U10-U12
Skill Development

THE SAINTS 5 RULES OF U10-U12 COACHING

1) Keep the ball rolling. Use small-sided activities so players get repeated involvement and decisions.

2) Develop the player, not a position. Give players opportunities to attack, defend and solve different football problems.

3) Coach what players see and decide, not only how they execute a technique.

4) Use brief interventions and questions. Let players discover solutions through the game.

5) Finish with football and allow uninterrupted periods where players can apply the session theme.

How to use each session

Sessions are designed for approximately 65–70 minutes. Adjust timings to suit your club training window.

Start with arrival football rather than waiting for the full squad.

Use the easier/harder options to suit different team levels while keeping the same development theme.

During opposed practices, avoid stopping every mistake. Coach recurring problems or particularly useful moments.

Use 3v3, 4v4 and 5v5 frequently; progress toward larger 7v7/9v9 pictures when numbers and space allow.

Recommended equipment

1 ball per player where possible

25–35 markers/cones

2–3 colours of bibs

2–4 mini goals and/or full-size goals where appropriate

Taller cones/poles if available

Goalkeeper gloves where applicable

U10–U12 TRAINING PROGRAM

Skill Development • 65–70 minutes

STARTING OUT
Week 1 — Own the Ball
Week 2 — Play Forward
Week 3 — Beat the Player
Week 4 — Pass With Purpose
Week 5 — Support the Ball

BUILDING SKILLS
Week 6 — Finish the Attack
Week 7 — Defend 1v1
Week 8 — Create the 2v1
Week 9 — Keep Possession
Week 10 — Mid-Season Festival

MORE FOOTBALL
Week 11 — Play Through
Week 12 — Play Wide, Attack Inside
Week 13 — Defend Together
Week 14 — Combine to Attack
Week 15 — Transition to Attack

FINISHING THE SEASON
Week 16 — Transition to Defend
Week 17 — Build From the Back
Week 18 — Create & Finish
Week 19 — Match Intelligence
Week 20 — Saints Football Festival