This exercise is a variation of the famous "6 cones game" specific to Tiki Taka training. It is a passing circuit with 2 central players with numerous variations, ideal for soccer academies.
Place 4 cones to form a square of approximately 15m on each side, then place 2 cones in the center. Then place one player at each cone and duplicate the drill as many times as necessary depending on the number of players you have available.
The passing circuit will proceed as follows:
The 1st player (A) starts by playing a short pass to the 2nd player (B) located in the center.
The latter controls then plays to the opposite player (C).
C controls then makes another short pass to the 4th player (D).
D then plays back to the central player and the circuit continues.
Variation 1: perform the same circuit but without crossing the central players.
Variation without crossing the central players
Variation 2: remove one central player and perform the same circuit with a total of 5 players (instead of 6).
The U10 category includes children aged 10 and under and is a very important category in the development of cognitive and technical skills. The U10 players' category holds a special place in their development and soccer awakening. Beyond a symbolic age, it still marks a period of transition and deepening of fundamentals for young players. Both in the way of approaching this sport and in the management of training sessions, a certain preparation is necessary as a U10 coach.
To best assist you in structuring your training sessions, managing young players, or choosing exercises, here is a quick guide on the subject.
The objectives of the U10 category
The objectives of the U10 category go beyond learning the basic rules of soccer, already acquired in previous years. The goals at this age are to strengthen the few technical skills of young players, such as ball control, passing, and shooting, while beginning to develop their tactical awareness of the game.
Similarly, keep in mind that emphasis should still be placed on team play and the fun aspect in how training sessions are structured. This can be achieved through games at the end of sessions and exercises outside of soccer. As a U10 coach, you will need to be creative, while best instilling the values of soccer and developing each player's qualities.
Some tips for coaching a U10 team
Coaching a U10 team requires a balance between skill development, keeping young players focused during the session, and promoting the enjoyment of the game. Here are some essential tips for coaches:
Adopt a positive teaching approach: Constantly encourage players, focusing on their progress and efforts rather than victories. This helps build their confidence and motivation.
Focus on technical skills: Ensure that each training session includes basic exercises to improve ball control, passing, dribbling, and shooting (from close, mid-range…)
Introduce basic tactics: Start teaching simple formations and different roles and positions on the field. Use games and activities that encourage players to think about their positioning and movements on the pitch.
Promote team play: Team spirit becomes more present in U10 teams, with young players developing a stronger sense of belonging.
What training exercises for U10s?
U10 training exercises should be designed to improve both individual skills of each player while emphasizing the basics of team play. The U10 soccer category exercises are varied and cover several themes: technical workshops, initial tactical aspects, passing work, shooting, etc.
Lacking inspiration in structuring your training sessions? Here is a list of exercises to help you:
Technical courses: Create courses with cones to practice dribbling, ball control, and changes of direction. This improves ball mastery and coordination.
Triangle or square passing games: These games help develop passing accuracy, quick decision-making, and off-the-ball play.
Mini-matches: Organize matches in small groups (3 vs 3 or 4 vs 4) to encourage interactions and understanding of team play. This also allows applying technical skills in a match context.
Shooting workshops: Set up specific exercises for shooting, focusing on technique before power. Vary angles and distances to encourage accuracy.
