NSCAA Technical Exercises for Youth Players

Category: Product Reviews

SoccerPro contacted Sideline Soccer to review some of their numerous products! We decided to start with some soccer training DVDs, specifically a soccer technical exercise DVD for youth players by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA).

NSCAA Technical Exercises for Youth Players

This DVD is meant to help coaches train players between the ages of 13-15 covering Dribbling, Passing, Receiving, Heading, and Shooting. The running time of the DVD is approximately 80 minutes.

Each section begins with a warmup and then uses a progression of activities with the coach providing key points to both the players and you the coach.

This DVD is a great buy for coaches looking to develop technical skills and learn tactical concepts. Coaches can learn from numerous warmups, activities, field layouts, coaching instructions and corrections, and an emphasis on positive feedback and encouragement to players.

Here is a break down of what the DVD provides:

Dribbling

  • Warmup
  • 1v1, 2v2, and 5v5 Activities

Key Points

  • Change of pace
  • Change of direction
  • Make a move
  • Unbalance defender
  • Get into space behind defender
  • When defending, position yourself sideways to the defender with one foot forward
  • When defending, contain your opponent and do not lunge

Passing

  • Warmup
  • 4v2, 4v4v4, and 6v4 Activities

Key Points

  • Toe of passing foot pointed up with the ankle locked
  • Non-kicking foot pointed toward the target
  • Body over the ball
  • Follow through towards target
  • Be unpredictable
  • Communicate
  • Provide options to your teammate with the ball
  • Use short and long passes

Receiving

  • Warmup
  • 4v2, 4v4v4, 6v4 Activities

Key Points

  • Get in line with the ball
  • Think ahead prior to ball arriving
  • Present the body part being used to receive the ball
  • Cushion the ball like an egg
  • Prepare ball away from pressure or toward goal
  • Use two touches (one touch is more for passing)

Heading

  • Warmup
  • Heading Games

Key Points

  • Eyes open, mouth closed
  • Use forehead
  • Use arms for balance and power
  • Meet the ball and follow through

Shooting

  • Warmup
  • 2v2, 4v4, and 6v6 Activities

Key Points

  • Use laces
  • Lock ankle, toe pointed downward
  • Body and knee over the ball
  • Try to land on kicking foot if possible
  • Develop shooting mentality by allowing shots from anywhere

If you have bought this DVD, please let us know what you think by leaving your comments below!