k aya f c a c a d e m y

Sessions
KAYA FC
ACADEMY
SESSIONS
Kaya FC Academy Sessions operate on a 7 Our academy players learn in a very
week cycle where the coaches will deliver the dynamic, game-related setting which means
sessions either as prescribed in the coaching you won’t see players stood around in lines
manual, or deliver a session which the coach and doing endless un-opposed drills. Instead,
themselves has designed and has been you will see players interacting with one-
approved by our Technical Director. All age another in activities that resemble the game
groups will follow the same training cycle, of football.
with the sessions altered depending on the The aim of this approach is to develop free-
age group and the level of the training group*. thinking, autonomous footballers, capable
During the training cycle, coaches cover of making their own decisions during
various topics to ensure that each individual matchplay. We believe that this approach will
player is afforded a well-rounded football lead a heightened level of enjoyment of the
education with each session prepared, game as well as a stronger affinity towards the
organised and delivered to the highest football club as a whole.
standard. Within each session, we also touch
upon various sub-topics using our constraints
For a more in-depth look into the clubs philosophy and approach to training,
and games led approach to enable a more you can download our Coaching Manual at [Link]
organic learning environment.
KAYA FC ACADEMY SESSIONS
KINDERSOCCER
Session 1

Finishing
kindersoccer
Session 1 - finishing

1. 3V3 Warm Up Game

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
16x24

Objective:
3v3 game to the mini goals. Freeplay- no
coaching is allowed. Ensure that there are
plenty of balls. Rotate the teams every
3-4 mins.

Progressions:
Allow on occasions for the players to pick
their own teams, their own rules, the size of
the field etc.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 1 - finishing

2. ZOMBIE RUN

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
20x20

Objective:
Each player has a ball and positions
themselves on one side of the grid. In the
middle zone (5x20) there is a team of
‘zombies’ who will try to grab the players’
ball. If they grab the ball, the player
dribbling becomes a zombie as well. Last
person standing is the winner.

Progressions:
1) Zombies have to be on all fours
2) On all fours like a crab

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 1 - finishing

3. 2V1 FINISHING

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, mini goals, big goal, cones

Size:
20x20

Objective:
Split the teams into two, with one team being the
defenders (here in blue), the other being the attackers
(in yellow). The game starts by the yellows dribbling
a ball each to the small goals, while at the same time,
the blue defender dribbles towards the big goal. The
coach then serves a ball to the 2 yellow players who
must play 2v1 to the big goal. If the defender wins
the ball, they try to score in the small goal. The player
with the ball must use good decision making skills to
work out whether to dribble, to pass to his teammate
or to shoot. The defender must decide whether to
cover the ball carrier, the spare player or the goal.

Progressions:
Add a goalkeeper in the big goal.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 1 - finishing

4. 4v4 GAME WITH GK’S

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
16x24

Objective:
3v3 game to the mini goals. Ensure that there
are plenty of balls. Rotate the teams every
3-4 mins.

Progressions:
Allow on occasions for the players to pick
their own teams, their own rules, the size of
the field etc.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
 PASSING
Session 2

Passing
kindersoccer
Session 2 - PASSING

1. 3v3 Endline Game

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
20x20

Objective:
3v3 game where the team must try to score
by stopping the ball on the end line.

Progressions:
1) If you score at one end, immediately turn
around and try to score at the other end
2) You can score at any of the end lines, but
have one team trying to score east to west,
the other trying to score north or south.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 2 - PASSING

2. FOX HUNT

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs

Size:
20x20

Objective:
Each player has a ball with a bib tucked into
the back of his or her shorts. Two players
are designated as the ‘Fox’ and must try and
retrieve the bib from their shorts. If the player
is caught, they then become foxes too. Last
player standing gets to choose who is the fox
next game. If you step out of the square you
become the fox too.

Progressions:
Player’s must play with a ball at their feet

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 2 - PASSING

3. 2V1 PASSING

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones, mini goals, big goal

Size:
20x20

Objective:
Split the teams into two. The game starts
by the coach rolling the ball in, with the
attacking team (in yellow) trying to score in
either of the two mini goals. The defender (in
blue) tries to stop them from scoring, and if
they retrieve the ball, they must try to score
in the big goal.

Progressions:
Place a time limit on how long they have to
score e.g 15 seconds they must score or both
teams are off.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 2 - PASSING

4. Knock over the

Cone Game
Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
26x20

Objective:
Split the teams into two with a 3 yard
endzone at each end of the pitch. Players
play a normal game with the object being to
pass the ball onto the cone to score, without
entering the endzone.

Progressions:
You can alter the distance from which the
players must score from dependent on the
players’ ability. You can also use bigger
items to hit e.g a trash can.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
 ATTACKING
Session 3

Attacking
kindersoccer
Session 3 - ATTACKING

1. 3V3 ENDZONE GAME

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
20x20

Objective:
3v3 game where the team must try to score
by stopping the ball on the endzone.

Progressions:
If you score at one end, immediately turn
around and try to score at the other end

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 3 - ATTACKING

2. TRAFFIC LIGHTS

Equipment:
Balls, cones

Size:
20x20

Objective:
Each player has a ball with the players on
the move in the box. The coach gets players
to perform tasks based on traffic signals.
When the coach says ‘the lights are GREEN’
players must dribble with the ball quickly.
When he calls ‘lights are RED’ they must
stop. When the ‘lights are ORANGE’ they
must slow down by doing toe taps.

Progressions:
‘Runaway Jeepney’ means the coaches must
try to the get the balls from the players.
‘Stop sign’ means they must stop for 3
seconds then go again. ‘Roundabout’ means
they dribble the ball in a circle.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 3 - ATTACKING

3. numbered 1v1

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
Penalty box

Objective:
The coach numbers each player and calls
out a number. A player from each team then
enters the field of play and play 1v1 against
each other. The game ends when the ball is
out of play or a goal is scored.

Progressions:
1) Call two or three numbers
2) First team to 10 goals wins
3) Most goals in a time frame wins

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 3 - ATTACKING

4. 3v3 game

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
16x24

Objective:
3v3 game to mini-goals. Play a normal game
but if you beat an opponent and score a
goal, it counts for 2. If you beat 2 players
and score it counts for 3 (and so on).

Progressions:
Allow on occasions for the players to pick
their own teams, their own rules, the size of
the field etc.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
 defending
Session 4

Defending
KINDERSOCCER
Session 4 - DEFENDING

1. 4 corner goal game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
30x40 yards

Objective:
Players are split into two teams, with the
objective being to score by passing the ball
into the ball into one of the two corner goals.

Progressions:
1) Touch restrictions e.g. 2 touch per player
2) One touch finish into the goal

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 4 - defending

2. STUCK IN THE MUD

Equipment:
Balls, cones

Size:
20x20

Objective:
Each player has a ball with a coach/es in the
middle, also with a ball. The objective is for
the coach/es to tag a player by passing his
or her ball onto their ball. When the player
is hit, they must stand still with the ball over
their head, stuck in the mud. One of the
players can free the player who is stuck by
passing the ball between their legs.

