U . S .

S O C C E R F E D E R A T I O N

P L A Y E R D E V E L OP M E N T
F R A ME W O R K
INTRODUCTION

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #1

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U.S. SOCCER PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

INTRODUCTION

The Player Development Framework contains the research on ages and stages of development, the players'
developmental goals, and the appropriate Game Model (Game Ideas, Principles, Sub-Principles, and Player Actions) for all
ages U13-U16. Think of the framework as a curriculum that provides answers to the question of, “What is important to
develop at this age/stage?” Clubs and coaches can use the framework in its entirety to understand how players may
progress as they move from age group to age group.

Within the framework, there are age-appropriate Learning Plans that combine research on the stages of development
with our U.S. Soccer identity. These Learning Plans include learning objectives as well as the Game Model (Game Idea and
Principles) that fit each stage as we strive to create fun and maximize development. Based on the players’ needs, a coach
can use the learning plan to better understand developmentally appropriate soccer beliefs around learning objectives,
training activities, and coaching.

All players develop at different rates and player development is not always linear. It is important to approach this
framework with a flexible mindset when viewing player development.​

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #2
U . S . S O C C E R F E D E R A T I O N

P L A Y E R D E V E L OP M E N T
F R A ME W O R K
PLAYER-CENTERED APPROACH

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #3
U.S. SOCCER PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

PLAYER-CENTERED APPROACH

WHO IS IN FRONT OF US?

A PLAYER-CENTERED APPROACH TO PLAYING THE GAME

FOCUS ON CREATING A DEVELOPMENTALLY APPROPRIATE TRAINING AND GAME ENVIRONMENT

Our starting point is that the PLAYER is the main actor, meaning that in everything we do we focus on the
individual player.

We aim to provide a highly individualized environment with an emphasis on the unique needs of each player. We
then create environments where we guide and support each player in maximizing his/her/their own potential.

All choices we make will have an impact on player development. While the game of soccer is a team game, we
still place a focus on individual development. Fun, development, and belonging are key pillars for a stimulating
soccer experience and are the basic needs for all players, regardless of age.

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #4
U.S. SOCCER PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

PLAYER-CENTERED APPROACH

BASIC NEEDS OF PLAYERS

FUN DEVELOPMENT BELONGING

BASIC NEEDS
Holistic approach to Development:
APPLY TO
Fun is the single largest predictor of sport Social Environments Built on:
commitment and sustained participation in • Physical • Positive Emotions (respect and value) ALL PLAYERS
childhood through adolescence. • Social • Inclusion
• Mental • Encouragement REGARDLESS OF
Fun is a need for everybody • Game Understanding • Safety
• All Ages • Technical Skills • Fairness AGE
• All Levels of Play
• All Levels of Talent Key aspects of a Development Process: Learning Environments:
• Experience • Are open and collaborative
Fun should be maintained throughout the • Reflection • Safe for players to be themselves and
different development stages. • Development share ideas
• Application • Encourage players to ask questions and
share solutions
• Freedom to make mistakes and learn
from them

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #5

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U.S. SOCCER PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

PLAYER-CENTERED APPROACH

DEVELOPMENT IS INDIVIDUAL
Although children all progress through the same stages of development, their
individual development is influenced by various factors, such as:
• Biological factors: gender, genes, …

• Psychological factors: levels of stress, motivation, ….

• Cultural/Educational/Social Factors: Culture, parents, friends, …

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #6
U.S. SOCCER PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

PLAYER-CENTERED APPROACH

WHO IS IN FRONT OF US?

A PLAYER-CENTERED APPROACH TO PLAYING THE GAME
CHILD DEVELOPMENT AS THE STARTING POINT TO CREATE THE SOCCER ENVIRONMENT

WHO ARE THE PLAYERS?

HOW ARE THEY AFFECTED BY THE WORLD AROUND THEM?
WHAT ARE THEY ABLE TO UNDERSTAND?
WHAT ARE THEY ABLE TO LEARN?
WHAT TASKS CAN THEY EXECUTE?

