like “touch your ball,” “dribble,” “stop,” “jump.” Only do it if “Simon says.”
• Coaching Points:
• Focus and listening
• React to instructions
• Have fun with silly ones (Simon says bark like a dog!)

Skill Game: Toe Tap Challenge

• Setup: Each player has a ball.
• Execution: Players do toe taps (alternate feet on top of ball) — count how many they can do in 10 seconds.
• Coaching Points:
• Light taps
• Use both feet
• Eyes up when ready

Coordination Game: Cone Pick-Up Relay

• Setup: Scatter cones, 2 bases.
• Execution: Run out, collect one cone, bring it back. No ball involved.
• Coaching Points:
• Fast starts and turns
• Encourage cheering
• Clean handoffs to teammates

Game: Numbers Game

• Setup: Number each player.
• Execution: Call a number — that player from each team runs on to play 1v1.
• Coaching Points:
• Encourage dribbling and scoring
• Quick reactions
• Use both feet

Arrival Activity: Dribble and Stop

• Setup: Grid, each player with ball.
• Execution: Dribble 5 steps, stop ball, repeat.
• Coaching Points:
• Use sole to stop
• Gentle, short dribbles
• Show off stops

Warm-Up: Partner Tag

• Setup: Players in pairs.
• Execution: Without a ball, one chases the other for 30 seconds, then switch.
• Coaching Points:
• Fun and movement
• Quick change of direction
• Eyes on partner

Skill Game: Pass Through the Gate

• Setup: Pairs of players. Set cones 2 yards apart to make gates.
• Execution: Players try to pass through the gate to each other.
• Coaching Points:
• Use inside of foot
• Step next to the ball
• Keep ball on the ground

Coordination Game: Balance Beam (Line Walk)

• Setup: Use flat cones or rope lines.
• Execution: Players walk slowly forward/backward along the line.
• Coaching Points:
• Arms out for balance
• Look forward
• Small steps

Game: 3v3 with Emphasis on Passing

• Encourage calling for ball and simple passes to teammates.

Arrival Activity: Partner Dribble & Pass

• Setup: Players in pairs with one ball.
• Execution: Take turns dribbling and passing short distances.
• Coaching Points:
• Stay close
• Accurate short passes
• Encourage talking

Warm-Up: Clap & Pass

• Setup: Pair work. One passes, the other claps before receiving.
• Execution: Adds focus and timing to passing.
• Coaching Points:
• Listen and time clap
• Step into pass
• Inside foot accuracy

Skill Game: Cone Target Pass

• Setup: Small cones spaced ~3 yards from players.
• Execution: Try to pass and knock over cone.
• Coaching Points:
• Aiming
• Power control
• Use both feet over time

Coordination Game: Beanbag Toss

• Setup: Use cones or hoops as goals.
• Execution: Toss beanbags underhand into targets.
• Coaching Points:
• Aim and follow through
• Hand-eye coordination
• Cheer for each other

Game: 3v3 Scrimmage

Arrival Activity: Dribble to Goal

Setup:

• Set up 4–6 small cone goals around a 15x20 grid.
• One ball per player.
• Space the goals out to encourage movement and open shooting lanes.

Execution:

Players dribble around the grid and choose any mini-goal to shoot into. After shooting, they retrieve their ball and pick a different goal to dribble toward and shoot again. Encourage them to try all the goals.

Coaching Points:

• Use short, soft touches to dribble.
• Step beside the ball and aim before shooting.
• Use the inside of the foot for better control.
• Encourage goal celebrations for fun and confidence!

Warm-Up Game: Chase Me

Setup:

• Create a 10x15 rectangular space.
• Players partner up (or coach pairs with a player if odd numbers). No ball required.

Execution:

In each pair, one player is the “runner” and the other is the “chaser.” On “Go,” the runner tries to reach the opposite side before being tagged. After each round, players switch roles. Progress to players dribbling a ball while chasing or running.

Coaching Points:

• Quick acceleration is great!
• Keep eyes forward and bend knees when turning.
• With the ball, keep touches soft while moving quickly.
• Make it playful and cheer for each effort.

Skill Game: Cone Goal Challenge

Setup:

• Create 3-4 small cone goals (about 3 feet wide) spaced 5–7 yards away from a shooting line.
• Each player has a ball.

Execution:

Players line up behind the shooting line and take turns dribbling a few steps and shooting into a cone goal. Rotate through all goals so each player practices shooting from different angles.