Progressions:
1) Player’s can tag the coach/es by striking
the ball against their legs
2) Player’s can crawl between their legs to
free a player
3) Players can be the taggers

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 4 - defending

3. NUMBERED 1V1

Equipment:
Balls, cones

Size:
20x20

Objective:
Split the teams into two and pair them off by
gving them a number. When the coach calls
out a number, a player from each team must
come out and play 1v1 to goal. Coaches can
either be on the side, or play in goal.

Progressions:
1) Call out 2 numbers and play 2v2
2) Players must run around the opposition
goal before entering the field.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 4 - defending

4. 4v4 game with gk’s

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
16x24

Objective:
3v3 game to the mini goals. Ensure that there
are plenty of balls. Rotate the teams every
3-4 mins.

Progressions:
Allow on occasions for the players to pick
their own teams, their own rules, the size of
the field etc.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
 shielding
Session 5

shielding
kindersoccer
Session 5 - SHIELDING

1. 3V3 CONE OFF GAME

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
20x20

Objective:
3v3 game where the team must try to score
by knocking the ball off the cone.

Progressions:
1) First team to knock off all 4 wins
2) Add a 5m zone (or closer/ further away
depending on their ability) where the players
must shoot in front of.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 5 - SHIELDING

2. KING OF THE RING

Equipment:
Balls

Size:
20x20 (adjustable for numbers of players)

Objective:
Each player has a ball and must dribble
around the area while protecting it from the
other players, who are trying to kick the
other players’ ball out of the square. The last
person standing at the end of the game is
the winner.

Progressions:
If a player’s ball is kicked out, a player can
re-enter the square if they can do a certain
amount of juggles

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 5 - SHIELDING

3. 2V1 SHIELDING

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones, mini-goals

Size:
20x20

Objective:
The coach serves the ball in to the middle of
two players with the attacking team (yellow)
having a 2v1 advantage over the defenders
(blue). The yellow attacker must initially deal
with a ball given by the coach and shield the
ball and retain possession using their body.
The yellows must then combine to score in
either of the mini goals. If the blues win the
ball, they score by stopping the ball on the
end line.

Progressions:
1) Coach can change the type of delivery
e.g in the air, bouncing ball etc
2) Change the angle of delivery e.g with
pressure from behind/ pressure from the
other side.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 5 - SHIELDING

4. CORNER GOALS GAME

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs

Size:
30x30

Objective:
Spilt the teams in two playing 4v4. Players
can score in any of the four goals in the
corners by dribbling or passing through
the goals.

Progressions:
1) Play end to end scoring in either of
the two goals
2) Can’t score in the same goal twice in a
row, if they score in one goal it is locked until
a goal is scored in another goal
3) Score in all 4 of the goals

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
 RECEIVING
Session 6

Receiving
kindersoccer
Session 6 - RECEIVING

1. 3V3 WARM UP GAME

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
16x24

Objective:
3v3 game to the mini-goals. Play a normal
game but if you make two passes before you
score a goal, the goal counts for two. If you
make 3 passes and you score the goal counts
for 3 (and so on).

Progressions:
Allow on occasions for the players to pick
their own teams, their own rules, the size of
the field etc.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 6 - RECEIVING

2. GATES GAME

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs

Size:
30x40

Objective:
Player’s are split into 2 teams and the
objective is to pass the ball through the gate
to one of your teammates to score a goal.

Progressions:
1) Can’t score through the same gate twice
2) Score in all of the gates

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 6 - RECEIVING

3. 2V1 WAVE ATTACKS

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones, mini goals

Size:
20x20

Objective:
Split the teams into 3, with one team
defending each time, while the other two
teams partner up. The game starts by the
coach serving the ball to the attacking team.
Attacking alternately, the two attacking
teams play 2v1 to the mini goals. If the
defending team wins it, they score by
dribbling the ball through the central gate.

Progressions:
The coach will vary the type of ball they
need to change the type of reception e.g
bouncing ball, spinning ball, aerial ball. This
will emphasize using different body parts to
control the ball.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 6 - RECEIVING

4. corner goals game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs

Size:
30x30

Objective:
Spilt the teams in two playing 4v4. Players
can score in any of the four goals in the
corners by dribbling or passing through
the goals.

Progressions:
1) Play end to end scoring in either of the
two goals
2) Can’t score in the same goal twice in a
row, if they score in one goal it is locked until
a goal is scored in another goal
3) Score in all 4 of the goals

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
 turning
PASSING
Session 7

Turning
kindersoccer
Session 7 - TURNING

1. OUTNUMBERED GAME

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
24x36

Objective:
x3v5 plus goalies to the mini goals. The team
with 3 players have unlimited touches while
the team with 5 have a touch limit (2 or 3
touches depending on ability).

Progressions:
Rotate the players so they have the chance
to be the numbers up or numbers down team.
Have fewer or more players depending on
ability/ number of players etc.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 7 - TURNING

2. COWBOYS AND
INDIANS GAME

Equipment:
Balls, cones

Size:
20x20

Objective:
Player’s line up at one end of the square with
the coach on the side of the grid. The players
(Indian’s) must get to the other side without
being hit on the leg by the Coach (Cowboy). If
a player does get hit, they then join the coach
as Cowboy’s. The last player standing wins.

Progressions:
Each player has a ball, and must make it
across the grid without their ball being hit

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 7 - TURNING

3. 1v1 Semi to
Full Opposed
Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
20x20

Objective:
One attacker aims to dribble the ball through
either of the central gates. The defender tries
to mirror the attacker and stop them from
dribbling through the gate. However, the
defender must stay on their side of the line and
cannot cross it. If the attacker loses control of
the ball and goes to the defenders side, they
can intercept it.

Progressions:
The attacker can score in either side gate, but
can also score by dribbling through either
of the end pole goals. Develop the game by
adding a scoring system, e.g 1 point to score in
the side gates, 3 points to score in the
pole goals.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
kindersoccer
Session 7 - TURNING

4. 4 corner goal game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
30x40 yards

Objective:
Players are split into two teams, with the
objective being to score by passing the ball
into the ball into one of the two corner goals.

Progressions:
1) Touch restrictions e.g. 2 touch per player
2) One touch finish into the goal

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
 U8-10
KAYA FC ACADEMY SESSIONS
U8 - 10
Session 1

Finishing
U8 - 10
Session 1 - finishing

1. 4v4 game with gk’s

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
16x24

Objective:
4v4 game with goalkeepers. Play a normal
game with the only rule being if you shoot
and miss the target, you have to run around
the 4 corners of the field before you can re-
enter the field of play again.

Progressions:
In order to win the game, all 3 outfield
players must score.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 1 - finishing

2. 1v1 transition game

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones, mini goals

Size:
20x20

Objective:
Player A & Player B wait for the coach’s
call to ‘go’. When that happens, player A
dribbles and shoots at the goalkeeper while
player tries to pass the ball into the small
goal. The coach then serves the ball to
player B who goes 1v1 to the big goal. If the
defender wins it, they try to score in the small
goal opposite.

