U4-U6 Player “The Explorer”

Typical Characteristics of U4/U6 Players

• Enjoying playing, not watching.  Make sure every player has a ball in practice.

• Limited attention span (on average 15 seconds for listening).  Be clear, concise and to the point.

• Look for adult approval.  Be encouraging when they say “Coach, look what I can do!”

• Typically have 2 speeds -- extremely fast and stopped

• Usually unaware of game scores – we should keep it that way

 

Technique

Ø  Dribbling with all sides of feet               }

Ø  Turning with a ball                                    }          Both Feet

Ø  Skills                                                  }

Ø  Fun games with and without the ball   }

Ø  Coordination and Balance                        }         

Structured

Ø  Small sided games            }          Fun Based

Ø  1v1, 2v2, 3v3 etc  }          Encourage positive play and individual expression

Ø  Relay races                         }

Ø  Different types of movement (jumping, skipping, tumbling, hopping, etc..)}

 

US Youth Soccer & JFC Recommendations:

Game Form:            3 vs 3 (without a goalkeeper)

Game Duration:      4x8 minutes (free substitution)

Field Size:                 30 yards x 20 yards

Ball Size/Game Rules:#3. Kick-ins, goal kicks and corner kicks.

Practices:                 JFC Skillz Training only (check website for dates & times)