Coaching Points:

• Step next to the ball before kicking.
• Use the inside of the foot for accuracy; avoid toe-poking.
• Look at the target before shooting.
• Encourage them to “pass the ball into the goal” rather than blast it.

Coordination Game: One-Leg Hop Race

Setup:

• Create 2-3 straight “lanes” using cones, each about 10 yards long.
• No ball needed.

Execution:

Players race down the lane hopping on one foot. At halfway, switch feet. Make it into a fun race or relay. For more fun, add an animal twist (“hop like a frog” or “kangaroo race”).

Coaching Points:

• Balance with arms out wide.
• Bend knees slightly when landing.
• Keep it fun — don’t focus on speed.
• Let kids try both legs and cheer for effort.
• 
  

Game: 3v3 Small-Sided Scrimmage

Setup:

• Create a 20x25 field with two mini-goals using cones or Pugg goals.
• Divide players into two teams of 3 (or rotate with substitutes as needed).

Execution:

Let players play freely in 3v3 format. Encourage scoring and movement with the ball. Keep the game flowing, and focus on enjoyment and ball touches.

Coaching Points:

• Encourage dribbling and shooting, not just kicking away.
• Reinforce spacing and movement.
• Celebrate every goal with claps or cheers.
• Avoid over-coaching — let the game be the teacher!

Arrival Activity: Mini Goal Scoring

Setup:

• Create 4-6 small goals using cones or Pugg goals spaced evenly around a 15x20 grid.
• One ball per player.

Execution:

Players dribble around the area and choose any mini-goal to shoot into. After shooting, they retrieve their ball and choose a different goal to dribble toward and shoot again.

Coaching Points:

• Encourage using the inside of the foot to shoot accurately.
• Keep the ball close while dribbling.
• Emphasize calmness and focus before the shot.
• Celebrate every goal with a cheer or high-five.

Warm-Up: Find the Cone Color

Setup:

• Place cones of 4 different colors randomly across a 15x15 grid.
• One ball per player.

Execution:

Coach calls out a color (e.g., "Red!"), and players dribble their ball to a cone of that color. Once there, they must stop their ball and wait for the next instruction. Progression: call multiple colors or add silly movements on the way (hop, spin, etc.).

Coaching Points:

• Head up while dribbling to locate the cone.
• Use soft touches and changes of direction.
• Reinforce stopping the ball under control.
• Have fun by being playful in your commands.

Skill Game: Hit the Net

Setup:

• Create 2 mini-goals per team using cones or Pugg goals.
• Set a shooting line (5-7 yards from each goal).
• One ball per player.

Execution:

Players line up and take turns dribbling from behind the shooting line toward a goal and attempt to score. Encourage players to shoot at both goals during the activity. Reset after each shot.

Coaching Points:

• Approach the ball slowly for control before shooting.
• Use the inside of the foot for direction or laces for power.
• Eyes on the ball before contact.
• Encourage players to follow their shot.

Coordination Game: Crab Walk Race

Setup:

• Set up 2 lanes ~10 yards long using cones.
• No ball required.

Execution:

Players sit down with feet and hands on the ground, lift their hips, and “crab walk” forward to the finish. Let them race a friend or go in small heats. Optional: relay format.

Coaching Points:

• Keep hips lifted and move slowly at first.
• Use hands and feet together to move.
• Celebrate effort, not speed.
• Have fun and laugh with silly movements.

Game: 3v3 Free Play with Mini Goals

Setup:

• Use a 20x25 field with two small goals.
• Divide players into 2-3 teams of 3. Rotate teams if needed.

Execution:

Let the players play freely, 3v3, with basic guidance: dribble, try to score, and defend. No goalkeepers.

Coaching Points:

• Let them play — minimal interruption.
• Reinforce encouragement: “Great try!”, “Nice dribble!”, “Awesome goal!”
• Remind players to share the ball and have fun.
• Let players learn from the game naturally.

Arrival Activity: Dribble Like an Animal

Setup:

• 15x15 grid, one ball per player.
• Scatter a few cones (as animal habitats).

Execution:

Coach calls out an animal and kids dribble in a way that mimics it:

• Cheetah – fast dribbling
• Turtle – slow dribbling
• Kangaroo – dribble and hop
• Flamingo – dribble and stop on one foot

After a short dribble, they stop at an “animal habitat” (cone), then repeat with a new animal.