Progressions:
Add a scoring system, e.g 1 goal for an
unopposed goal in the big goal, 3 points
for a goal with the defender involved in the
big goal. 1 point is also awarded for the
defender if they win it and score in the small
goal. First team to 10 points, wins.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 1 - finishing

3. 3v2s

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
Double penalty box

Objective:
Split the teams into two equal numbers. Position
two goals 36 yards apart (double 18’). Place
an attacker, one from each team on the edge of
the box for both teams. The game starts by the
attacking team (two players either side of the
posts) playing the ball to the spare player who
joins the game to play 3v2 to goal. The game is
finished when there is either a goal or the ball
goes out of play. Once the team has attacked,
they must stay in and defend for one attack,
when the other team plays 3v2 against them.

Progressions:
1) First team to 10 goals wins
2) Most goals in a time frame wins
3) If the defending team wins the ball and
scores it counts for 2

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 1 - finishing

4. sniffer game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
30x50 yards

Objective:
Players are split into two teams playing a
game. The field is spilt into 3, with 2 ‘sniffer’s
playing as strikers for one team. They stay
inside their zone and can only score from a
rebound/ 1 touch finish.

Progressions:
Progress to regular game.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
 PASSING
Session 2

Passing
U8 - 10
Session 2 - PASSING

1. 3v3 cone off game

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
20x20

Objective:
3v3 game where the team must try to score
by knocking the ball off the cone.

Progressions:
1) First team to knock off all 4 wins
2) Add a 5m zone (or closer/ further away
depending on their ability) where the players
must shoot in front of.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 2 - PASSING

2. possession by numbers

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs

Size:
20x20

Objective:
Player’s are split into 2 teams and are
numbered 1-5. When the coach calls a
number, that player from each team runs into
the opposition area and tries to retrieve the
ball. The other players play keep away until
the ball goes out of play or the defender
plays the ball back into his/her side.

Progressions:
1) Send two numbers
2) Add a neutral player to create
numerical advantage
3) Touch limitations

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 2 - PASSING

3. 4 corner goal game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
30x40 yards

Objective:
Players are split into two teams, with the
objective being to score by passing the ball
into one of the two corner goals.

Progressions:
1) Touch restrictions e.g. 2 touch per player
2) One touch finish into the goal

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 2 - PASSING

4. small sided game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
30x50 yards

Objective:
Players are split into two teams playing a
normal, directional game. Only restriction is
once the player on the ball has passed it, they
MUST move afterwards. If a player fails to
move after they have played it, then the ball
automatically turns over to the opposition.

Progressions:
1) Touch restrictions e.g. 2 touch per player
2) Must be a one touch finish
3) Everyone must be in the attacking half, if
not, the goal doesn’t count
4) Everyone must be back in your defensive
half otherwise it’s an extra goal for every
player who isn’t back.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
Session 3

1v1
Attacking
U8 - 10
Session 3 - 1V1 ATTACKING

1. endzone game

Equipment:
Balls, cones

Size:
30x40 yards

Objective:
Players are split into two teams, with the
objective being to score by having control of
the ball in the 5 yard endzone by either 1)
receiving a pass or 2) dribbling into the zone.
Defenders cannot go into the zone to prevent
the team in possession from receiving it.

Progressions:
Defenders can follow the attackers into the
zone to defend the zone.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 3 - 1V1 ATTACKING

2. 1v1 Semi to
Full Opposed
Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
20x20

Objective:
One attacker aims to dribble the ball through
either of the central gates. The defender
tries to mirror the attacker and stop them
from dribbling through the gate. However,
the defender must stay on their side of the
line and cannot cross it. If the attacker loses
control of the ball and goes to the defenders
side, they can intercept it.

Progressions:
The attacker can score in either side gate, but
can also score by dribbling through either
of the end pole goals. Develop the game
by adding a scoring system, e.g. 1 point to
score in the side gates, 3 points to score in
the pole goals.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 3 - 1V1 ATTACKING

3. 6 goal game

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
30x40

Objective:
Split the teams into two, with the objective
being to score in any of the three gates.

Progressions:
1) Must be a one touch finish in the gates
2) If you have many numbers, add a blocker
to work behind each endline. The attacking
team cannot score if the blocker is standing
between the two poles. This will encourage
the players to scan the pitch and improve
their field vision.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 3 - 1V1 ATTACKING

4. Big Goal - Counter

Goal Game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals, poles

Size:
Half field

Objective:
Players are split into two teams with one team
attacking the big goal, and the other aiming
to score by passing through the three gates.

Progressions:
1) If you score in the three goals, turn around
and score to the big goal
2) Only goals in the big goal count

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
Session 4

1v1
Defending
U8 - 10
Session 4 - 1V1 DEFENDING

1. 3v3 endline game

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
20x20

Objective:
3v3 game where the team must try to score
by stopping the ball on the end line.

Progressions:
1) If you score at one end, immediately turn
around and try to score at the other end
2) You can score at any of the end lines, but
have one team trying to score east to west,
the other trying to score north or south.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 4 - 1V1 DEFENDING

2. numbered 1v1s

Equipment:
Balls, cones

Size:
20x20

Objective:
Split the teams into two and pair them off by
gving them a number. When the coach calls
out a number, a player from each team must
come out and play 1v1 to goal. Coaches can
either be on the side, or play in goal.

Progressions:
1) Call out 2 numbers and play 2v2
2) Players must run around the opposition
goal before entering the field.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 4 - 1V1 DEFENDING

3. wave attack game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, poles

Size:
30x40

Objective:
Player’s are split into teams (here there are
5) with three goals at each end and score
by passing through the gates. Each team
stays in for one attacking wave, and one
defensive wave in a 3v3 to goal. Once a
team has finished their defensive turn, they
exit the field quickly and go to the back of
the opposite line in which they entered.

Progressions:
1) One touch through the gate
2) First team to 10 goals wins
3) Add a retreat line so players must fall
back to a particular area before defending

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 4 - 1V1 DEFENDING

4. Man to Man
Small Sided Game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
30x50 yards

Objective:
Players are split into two teams playing a
normal, directional game. The only rule is
that they must pair off and can only tackle
their direct opponent. Mark down both the
team and individual scores.

Progressions:
Progress to regular game.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
Session 5

Shielding
U8 - 10
Session 5 - SHIELDING

1. 3v5 Outnumbered Game

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
24x36

Objective:
3v5 plus goalies to the mini goals. The team
with 3 players have unlimited touches while
the team with 5 have a touch limit (2 or 3
touches depending on ability)

Progressions:
Rotate the players so they have the chance
to be the numbers up or numbers down team

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 5 - SHIELDING

2. 2v1 shielding

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones, mini-goals

Size:
20x20

Objective:
The coach serves the ball in to the middle of
two players with the attacking team (yellow)
having a 2v1 advantage over the defenders
(blue). The yellow attacker must initially deal
with a ball given by the coach and shield the
ball and retain possession using their body.
The yellows must then combine to score in
either of the mini goals. If the blues win the
ball, they score by stopping the ball on the
end line.