STRIVE TO UNDERSTAND WHO THE PLAYERS ARE AND WHAT THEY NEED

CHILD DEVELOPMENT GUIDES OUR DECISIONS IN PLAYER DEVELPOMENT

ADJUST THE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT & THE LEARNING PROCESS TO THE PLAYERS’ NEEDS

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #7
U.S. SOCCER PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

PLAYER-CENTERED APPROACH

“FUN, DEVELOPMENT, AND BELONGING

AS KEY PILLARS
FOR A STIMULATING SOCCER EXPERIENCE”

THERE ARE FOUR MAIN CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LEARNING

ENVIRONMENT THAT WE WANT TO USE TO FOCUS ON INDIVIDUAL
DEVELOPMENT:

FUN
DIGNITY & RESPECT
SAFETY
DEVELOPMENT

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #8
FOCUS ON INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT
CREATE A POSITIVE, SUPPORTIVE AND CHALLENGING LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

FUN DIGNITY & RESPECT SAFETY DEVELOPMENT

ALL PLAYERS:
ALL PLAYERS: ALL PLAYERS: ALL PLAYERS :
• PLAY IN PHYSICALLY SAFE
• PLAY A LOT OF GAMES DURING • HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPRESS • EXPERIENCE THE APPROPRIATE LEVEL
CONDITIONS
PRACTICE THAT INVOLVE THE BALL THEMSELVES AND ARE LISTENED TO OF CHALLENGE IN TRAINING AND
AND SCORING OPPORTUNITIES • ARE FREE FROM INTIMIDATION, COMPETITION
• ARE TREATED FAIRLY AND ENCOURAGED
HARASSMENT, AND BULLYING
• ENJOY THEMSELVES WITH OTHERS BY THE COACH • ARE CHALLENGED TO MAKE OWN
AND CELEBRATE SUCCESS • PLAY WITHOUT BEING UNDER DECISIONS, TAKE INITIATIVE AND BE
• ARE SUPPORTED BY THE PARENTS
PRESSURE TO GET RESULTS RESPONSIBLE
• TAKE ACTIVE PART IN EACH GAME & PLAY
AT LEAST 50% OF THE TIME • LEARN & IMPROVE THEIR SOCCER
SKILLS
• LEARN TO RESPECT RULES (LAWS OF THE
GAME- FAIRPLAY) • RECEIVE CONSTRUCTIVE FEEDBACK
• LEARN TO RESPECT OTHERS (FAIR AND • EFFORTS ARE VALUED (BUILD SELF-
HONEST TREATMENT OF PEOPLE) ESTEEM)
• LEARN TO COLLABORATE AS
TEAMMATES
• BUILD RELATIONSHIPS

CREATE A CULTURE OF BELONGING

ALL PLAYERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO PARTICIPATE, GIVE THEIR BEST, AND HAVE FUN
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U . S . S O C C E R F E D E R A T I O N

P L A Y E R D E V E L OP M E N T
F R A ME W O R K
STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #10
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT

INTRODUCTION

Children progress through various stages of growth and development. At any stage, social, emotional, physical and cognitive characteristics
affect the players’ soccer experience and the learning process.

It is important for coaches to understand how children grow and develop by looking at growth and development through these different
lenses to promote holistic child development.

Coaches must be able to create a player-centered, developmentally appropriate learning environment. A learning plan must first take the
players’ developmental needs as a starting point to help them become confident learners.

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #11
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT

INTRODUCTION

Children progress through various stages of development:

INFANCY CHILDHOOD ADOLESCENCE ADULTHOOD

Substages exist

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #12
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT

AT EACH STAGE OF DEVELOPMENT

A CHILD IS LEARNING IN SEVERAL AREAS AT THE SAME TIME

SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LANGUAGE COGNITIVE PHYSICAL

DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #13
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT

AREAS OF DEVELOPMENT: SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

• The ability to build relationships

• The process of gaining knowledge and skills needed to interact successfully with
others

SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LANGUAGE COGNITIVE PHYSICAL

DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #14
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT

AREAS OF DEVELOPMENT: EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT

• The ability to master feelings and emotional responses to events

• The process of gaining knowledge and skills for self-reflection, self-awareness, self-
management, and self-development

SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LANGUAGE COGNITIVE PHYSICAL

DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #15
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT

AREAS OF DEVELOPMENT: LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT

• The ability to understand language

• The ability to verbally express yourself

SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LANGUAGE COGNITIVE PHYSICAL

DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #16
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT

AREAS OF DEVELOPMENT: COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT

• The ability to think and learn

• The ability to identify and solve problems (decision-making)

• How a player perceives and gains understanding

• Conceptualization
• Perception
• Information processing

SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LANGUAGE COGNITIVE PHYSICAL

DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #17
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT

AREAS OF DEVELOPMENT: PHYSICAL (BIOLOGICAL) DEVELOPMENT

• The physical maturity of the body, the changes in size and shape, physical abilities
and coordination (CNS)

- Gross motor skill development: the child’s ability to use large muscles

- Fine motor skill development: the child’s ability to use small muscles

SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LANGUAGE COGNITIVE PHYSICAL

DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #18
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT

DEVELOPMENT IS INDIVIDUAL
Although children all progress through the same stages of development, their
individual development is influenced by various factors, such as:
• Biological factors: gender, genes, …

• Psychological factors: levels of stress, motivation, ….

• Cultural/Educational/Social Factors: culture, parents, friends, …

• ….

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #19

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U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT

WHO IS IN FRONT OF US?

A PLAYER-CENTERED APPROACH TO PLAYING THE GAME
CHILD DEVELOPMENT AS STARTING POINT TO CREATE THE SOCCER ENVIRONMENT

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #20

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U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT

CHILD DEVELOPMENT GUIDES OUR DECISIONS IN PLAYER DEVELPOMENT

ADJUST THE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT & THE LEARNING PROCESS TO THE PLAYERS’ NEEDS

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #21

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U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT

WHO ARE THE PLAYERS?

HOW ARE THEY AFFECTED BY THE WORLD AROUND THEM?
WHAT ARE THEY ABLE TO UNDERSTAND?
WHAT ARE THEY ABLE TO LEARN?
WHAT TASKS CAN THEY EXECUTE?