Coaching Points:

• Keep the ball close, even when moving fast.
• Use both feet.
• Show creativity – let them interpret the movement.
• Celebrate silly and fun actions!

Warm-Up: Animal Tag

Setup:

• 15x15 grid. No ball needed for warm-up.
• Choose 2 “taggers” who are “lions.”

Execution:

Other players are “zoo animals” and must avoid being tagged. When tagged, they must freeze and make their animal sound or movement (e.g., flap like a bird, crawl like a turtle) until a teammate high-fives them.

Coaching Points:

• Promote quick changes of direction.
• Keep heads up while moving.
• Emphasize playfulness and silliness over competition.

Skill Game: Score and Roar!

Setup:

• 4 small goals using cones spaced around the outside of a 15x15 grid.
• Each player with a ball inside the grid.

Execution:

Players dribble inside the grid. Coach calls out an animal and a color (e.g., “Tiger to Yellow Goal!”). That animal (assigned to specific players) must dribble and score in the nearest yellow goal, then return.

Coaching Points:

• Look up to find the correct goal.
• Control the ball before shooting.
• After scoring, encourage a big roar and celebration!

Coordination Game: Animal Relay

Setup:

• Create a simple 10-yard lane with cones.
• No ball needed.

Execution:

Players move like different animals to the end of the lane and back:

• Bear crawl
• Crab walk
• Frog hops
• Snake slither (on bellies)

Coaching Points:

• Encourage gross motor movements.
• Keep it silly — let them laugh.
• Promote balance and creative motion.

Game: 3v3 Scrimmage (Animal Teams)

Setup:

• 20x25 field with two small goals.
• Divide teams into animal names (Tigers vs. Monkeys, etc.).

Execution:

Let them play 3v3 while using their animal names and celebrating goals with animal sounds.

Coaching Points:

• Minimal instruction — let them play.
• Encourage passing and goal celebration.
• Let the game be fun and wild, but respectful.

Arrival Activity: Jungle Goals

Setup:

• Set up 4-6 small cone goals randomly in a 15x20 grid.
• One ball per player.

Execution:

Players dribble to any goal and shoot into it. Then they dribble to a different one. Ask them to name the animals guarding the goals (“Shoot past the crocodile!”).

Coaching Points:

• Soft touches when dribbling.
• Pause before shooting to aim.
• Use imagination: “Can you trick the crocodile?”

Warm-Up: Monkey See, Monkey Do

Setup:

• Coach leads from the front, players follow behind (no ball initially).

Execution:

Coach does silly movements — hopping, crawling, spinning, etc. — and players copy. Add the ball for a second round (dribble and copy coach’s footwork).

Coaching Points:

• Keep it fun and light.
• Encourage players to lead for a turn.
• Celebrate effort and imagination.

Skill Game: Jungle Path to Goal

Setup:

• Create two obstacle paths using cones (weaving), tall cones (to pass), and a mini-goal at the end.
• One player per path.

Execution:

Players dribble through the “jungle,” avoiding obstacles (cones are trees or snakes), pass between tall cones, and finish by shooting into the goal. Reset and repeat.

Coaching Points:

• Keep ball close through the jungle.
• Use inside of foot to pass through the “tree gate.”
• Finish the journey with a strong, accurate shot.

Coordination Game: Flamingo Balance Challenge

Setup:

• Each player on a cone in a circle.

Execution:

Players balance on one foot like flamingos. Hold it for 5 seconds. Repeat while tossing a bean bag or toy to a partner or coach. Try both legs.

Coaching Points:

• Knees slightly bent for balance.
• Arms out if needed.
• Celebrate balance, even if they fall!

Game: 3v3 Scrimmage (Jungle Cup)

Setup:

• Standard 20x25 field, 2 small goals.
• Teams given animal names again.

Execution:

Let them play freely in 3v3 games. Let each player take a turn in different positions and encourage creative celebrations.

Coaching Points:

• Focus on fun, scoring, and fair play.
• Ask questions like “What animal are you playing like today?”
• Wrap with team cheer: “1-2-3 Tigers!”

Arrival Activity: Pirate Free Play

Setup:

• 15x15 grid. One ball per player.
• Scatter cones (rocks), pinnies (sea creatures), and a few tall cones as palm trees.