Progressions:
1) Coach can change the type of delivery
e.g in the air, bouncing ball etc
2) Change the angle of delivery e.g with
pressure from behind/ pressure from the
other side.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 5 - SHIELDING

3. 5v5 Corner Box Game

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
20x20

Objective:
Split the teams into two, with both teams
trying to score in the 2 boxes (4x4) at the
corner of the grid by stopping the ball inside
the square.

Progressions:
If you score at one end, immediately turn
around and try to score at the other end.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 5 - SHIELDING

4. sMALL sIDED game

restart from the gk

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
30x50 yards

Objective:
Players are split into two teams playing
a normal, directional game. The only
difference is from every restart, the coach
encourages everyone to match up 1v1, tight
to an opponent, and only on his whistle may
the goalkeeper play out to restart the game.

Progressions:
Progress to a normal game.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
Session 6

Receiving
U8 - 10
Session 6 - RECEIVING

1. small sided game

with bumpers

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
30x50 yards

Objective:
Players are split into three teams playing a
normal, directional game with targets on the
end. Players can use the targets to play off,
which have a touch limit (one or two touches)

Progressions:
Rotate the players on the outside each time a
goal is scored.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 6 - RECEIVING

2. 5v5 bumpers

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
30x30

Objective:
5v5 (depending on numbers) game where
the team must try to score by playing into
the target players at the end.

Progressions:
1) If you score at one end, immediately turn
around and try to score at the other end
2) You score when you pass the ball
successfully from one side to the other.
3) You cannot play outside to outside
4) Cannot play to the same bumper twice in
a row

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 6 - RECEIVING

3. target players
sMALL sIDED game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
2/3 field

Objective:
Players are split into two teams with one big
goal and three target players at the top of
the field. Teams play a directional game with
the attacking team playing to the big goal,
with the defending team trying to score by
passing to the three targets players.

Progressions:
1) Once you score in the targets, teams play
in the opposite direction
2) Only goals to the big goal count

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 6 - RECEIVING

4. Wide Goals, Dribble

through to big Goal Game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals, poles

Size:
Full Width x 2/3 of the field

Objective:
Players are split into two teams with one
team attacking the big goal, and the other
aiming to score by passing one touch
through the wide goals, or dribble through
the central gate.

Progressions:
1) If you score in the two goals, or the
central gate, turn around and score to the
big goal
2) Only goals in the big goal count

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
Session 7

Turning
U8 - 10
Session 7 - TURNING

1. corner goals game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs

Size:
30x30

Objective:
Spilt the teams in two playing 4v4. Players
can score in any of the four goals in the
corners by dribbling or passing through
the goals.

Progressions:
1) Play end to end scoring in either of the
two goals
2) Can’t score in the same goal twice in a
row, if they score in one goal it is locked until
a goal is scored in another goal
3) Score in all 4 of the goals

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 7 - TURNING

2. 1v1

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs

Size:
20x20

Objective:
Players play 1v1 to the endzone, with the
attacker dribbling the ball in and scoring by
stopping the ball in the area behind the line.
Rotate the attacker and defender each turn.

Progressions:
1) Take the endzone out and play 1v1 to
the poles where the attacker can score by
passing through the poles
2) Play 1v1 to the yellow coned gate
3) Attacker can score for 2 points in the
yellow cones or 1 point in the poles.
Emphasis on this game can be defensive
or offensive.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 7 - TURNING

3. 6 goal game

Equipment:
Balls, bibs, cones

Size:
30x40

Objective:
Split the teams into two, with the objective
being to score in any of the three gates.

Progressions:
1) Must be a one touch finish in the gates
2) If you have many numbers, add a blocker
to work behind each endline. The attacking
team cannot score if the blocker is standing
between the two poles. This will encourage
the players to scan the pitch and improve
their field vision.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U8 - 10
Session 7 - TURNING

4. Big Goal - Counter

Goal Game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals, poles

Size:
Half field

Objective:
Players are split into two teams with one
team attacking the big goal, and the other
aiming to score by passing through the
three gates.

Progressions:
1) If you score in the three goals, turn
around and score to the big goal
2) Only goals in the big goal count

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
 U11-13
KAYA FC ACADEMY SESSIONS
U11 - 13
KAYA FC ACADEMY SESSIONS

Elite
Development
Program

As Academy players progress through the age play at the highest level of domestic football as
categories, when players turn 11 they begin to well participate in international competition. Many
transition from small sided to 11-a-side football and of these players harbour ambitions to play in high
Academy members gravitate towards one of two school, college and professionally.
categories; Kaya’s Recreational Academy or Kaya’s
Elite Development Program (EDP). These sessions are sample sessions which we will
For those enrolled in the Recreational Academy, deliver to our EDP players.
sessions are linked to regular academy sessions that
you will see in the U8-11s program but are adjusted
based on the age and ability of the players. These
players are looking for high level training but in a
more social, recreational environment.
Players within our EDP train independently
from the academy with the aim to provide them
with the best possible learning environment to
maximise and accelerate their football and personal
development. Players in the EDP are looking to
Session 1

Building Out
the Back
U11 - 13
Session 1 - BUILDING OUT THE BACK

1. 4v2 rondo

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
8x10

Objective:
4v2 possession rondo (keep away).
Objective is to keep the ball away from the
players in the middle. Ensure that you apply
technical information to the rondo, e.g. body
shape, playing to the correct foot, angle of
support, weight of pass etc.

Progressions:
1) Touch limits
2) 10 passes defenders stay in
3) Nutmeg stay in
4) Split pass through the two in the middle
the defenders stay in etc.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 1 - BUILDING OUT THE BACK

2. playing out the back

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, mannequins, goals

Size:
Half pitch

Objective:
The exercise begins by the ball being clipped into the
goalkeeper. From here, one of the teams will attempt
to build out of the back and play into the three targets
(assistant coaches/ injured players/ volunteers) through
various patterns of play, based on how the coach wants
them to play. The other team will do the same after they
work through the patterns. For example, you can start
from the goalkeeper and explain how you want them
to play (look to play into the full-backs, centre backs,
the forwards etc) and then work through your central
defenders (do you want them to split or drop deep to
receive it) and full-backs (do you want them to go high
and wide or narrow and compact). You can develop the
exercise by them elaborating on the role of the defensive
midfielders (e.g do you want them to drop deep to
receive it) and then the roles of the attacking midfielder
(e.g drop on angles to receive it or get ready to receive
the second ball from a long ball).

Progressions:
Take out the mannequins and have the second team semi-
oppose the team in possession

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 1 - BUILDING OUT THE BACK

3. Big Goal - Counter

Goal Game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals, poles

Size:
Half field

Objective:
Players are split into two teams with one
team attacking the big goal, and the other
aiming to score by passing through the
three gates.

Progressions:
1) If you score in the three goals, turn
around and score to the big goal
2) Only goals in the big goal count

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 1 - BUILDING OUT THE BACK

4. 3 zone game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
2/3 of a pitch

Objective:
Regular game, with the only rule being
when the game restarts, it must always start
from the goalkpeeper and they cannot play
directly into the middle zone (they can play
into the first and final third only) from the
restart. This will encourage play out the back
but also manage the opposition in case they
try to overcommit during the build-up phase.

