Channel Players # 4
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Basic Information
Age Group (8-11yrs) (12-15yrs) (16-Adult)
Number of Players 10+
Difficulty Medium-Hard
Time 20-30 min.
Emphasis: Possession, Passing, Attacking, Defending
Field Preparation:
- 2 teams
- grid (40yds x 50yds)
- channel area (6yds x 50yds)
- 2 goals with goalies
- cones to mark off area
- pinnies
- good supply of balls for continuous play
Description:
- all players must stay in their zone
- the goalkeeper and defenders must pass the ball to their channel player who crosses it in to the attackers
- channel players cannot be challenged
Variation:
- vary numbers in middle zones (play 3v2, 2v3 etc.)
- limit number of touches for channel players
- if a channel player has the ball allow the channel player in the opposite zone to enter the grid up to
- the far post
- channel players can be challenged in their zone as soon as they have possession
- adjust spacing depending on the age and ability of the group
Coaching Points:
- body mechanics and control of body
- body position and balance
- eye on ball
- quality of preparation touch
- contact surface
- aggressive and positive mentality
- vision and anticipation
- placement versus power
- positioning to gain an advantage
- accurate passing
- constant movement
- communication is vital
- good angle and distance of support to receive ball