Execution:

Players are pirates exploring the island with their ball. They dribble around, avoiding “rocks,” “sea creatures,” and “palm trees.” Encourage players to give names to parts of the island (e.g., volcano corner, treasure cave).

Coaching Points:

• Use both feet to move around the obstacles.
• Keep head up to navigate the “island.”
• Let the imagination flow—be playful as a coach too!

Warm-Up: Captain Says

(A pirate version of “Simon Says”)

Setup:

• Coach is “Captain.” Players lined up with their ball.

Execution:

Coach gives commands:

• “Captain says dribble fast!”
• “Captain says stop your ball!”
• “Captain says hop like a pirate!”
• If the captain doesn’t say “Captain says,” players shouldn’t move.

Coaching Points:

• Focus on listening and reaction.
• Dribble, stop, and move on command.
• Reinforce pirate theme (“Hoist the sail!” = run; “Drop anchor!” = stop ball)

Skill Game: Treasure Hunt

Setup:

• Spread cones, bean bags, or colored pennies around the grid — these are “treasures.”
• Each player has a small circle or base (their “pirate ship”).
• One ball per player.

Execution:

Players dribble to a “treasure,” stop their ball, pick up the treasure, dribble back to their base, and repeat.

Coaching Points:

• Keep the ball under control before picking up treasure.
• Encourage soft touches while carrying treasure back.
• Work on stop-start motion and awareness of surroundings.

Coordination Game: Walk the Plank

Setup:

• Use flat cones or lines of rope to make 3-4 “planks” (paths) for balance work.

Execution:

Players walk across the “plank” balancing with arms out. Add variations: balance a bean bag on head, hop at the end, walk backward.

Coaching Points:

• Use arms for balance.
• Keep steps small and slow.
• Challenge players to complete without falling into the “ocean.”

Game: 3v3 Scrimmage (Pirate Teams)

Setup:

• Standard 20x25 field, two small goals.
• Teams named after pirate ships (e.g., The Buccaneers vs. The Sea Dogs).

Execution:

Let them play freely, 3v3. Encourage celebration after “scoring cannon shots.”

Coaching Points:

• Minimal interruptions—let them play.
• Encourage calling out for treasure (the ball).
• Celebrate goal efforts with a “Yo ho ho!”

Arrival Activity: Fire the Cannons!

Setup:

• 3-4 cone goals or targets placed along the outside of the grid.
• One ball per player.

Execution:

Players dribble and shoot their ball (cannonball) into a target goal or cone area. Then retrieve and choose a new target.

Coaching Points:

• Step next to the ball before shooting.
• Try using inside of the foot for accuracy.
• Celebrate every “BOOM!” with energy!

Warm-Up: Pirate Island Tag

Setup:

• 15x15 grid with 2 “sharks” (taggers).
• One ball per player.

Execution:

Players dribble and try to avoid being tagged by sharks. If tagged, they go to the “shipwreck” (a cone island) and do 3 toe-taps before returning.

Coaching Points:

• Keep ball close while turning.
• Keep eyes up for sharks!
• Use quick changes of direction to escape.

Skill Game: Pirate Ship Attack (Shooting Accuracy)

Setup:

• Use 2 large cones or pop-up goals to represent the enemy ships.
• Create a shooting zone ~5-7 yards away.
• Divide players into small groups.

Execution:

Players dribble into the shooting zone and “fire” their cannonball (shoot into the goal). Reset and rotate through.

Coaching Points:

• Encourage accuracy before power.
• Step beside the ball for control.
• Eyes on the target (“enemy ship”) before shooting.

Coordination Game: Treasure Relay

Setup:

• Create two 10-yard lanes. Place beanbags (treasure) at the end of each.
• No ball needed.

Execution:

Players run (or crawl, hop, etc.) down the lane, collect a treasure, and bring it back to their ship. Relay-style or free play.

Coaching Points:

• Focus on body control.
• Celebrate each treasure returned.
• Use pirate language to keep the theme alive (“Aye aye!” / “Bring it to the deck!”)

Game: 3v3 Treasure Match

Setup:

• 20x25 field, two mini-goals.
• Add a few “treasure cones” (extra targets) in each corner to shoot at as bonuses.

Execution:

Let the kids play freely in teams. Score in the main goals, or try for bonus treasure targets.

Coaching Points:

• Encourage all players to try scoring.
• Allow creativity in how they play.
• Reinforce sportsmanship and celebrating others.