Progressions:
Freeplay for the last 10 mins of the session.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
Session 2

Defending
From the Front
U11 - 13
Session 2 - DEFENDING FROM THE FRONT

1. Transitional Rondo
Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
8x10 x 2 boxes, 5m gap in between

Objective:
Split the group into 3 teams of 6. Two groups of
6 will occupy the two boxes while the other team
of 6 waits on the outside of the middle zone.
The coach will play a ball into a box where a
6v2 possession (keep away) takes place. The
objective is to keep the ball away from the
players in the middle and make 6 consecutive
passes before transferring the ball to the other
side. If that happens successfully, another two
players go in to defend the ball in the other
box. If the defending team forces a turnover in
possession, then the team that lost the ball is
now the defending team.

Progressions:
1) Touch limits
2) Time limits (most interceptions by one team in
90 seconds)
3) First team to 10 transfers wins etc.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 2 - DEFENDING FROM THE FRONT

2. Defending from
the Front
Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals, mini goals

Size:
Half Pitch

Objective:
Functional practice developing into a phase
of play exercise. The ball starts with the
opposition goalkeeper whose team tries
to score by playing into the mini-goals.
The attackers are trying to win the ball
and break to the big goal. The coach will
emphasise how he wants the team to press,
(e.g one forward must cut the supply to one
of the centre back while the other forward
allows the other one to receive the ball. The
forward then makes the play predictable and
shows the defender towards the fullback).
This is open to the coach’s ideas and will
vary based on formation and personnel.

Progressions:
Add more players until it includes a full
defensive and midfield unit for one team and
a front line and midfield unit for the other

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 2 - DEFENDING FROM THE FRONT

3. End Zone to
Big Goal Game
Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
2/3 field

Objective:
Players are split into two teams with a 10
yard endzone at the top of the field. Teams
play a directional game with the attacking
team playing to the big goal, with the
defending team trying to score by receiving
or dribbling the ball into the end zone.

Progressions:
1) Once you score in the endzone, teams
play in the opposite direction (if you want to
work both teams)
2) Only goals to the big goal count

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 2 - DEFENDING FROM THE FRONT

4. 3 Zone Defending
from the front

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
2/3 of a pitch

Objective:
Regular game, with the only rule being when
the game restarts, it must always start from
the goalkpeeper. If the attacking team is
able to retrieve the ball in the final third and
score, the goal counts double.

Progressions:
Freeplay for the last 10 mins of the session.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
Session 3

Playing Through
Midfield
U11 - 13
Session 3 - PLAYING THROUGH MIDFIELD

1. wave rondo 9v3

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
12x18

Objective:
9 v 3 possession rondo (keep away).
Objective is to keep the ball away from the 3
players in the middle, who chase the ball for
20 seconds. After 20 seconds a new group
of 3 go and hunt the ball. After all 3 groups
have been, swap over. Ensure that you apply
technical information to the rondo, e.g body
shape, playing to the correct foot, angle of
support, weight of pass etc.

Progressions:
1) Touch limits
2) 10 passes is a goal
3) Most interceptions in 1 minute wins.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 3 - PLAYING THROUGH MIDFIELD

2. target man game

Equipment:
Balls, cones

Size:
30x40 yards

Objective:
Players are split into two teams, with the
objective being to pass the ball into one
of the two target players at the top of the
field to score a goal. Once a goal is scored,
possession changes and the opposition try to
play into the target player.

Progressions:
1) Touch restrictions e.g. 2 touch per player
2) If you score at one end, keep the ball and
go the other way.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 3 - PLAYING THROUGH MIDFIELD

3. Supporting
from MF Drill
Equipment:
Balls, cones, big goals

Size:
Half Field x width of 18

Objective:
Players are split into two teams, with the
field spilt into 3 zones. Each team has one
defender and one attacker in the end zones,
with a 3v3 in the middle zone. Midfield
players can play into their striker and a
midfield player can join to make a 2v1.

Progressions:
1) 2 midfielders can join plus one recovering
midfielder to make it 2v3
2) One midfielder and one defender can
recover to make it a 2v2.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 3 - PLAYING THROUGH MIDFIELD

4. 3 - Zone Play
through Midfield

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
2/3 Pitch

Objective:
Regular game, but all restarts must come
from the goalkeeper. The goalkeeper cannot
play direct into the final third from the
first pass.

Progressions:
No restrictions.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
Session 4

1v1 Defending in
a Back Four Unit
U11 - 13
Session 4 - 1V1 DEFENDING IN A BACK FOUR UNIT

1. Positional Rondo

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
8x10

Objective:
5v2 possession rondo (keep away). Objective
is to keep the ball away from the players in
the middle. Ensure that you apply technical
information to the rondo, e.g body shape,
playing to the correct foot, angle of support,
weight of pass etc. Place the players in their
positions, e.g centre backs/ midfielders play
alongside each other at the base of the box,
wide players play on the long side of the box,
and defensive midfielders/ attacking midfielders/
forwards are at the top of the box to replicate
the positions they would play on the field.

Progressions:
1) Touch limits
2) 10 passes defenders stay in
3) Nutmeg stay in
4) Split pass through the two in the middle the
defenders stay in etc.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 4 - 1V1 DEFENDING IN A BACK FOUR UNIT

2. 4 Zone Defending
as a Unit
Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, mini-goals

Size:
40x30

Objective:
4 defenders try to defend the 4 mini goals
against 4 attackers, which are positioned
at the end of 4 zones. Each defender must
defend the goal in their zone, they can move
across the zones but use the zones as guides
to give them defensive orientation. Once the
attack has broken down, the next group of 4
attackers tries to score. Play offside to add
defensive realism.

Progressions:
1) Add an extra striker to make it a
5v4 overload
2) Give the teams a target e.g. attackers
cannot score in the next 10 balls

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 4 - 1V1 DEFENDING IN A BACK FOUR UNIT

3. Target Players SMALL

SIDED Game
Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
2/3 field

Objective:
Players are split into two teams with one big
goal and three target players at the top of
the field. Teams play a directional game with
the attacking team playing to the big goal,
with the defending team trying to score by
passing to the three targets players.

Progressions:
1) Once you score in the targets, teams play
in the opposite direction
2) Only goals to the big goal count

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 4 - 1V1 DEFENDING IN A BACK FOUR UNIT

4. 9v9 game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
2/3 of a field

Objective:
9v9 game. Players are split into two teams
playing a normal, directional game.

Progressions:
Set the team up in the formations that you
want for your team to play in
2) Have your second team set up how your
next opponent will play

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
Session 5

Combinations in
the Final Third
U11 - 13
Session 5 - COMBINATIONS IN THE FINAL THIRD

1. hornets drill

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, poles

Size:
20x20

Objective:
Player’s are split into 5 teams with 4, 10x10
grids in each corner and a small central
square in the middle. Player’s play 4v2
in one of the grids and make an allotted
number of passes (e.g 5 passes) before
transferring the ball into another grid. When
they do, the other two players try to retrieve
the ball.

