U-14 Boys Advice Needed

[GeordieInExile]

Hi guys, its possible that I will be head coach of a U-14 boys travel team for the fall season and tryouts are the week after next.

From what I'm aware when the boys played 8 v 8 they were a pretty decent side. But when they made the transition to 11 v 11, they struggled quite a bit getting beat heavily, and winning only a few.

Without seeing the players for myself (try-outs will be my first glimpse), I can't judge the players ability, but I was wondering how some of you would approach the first few weeks of training.

I had planned on getting them in early to do some pre-season training and work with the back four as a unit, first and second defender, team shape and overloading defensive situations, like 3 v 2 etc etc

Is this the way you would go? Do you have any advice or other sessions you would focus on?

[ClarkC]

A lot of coaches at younger ages skimp on defensive coaching, especially in 8v8 with only 2-3 in the back. They think you can put a couple of fast, aggressive guys back there and everything will be OK. The things you are talking about teaching in preseason are right on the mark.

[BigGuy]

Divide them up after warm up and let them play against each other. You will see a lot and learn a lot about them fast.

[uniteo]

I would try to arrange some scrimmages also

[Twenty26Six]

All good advice.

Let them play small-sided games early, and then look for situations where they struggle.

Starting with 1st/2nd defender is a great way to go. Developing good 1v1 defending skills and a sense of responsibility in defense will go a long way.

Other than that it depends on the kids. But, visual awareness and instep passing can always be coached up.

[GeordieInExile]

Thanks for the response guys - much appreciated.

I was going to try and plan it all out, but I think I'll leave the planning until I've seen them in action at the try outs. There are apparently 5 or 6 good players, and when playing 8 v 8, those good players could carry the players with less ability. Now they're playing 11 v 11, and are unable to carry any players during games.

What kind of roster size would you pick? I was thinking of 15 or 16.

[loghyr]

This may be wrong, but it sounds like you are going in planning on taking the same kids as the current squad.

Do you have the power to cut? Do you have the power to bring in new blood?

BTW what is the current roster size?

[GeordieInExile]

This may be wrong, but it sounds like you are going in planning on taking the same kids as the current squad.

Do you have the power to cut? Do you have the power to bring in new blood?

BTW what is the current roster size?

One of the reasons I've been offered the role is for a fresh start for the team. I'll be making my own evaluations (along with my DOC) and cutting or adding players judged on how they perform on the two days of try-outs.

I will not be keeping kids because they have a big reputation or because parents say their boy is good - I want to see it.

I think the current squad size is about 14 or 15.

[DerbyRam54]

Divide them up after warm up and let them play against each other. You will see a lot and learn a lot about them fast.
I'd try adding a little wrinkle to this. When they come to play, have two piles of practice pinnies and a football. Cones for goals if needed. Tell them to get on with it. Let them divide themselves up into teams.
It might be chaotic for a few minutes, but you'd see who your leaders are. You'll also have a shortcut to figuring out who the good players are, because they know that already. You still need to observe of course, but I'd be willing to bet they know what the pecking order is.
If you try this, let me know how it works!

[loghyr]

One of the reasons I've been offered the role is for a fresh start for the team. I'll be making my own evaluations (along with my DOC) and cutting or adding players judged on how they perform on the two days of try-outs.

Thanks, it helps me understand what you are going through.

And it sounds like you are confident on your ability to evaluate (i.e., your original question isn't about the tryouts, but for after).

Maybe I would treat them like any other team which was just making the transition from 8v8 to 11v11. Pretend the last year hadn't happened.

And I think I'm seeing that in both your plan and what you are hearing...

[GeordieInExile]

Maybe I would treat them like any other team which was just making the transition from 8v8 to 11v11.Pretend the last year hadn't happened.



I think thats the general consensus - they want to forget it happened! :D

I want to have the boys in as good a shape physically, tactically and technically as they can be to progress as individuals and team players.