Arrival Activity: Super Free Dribble

Setup:

• 15x15 grid with cones marking the boundary.
• One ball per player. Scatter a few tall cones or dome cones around the grid.

Execution:

Players dribble freely while the coach gives superhero challenges:

• “Dribble like a speedy superhero!”
• “Freeze and strike a superhero pose!”
• “Dribble around the cone city!”

Coaching Points:

• Use soft touches and both feet.
• Keep head up while dribbling.
• Playful tone — encourage big, fun movements.

Warm-Up Game: Dribble Tag – Sidekick Edition

Setup:

• 15x15 grid. One ball per player. Select 2 “Super Villains” to be taggers.

Execution:

Players must dribble their ball and avoid being tagged. If tagged, they freeze and shout “Help, Sidekick!” A teammate can unfreeze them by stopping their ball next to theirs for a count of 3.

Coaching Points:

• Dribble with awareness and quick turns.
• Keep the ball close to escape trouble.
• Encourage teamwork and helping others.

Skill Game: Super Obstacle Course

Setup:

• Create a course using cones, gates, hoops, and a goal at the end:
• Cone zigzag (dribble)
• Ball tunnel (push ball under a hurdle)
• Cone gate pass
• Goal shot at the end

Execution:

Players go one at a time or in small groups through the entire course. Each section reinforces a core skill: dribbling, controlling, passing, and shooting.

Coaching Points:

• Take your time through each challenge.
• Dribble using both feet.
• Celebrate the goal finish with a superhero pose!

Coordination Game: Hero Balance Path

Setup:

• Lay out flat cones or rope lines as a winding “beam.”
• Place a few cones to step over.

Execution:

Players walk the path slowly (balance beam style). Try balancing a bean bag on their head or one foot.

Coaching Points:

• Focus on body control.
• Arms out for balance.
• Celebrate effort, not perfection.

Game: 3v3 Super Match (With a Twist)

Setup:

• Standard 20x25 field, two mini-goals.
• Give each player a superhero nickname for fun.

Execution:

Play a short 3v3 game. Every time a goal is scored, the team does a silly celebration (superhero pose, fist pump, jump spin).

Coaching Points:

• Let them play freely — minimize stoppages.
• Encourage passing and teamwork.
• Focus on fun and positivity!

Arrival Activity: Free Dribble Celebration

Setup:

• 15x15 grid, one ball per player.
• Add music (portable speaker or clapping beats).
• Scatter cones as goals or “islands.”

Execution:

Players dance, dribble, and show their best moves. Let them take turns showing off their favorite dribble move to the group.

Coaching Points:

• Encourage confidence and fun.
• Celebrate every player’s creativity.
• “Can you show me your coolest soccer trick?”

Warm-Up Game: Coach vs. Kids

Setup:

• All players vs. coach in the 15x20 grid.
• One ball per player.

Execution:

Players must dribble and protect their ball while the coach (gently!) tries to tag or kick out the ball. If their ball is kicked out, they do 3 jumping jacks and return.

Coaching Points:

• Shield the ball with their body.
• Keep ball close and change direction often.
• Let them “win” and laugh when they beat the coach!

Skill Game: Target Shot Challenge

Setup:

• Set up different targets to aim at (cones, stuffed animals, buckets).
• Create a shooting line 5–7 yards away.

Execution:

Players take turns shooting at targets. Let them choose which one to aim at each time. Use a points system if desired.

Coaching Points:

• Step next to the ball before shooting.
• Use inside foot or laces depending on comfort.
• Eyes on the target before shooting.
• Big celebration for every hit — “Bullseye!”

Coordination Game: Balloon or Bubble Chase

Setup:

• Use bubbles or balloons released by coach or helper.
• No ball required.

Execution:

Players run, jump, and try to catch or pop the bubbles/balloons. This is pure joy to celebrate a great season.

Coaching Points:

• Encourage running, tracking, leaping, and laughing!
• Let the moment be chaotic and fun.
• Take pictures if parents are around!

Game: Final Team Scrimmage + Tunnel Celebration

Setup:

• Set up a small field for 3v3 or 4v4.
• Add a goal tunnel (players line up and raise their arms like a bridge).

Execution:

Play a short, fun match. After the final whistle, every player runs through the “player tunnel” of high-fives from coaches and parents.

Coaching Points:

• Keep the game light and joyful.
• Help players rotate positions if needed.
• Celebrate the progress and confidence each child has gained.