Progressions:
1) Count number of transfers made
2) Count how long it takes to recover
10 balls
3) If one team gives the ball away they are
in the middle

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 5 - COMBINATIONS IN THE FINAL THIRD

2. Forward Movement
Pattern of Play
Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, mannequins, goals

Size:
Half Field

Objective:
Place a front three (or whichever front line
formation you prefer) in positions against a
back 3 or 4 represented by mannequins. In
each position, coach different movements
from the forwards e.g movement across
the front of the defender, movement off the
shoulder of the defender, ball down the side
of the centre back etc. Rotate the forwards
and midfield passers each time. Players then
finish 1v1 with the goalkeeper.

Progressions:
1) Add combinations with the forward unit
and finish
2) Make it a competition between the groups
e.g first group of forwards to score
5 goals wins.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 5 - COMBINATIONS IN THE FINAL THIRD

3. Forward Combination
Phase of Play
Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
Half field

Objective:
Set up a goalkeeper, back 3 and midfield 1
to play against a front 3 and midfield 2. The
game starts with the defending team turning
the ball over to the attacking team who play
to goal. The defenders defend the goal and
play to the counter goals if they retrieve
the ball.

Progressions:
1) Add midfield players/ defenders to make
it more realistic
2) Use a linesman to check for the timing of
the forwards movement

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 5 - COMBINATIONS IN THE FINAL THIRD

4. small sided game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
30x50 yards

Objective:
Players are split into two teams playing a
normal, directional game.

Progressions:
1) Touch restrictions eg 2 touch per player 2)
Must be a one touch finish
3) Everyone must be in the attacking half, if
not, the goal doesn’t count
4) Everyone must be back in your defensive
half otherwise it’s an extra goal for every
player who isn’t back.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
Session 6

Counter
Attacking
U11 - 13
Session 6 - COUNTER ATTACKING

1. Transitional Rondo

Equipment:
Balls, cones

Size:
8x10 box

Objective:
4v2 possession with one team aiming to
keep the ball away from the opponent, with
the other trying to regain possession. If the
defending team touches the ball, the two
defenders must quickly transition into the other
box to keep the ball, with two players from the
possession box becoming the defenders.

Progressions:
1) If you give the ball away, you and the
person who passed you the ball must transition
onto defense
2) Get a partner and if you or your partner
loses the ball you must transition into defense
3) Touch limitations
4) Add a neutral player to work in both boxes

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 6 - COUNTER ATTACKING

2. 2v1s

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
Penalty box

Objective:
Split the teams into two equal numbers.
Position two goals 20 yards apart. The game
starts by the attacking team (two players
either side of the posts) dribbling the ball
in to play 2v1 to goal. The game is finished
when there is either a goal or the ball goes
out of play. Once the team has attacked, one
player must stay in (last person to touch the
ball) to defend 1v2.

Progressions:
1) First team to 10 goals wins
2) Most goals in a time frame wins
3) If the defending team wins the ball and
scores it counts for 2 goals
4) Person who didn’t touch it last stays in

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 6 - COUNTER ATTACKING

3. Counter Attacking
Functional Practice
Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
Half Field

Objective:
The game starts by the defending team
turning the ball over to the attacking team,
and once they do, two players must run
around the cone and recover quickly to
defend while the attacking team counters to
goal. The play stops once there is a goal, or
the ball is out of play.

Progressions:
1) Only 1 player runs around the cone
2) Add more players until it becomes a
phase of play exercise.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 6 - COUNTER ATTACKING

4. 9v9 Conditioned Game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
2/3 of a field

Objective:
Players are split into two teams playing a normal,
directional game. The only rule is that if a player
misses the target, they must run around both
cones behind the opposition goal before re-
entering the field- can the opposition capitalize
on the overload

Progressions:
Play a regular game with no restrictions to finish.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
Session 7

Attacking in
Wide Areas
U11 - 13
Session 7 - ATTACKING IN WIDE AREAS

1. 4v2 rondo

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
8x10

Objective:
4v2 possession rondo (keep away).
Objective is to keep the ball away from the
players in the middle. Ensure that you apply
technical information to the rondo, e.g body
shape, playing to the correct foot, angle of
support, weight of pass etc.

Progressions:
1) Touch limits
2) 10 passes defenders stay in
3) Nutmeg stay in
4) Split pass through the two in the middle
the defenders stay in etc.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 7 - ATTACKING IN WIDE AREAS

2. Attacking wide areas

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
Half Field

Objective:
Spilt the teams playing in two thirds of the half field.
In this part of the field, play a centre back and right
back with a centre midfielder and right midfielder on
one team. They will be working on defending on one
side of the field. The opposition will play with a left-
winger and left back plus a centre forward and centre
midfielder. Defending team must stop the attacking
from scoring.

Progressions:
1) Work on 1v1 in wide areas
2) 2v1 overlap from the left back
3) 2v2 with the recovering right midfielder.
4) Movement from the forward into the wide channel
5) Movement of the central midfielder into the wide
channel.

If you can work on both sides of the field so you can

work on the right and left simultaneously then do so.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 7 - ATTACKING IN WIDE AREAS

3. wide zone game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
Half field

Objective:
Players are split into two teams with a 10
yard channel on both sides of the field.
Teams play a directional game with the
attacking team allowed to play 2v1 in the
wide area.

Progressions:
1) Goals direct from a cross count double 2)
Take out the wide channel but goals direct
from a cross count double still.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U11 - 13
Session 7 - ATTACKING IN WIDE AREAS

4. 9v9 Game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
2/3 of a field

Objective:
9v9 game. Players are split into two teams
playing a normal, directional game.

Progressions:
1)Set the team up in the formations that you
want for your team to play in
2) Have your second team set up how your
next opponent will play

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
 U11-13
U14-U17
KAYA FC ACADEMY SESSIONS
U14 - 17
Session 1

Attacking in
Wide Areas
U14 - U17
Session 1 - ATTACKING IN WIDE AREAS

1. hornets drill

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, poles

Size:
20x20

Objective:
Player’s are split into 5 teams with 4, 10x10
grids in each corner and a small central square
in the middle. Player’s play 4v2 in one of the
grids and make an allotted number of passes
(e.g 5 passes) before transferring the ball into
another grid. When they do, the other two
players try to retrieve the ball.

Progressions:
1) Count number of transfers made
2) Count how long it takes to recover 10 balls
3) If one team gives the ball away they are in
the middle

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 1 - ATTACKING IN WIDE AREAS

2. pattern of play

Equipment:
Balls, cones

Size:
2/3 field

Objective:
Set the team up in a formation of choice and
unopposed; build up from the back with specific
movement patterns culminating in a finish to goal.

Progressions:
Examples of movement 1) wide players moving
in-field and full-backs over-lapping 2) wide
players stay wide and full-back under-laps 3)
wide player comes in-field, number 10 player
occupies wide area 4) wide player comes in-
field, number 9 runs into the wide channel

If the move doesn’t end in a goal, players must

transition at full-speed into their start position

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 1 - ATTACKING IN WIDE AREAS

3. wide zone game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
Half field

Objective:
Players are split into two teams with a 10
yard channel on both sides of the field.
Teams play a directional game with the
attacking team allowed to play 2v1 in the
wide area.

Progressions:
1) Goals direct from a cross count double
2) Take out the wide channel but goals direct
from a cross count double still.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 1 - ATTACKING IN WIDE AREAS

4. 9v9 / 11v11 Game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
2/3 of a field

Objective:
9v9 or 11v11 game (numbers dependent).
Players are split into two teams playing a
normal, directional game. Coach stays in the
middle of the game and always serves the
ball in on restarts. Players must react to this
stimulus, as the coach should restart games
from wide areas as much as possible to
manipulate the game.

Progressions:
1)Set the team up in the formations that you
want for your team to play in
2) Have your second team set up how your
next opponent will play

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
Session 2

Beat the
Block
U14 - U17
Session 2 - BEAT THE BLOCK

1. Pass Through Game

Equipment:
Balls, cones

Size:
32x24 (8x24 per grid)

Objective:
Teams are split into two teams with 4 players
in each grid. Players must stay in their own
grid, with the team in possession aiming to
pass through to their team in between the
opposition, who are trying to intercept the
ball. If the opposition gains possession of the
ball, they will attempt to keep possession.
First team to make 10 passes wins. Passes
must be along the ground.

Progressions:
1) 1 Defender can step out of their zone to
intercept the ball
2) If defending get a touch on the ball, ball
changes hands
3) 1 attacker can drop in to receive the ball
4) Play with 2 balls

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 2 - BEAT THE BLOCK

2. Beat the Block Endzone

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
Half field

Objective:
As a functional practice, an attacking 5 try
to score by getting the ball in the endzone
beyond the penalty box. The attackers can
dribble, combine or receive the ball in the
zone to score.

Progressions:
1) Add both defensive and attacking
players to replicate both different opposition
structures as well as different ways in which
you can break the block

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 2 - BEAT THE BLOCK

3. Target Players
SMALL SIDED Game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
2/3 field

Objective:
Players are split into two teams with one big
goal and three target players at the top of
the field. Teams play a directional game with
the attacking team playing to the big goal,
with the defending team trying to score by
passing to the three targets players.

Progressions:
1) Once you score in the targets, teams play
in the opposite direction
2) Only goals to the big goal count

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 2 - BEAT THE BLOCK

4. 9v9 / 11v11 Game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
2/3 of a field

Objective:
9v9 or 11v11 game (numbers dependent).
Players are split into two teams playing a
normal, directional game. Coach stays in the
middle of the game and always serves the
ball in on restarts. Players must react to this
stimulus, as the coach should restart games
from wide areas as much as possible to
manipulate the game.

Progressions:
1)Set the team up in the formations that you
want for your team to play in
2) Have your second team set up how your
next opponent will play

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
Session 3

Coaching
Central Striking
U14 - U17
Session 3 - COACHING CENTRAL STRIKING

1. 4v2 rondo

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
8x10

Objective:
4v2 possession rondo (keep away).
Objective is to keep the ball away from the
players in the middle. Ensure that you apply
technical information to the rondo, e.g body
shape, playing to the correct foot, angle of
support, weight of pass etc.

Progressions:
1) Touch limits
2) 10 passes defenders stay in
3) Nutmeg stay in
4) Split pass through the two in the middle
the defenders stay in etc.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 3 - COACHING CENTRAL STRIKING

2. Big Goal - Counter

Goal Game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals, poles

Size:
Half field

Objective:
Players are split into two teams with one
team attacking the big goal, and the other
aiming to score by passing through the
three gates. The coach works on specific
movements they’re looking for from the
striker and how if effects their teammates
around them.

Progressions:
Add extra players to develop the exercises
and create different scenarios.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 3 - COACHING CENTRAL STRIKING

3. Wide Goals, Dribble

through Game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
Full field

Objective:
Players are split into two teams with teams
aiming to score by passing one touch through
the wide goals, or dribble through the central
gate for a 1v1 with the GK. When the ball
goes out, play restarts with the ball from the
center back who drops into the endzone and
restarts the game.

Progressions:
Goalkeeper must stay inside the penalty box

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 3 - COACHING CENTRAL STRIKING

4. 9v9 / 11v11 Game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
2/3 of a field

Objective:
9v9 or 11v11 game (numbers dependent).
Players are split into two teams playing a
normal, directional game. Coach stays in the
middle of the game and always serves the
ball in on restarts. Players must react to this
stimulus, as the coach should restart games
by giving possession to the attacking team as
much as possible to manipulate the game.

Progressions:
Set the team up in the formations that you
want for your team to play in 2) Have your
second team set up how your next opponent
will play

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
Session 4

Defending in
Midfield Zone
U14 - U17
Session 4 - DEFENDING IN MIDFIELD ZONE

1. Ukrainian Rondo

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
8x10 & 16x20 boxes

Objective:
4v2 possession-rondo keep away in the
middle box. If the opposition reclaims the
ball, the game becomes 6 or 7 v 4 in the
big box. The 2 players middle two must stay
inside the small box to link the play.

Progressions:
1) Touch limits
2) 10 passes defenders stay in
3) Nutmeg stay in
4) Split pass through the two in the middle
the defenders stay in etc.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 4 - DEFENDING IN MIDFIELD ZONE

2. simeone drill

Equipment:
Balls, cones, mini goals

Size:
20x24

Objective:
Split the field into 4 zones, and then halve
the field. The four players on one team try
to move the ball and find the 2 attackers
behind the defending 4, who must stay in
their zone and in their half, and try to deny
a penetration pass. If the pass goes through,
the 2 players try to score in the corner goals
and defenders must try to recover the ball. If
the pass is intercepted, they try to find their
2 attackers. 2 attackers can’t defend from
behind.

Progressions:
1) Ball can’t stay still
2) Touch restrictions e.g two touch maximum
3) Both strikers must touch the ball before
they can score

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 4 - DEFENDING IN MIDFIELD ZONE

3. Midfield Unit
Phase of Play
Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
1/2 field

Objective:
Phase of play exercise with your defence
and midfield units defending the big goal,
with an opposition forward line and midfield
unit against you. The objective is to deny the
attacking team opportunities to play through
the midfield zone, and when you win the
ball, transition by playing through the two
counter gates.

Progressions:
Manipulate the opponent formations and
give different scenarios to give the midfield
line different problems to solve.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 4 - DEFENDING IN MIDFIELD ZONE

4. 9v9 / 11v11 Game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
2/3 of a field

Objective:
9v9 or 11v11 game (numbers dependent).
Players are split into two teams playing a
normal, directional game. Coach stays in the
middle of the game and always serves the
ball in on restarts. Players must react to this
stimulus, as the coach should restart games
from the opponent back line so the midfield
can get organized effectively.

Progressions:
Play a regular game.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
Session 5

Defending When
Outnumbered
U14 - U17
Session 5 - DEFENDING WHEN OUTNUMBERED

1. counting by possession

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs

Size:
20x20

Objective:
Player’s are split into 2 teams. When the
coach serves in a ball, two defenders try to
retrieve the ball while the possession players
start to count the number of passes they have
made. If the ball is intercepted, the coach
serves to the other group and they start to
count the number of passes they make. The
first team to make 50 passes wins.

Progressions:
1) Once a team gets to over 40, (e.g they
make 45 passes but lose the ball) they start
again from 40.
2) The final pass must be caught by the
possession team.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 5 - DEFENDING WHEN OUTNUMBERED

2. Counter Attacking
Functional Practice
Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
Half Field

Objective:
The game starts by the defending team
turning the ball over to the attacking team,
and once they do, two players must run
around the cone and recover quickly to
defend while the attacking team counters to
goal. The play stops once there is a goal, or
the ball is out of play.

Progressions:
1) Only 1 player runs around the cone
2) Add more players until it becomes a
phase of play exercise.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 5 - DEFENDING WHEN OUTNUMBERED

3. Big goal to Endzone

while outnumbered
Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
2/3 field

Objective:
Players are split into two teams with a 10
yard endzone at the top of the field. Teams
play a directional game with the attacking
team playing to the big goal, with the
defending team trying to score by receiving
or dribbling the ball into the end zone. Once
the defending scores, the coach immediately
serves the next ball in before the player has
recovered. The defending team must defend
out of balance.

Progressions:
If you are working with two sets of defensive
units, if one team scores at one end, they turn
around and attack the big goal and observe
the defensive transition of the both teams.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 5 - DEFENDING WHEN OUTNUMBERED

4. 9v9 11v11 Game

(overloads)

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
2/3 of a field

Objective:
9v9 / 11v11 game (space dependent).
Players are split into two teams playing a
normal, directional game. Only rule is if a
player misses the goal when shooting, that
player must around all four corners of the
field before re-entering the game.

Progressions:
1) If the team scores when they have the
overload scenario, the goal counts double
2) Play a regular game.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
Session 6

Defending
Wide Areas
U14 - U17
Session 6 - DEFENDING WIDE AREAS

1. Transitional Rondo

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
8x10 x 2 boxes, 5m gap in between

Objective:
Split the group into 3 teams of 6. Two groups of
6 will occupy the two boxes while the other team
of 6 waits on the outside of the middle zone.
The coach will play a ball into a box where a
6v2 possession (keep away) takes place. The
objective is to keep the ball away from the
players in the middle and make 6 consecutive
passes before transferring the ball to the other
side. If that happens successfully, another two
players go in to defend the ball in the other
box. If the defending team forces a turnover in
possession, then the team that lost the ball is now
the defending team.

Progressions:
1) Touch limits
2) Time limits (most interceptions by one team in
90 seconds)
3) First team to 10 transfers wins etc.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 6 - DEFENDING WIDE AREAS

2. Defending wide areas

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
Half Field

Objective:
Spilt the teams playing in two thirds of the
field. In this part of the field, play a centre
back and right back with a centre midfielder
and right midflder on one team. They will
be working on defending on one side of the
field. The opposition will play with a left-
winger and left back plus a centre forward
and centre midfielder. Defending team must
stop the attacking from scoring.

Progressions:
1) Work on 1v1 in wide areas
2) 2v1 overlap from the left back
3) 2v2 with the recovering right midfielder.
Ensure you highlight the way in which you
want to defend e.g show inside / outside/
does the centre midfielder cover or does the
centre back come out etc.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 6 - DEFENDING WIDE AREAS

3. Endzone to
Big Goal Game
Equipment:
Balls, cones, goals

Size:
2/3 field

Objective:
Players are split into two teams with a 10
yard endzone at the top of the field. Teams
play a directional game with the attacking
team playing to the big goal, with the
defending team trying to score by receiving
or dribbling the ball into the end zone.
Defenders protect the big goal.

Progressions:
1) Start by defending as a back 4 and
defensive midfielder against a front 3,
midfield 3
2) Progress in numbers and add both
attacking and defending players to work with
the different units
3) Vary the formation the back line will play
against to give different problems to solve
e.g two strikers in a 4-4-2.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 6 - DEFENDING WIDE AREAS

4. 9v9 / 11v11 Game

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
2/3 of a field

Objective:
9v9 or 11v11 game (numbers dependent).
Players are split into two teams playing a
normal, directional game. Coach stays in the
middle of the game and always serves the
ball in on restarts. Players must react to this
stimulus, as the coach should restart games
from wide areas as much as possible to
manipulate the game.

Progressions:
Set the team up in the formations that you
want for your team to play in 2) Have your
second team set up how your next opponent
will play

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
Session 7

Winning in
Overload
Situations
U14 - U17
Session 7 - WINNING IN OVERLOAD SITUATIONS

1. wave rondo 9v3

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
12x18

Objective:
9 v 3 possession rondo (keep away).
Objective is to keep the ball away from the 3
players in the middle, who chase the ball for
20 seconds. After 20 seconds a new group
of 3 go and hunt the ball. After all 3 groups
have been, swap over. Ensure that you apply
technical information to the rondo, e.g body
shape, playing to the correct foot, angle of
support, weight of pass etc.

Progressions:
1) Touch limits
2) 10 passes is a goal
3) Most interceptions in 1 minute wins.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 7 - WINNING IN OVERLOAD SITUATIONS

2. 2v1s

Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
Penalty Box

Objective:
Split the teams into two equal numbers.
Position two goals 20 yards apart. The game
starts by the attacking team (two players
either side of the posts) dribbling the ball
in to play 2v1 to goal. The game is finished
when there is either a goal or the ball goes
out of play. Once the team has attacked, one
player must stay in (last person to touch the
ball) to defend 1v2.

Progressions:
1) First team to 10 goals wins
2) Most goals in a time frame wins
3) If the defending team wins the ball and
scores it counts for 2 goals
4) Person who didn’t touch it last stays in

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 7 - WINNING IN OVERLOAD SITUATIONS

3. 3v3 Plus
1 Wave Attacks
Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
55x30

Objective:
Set up 2, 25x30 yard zones with a 5-yard
middle zone through the middle. In each
zone teams play 3v3 plus an extra attacker,
with the attacking team playing to goal,
and the defending team trying to transition
to the middle zone. If the defending team
stops the opponent, they leave the defense
zone and the team in the middle zone attack
the 3 at the other end. If the attacking team
scores, the defending team must stay, and
the attacking team retreat back to the central
zone and can attack again once the other
attacking team has had their turn.

Progressions:
1) Time limits
2) First team to 3 goals wins

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans
U14 - U17
Session 7 - WINNING IN OVERLOAD SITUATIONS

4. 9v9/ 11v11 Game

(overloads)
Equipment:
Balls, cones, bibs, goals

Size:
2/3 of a field

Objective:
9v9 / 11v11 game (space dependent).
Players are split into two teams playing a
normal, directional game. Only rule is if a
player misses the goal when shooting, that
player must around all four corners of the
field before re-entering the game.

Progressions:
1) If the team scores when they have the
overload scenario, the goal counts double
2) Play a regular game.

Kaya
KAYA FC ACADEMY Session
[Link]
Plans