STRIVE TO UNDERSTAND WHO THE PLAYERS ARE AND WHAT THEY NEED

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #22

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DEVELOPMENTAL STAGES
B-U5 B-U6 B-U7 B-U8 B-U9 B-U10 B-U11 B-U12 B-U13 B-U14 B-U15 B-U16 B-U17 B-U18
G-U5 G-U6 G-U7 G-U8 G-U9 G-U10 G-U11 G-U12 G-U13 G-U14 G-U15 G-U16 G-U17 G-U18
AGE SOCIAL CHARACTERISTICS EMOTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS COGNITIVE CHARACTERISTICS PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
• Transitioning to a new, unknown social environment • Sensitive about their appearance • They can form abstractions and generalizations that apply • Rapid growth leads to increases in height, weight, and
(middle school to high school at U14) • May exhibit strong mood swings (struggle with impulse across different situations (i.e., justice, equality, etc.) visible physical changes (increase in muscles mass and body
• Start asserting individuality and establishing their own control and lack emotional maturity) • Can use their own reasoning to move beyond the fat)
identity which may lead to conflict with authority; may • Focused on direct satisfaction of one’s needs and are information given and form conclusions and their own • Will have different rates of neuromuscular strength, height,
U13 be critical of parents and other authority figures opportunistic. They are still impulsive and can often react opinions (not everything is accepted unthinkingly) and weight changes
• Unsure about their place in society and are heavily too quickly because they don’t see all consequences • Begin to be mature enough to take responsibility for their • May exhibit adolescent awkwardness as a result of rapid
dependent on a peer group/best friend • May feel anxious or sad and sometimes worried because own commitment level changes (injury rates tend to increase during this stage due
• Can experience conflict between the need to be an they are not able to see all the potential outcomes • Can plan ahead and organize tasks with little to no to physical changes-ankle sprains, tendonitis,
individual while also fitting in with the group • Vulnerable to peer pressure guidance from adults patellofemoral pain, pain at tendon insertions-Osgood-
• In addition to being influenced by friends, are also • May feel embarrassed if parents are around them in social • They can start to pursue gaining expert knowledge in Schlatters, and Sever’s Disease)
influenced by pop culture, sports culture, and social settings some domains inside or outside school, and began to • In general, early maturing females who have began the
media • May begin to be more aware of physical changes and develop an identity around that domain (i.e., ‘the artist’, adolescent growth spurt have been on a slow, steady
• Males may be more concerned about play/game and sexuality particularly in comparison to their peers (early ‘the midfielder’, etc.) growth spurt compared to early maturing males who may
females may be more concerned about the social vs. late maturing individuals) • Have sense of respect for their sport and can begin to experience a much more accelerated growth spurt
U14 interaction • Females may exhibit more fear of exclusion make commitments (either in performance or • The culmination of physical changes plus the start of
• Males may show more assertiveness and may exhibit an (bullying/social media impact) participation) menstrual cycle predisposes females to injuries
inner urge to measure and compare oneself to others • Incidents of depression increases after puberty. Females • Due to hormone changes caused by the menstrual cycle,
• Females may be a little bit more ahead and more mature show higher rates than males females may experience increased joint laxity (looseness)
in their behavior (more disciplined, less impulsive) • Females may show Increased hip width
• Females may often underestimate their own abilities • Females may exhibit a reliance on quad landing strategies
• Are more comfortable navigating within their social • Still have strong emotions and quick mood swings but are • Pre-frontal cortex continues to develop executive • Continue to experience effects of rapid growth, increases in
setting (school) while still learning to adapt and conform better equipped to recognize and control them functioning: height and weight, as well as increases in muscle mass and
to rules of the peer group • Begin to question who they are and what they should do • Develop coordination of attention with memory body fat
• Develop a stronger sense of self and rely less on the with their lives. Frequently ask the question “Why?” and and the control of behavioral responses and • Essential to monitor body alignment (i.e., ankles, knees,
opinions of others (older teens resist peer pressure this will challenge self-regulation skills abstract thought hips, shoulders, and vertebrae), muscle balance (triceps and
U15 better than younger teens) • Can handle constructive/unsolicited feedback • Develop deeper moral reasoning and think about biceps, quadriceps and hamstrings), and flexibility
• Although still strongly influenced by peers they continue • Can develop emotional skills to resist social pressure, the meaning of life • May have increased hormone levels as their bodies are now
to be more assertive and separate themselves from however their emotions may be susceptible to • Still a little bit self-centered because they have naturally producing testosterone & estrogen
parents/guardians/authority figures. They start to form reactions/interactions made in the digital world/social not yet fully learned to correctly assess the -These hormones impact training responses in physical
their own opinion on important topics media intentions of others qualities, such as strength, power, speed and endurance
• May struggle with authority figures and boundaries than • Start to develop empathy. Are more open to the fact that • May hold a belief that their experiences are • With these changes in the body the female movement
have been set by adults. Parents are often viewed as others can also have their own intentions and emotions, unique and different from those of everyone else competencies change and can lead to injury (especially in
interfering with a teen’s independence. however, they cannot always interpret them correctly • Have a greater capacity for setting goals than previous the knee, hip and ankle joints)
• Compare/measure self to others and might be pre- • Emotional value of contact with peers increases and they stages. Become better at everyday planning and decision • Height increases continue in males (beginning to reach their
occupied with personal appearance may become emotionally attached to a romantic interest making, especially concerning practice and competition peak in physical growth), whereas females are usually
• Develop individual relationships and can exhibit more • Extremely sensitive for rewards and can be focused on • They are learning to deal with abstract tasks like finished growing and may add some weight
interest in intimacy/romantic relationships new sensations (leads to risky behavior) anticipating long-term events/decisions and judging • As muscle mass increases in males, so does body
• Proving oneself is an enormous motivation for players at • May have emotional side effects brought on by puberty potential consequences satisfaction. However, many teenage girls become
this age (especially males). same in U17 including emotional fragility, insensitivity, unreasonable • Lack ability to fully make complex decisions with several dissatisfied with their bodies and weight due to the increase
U16 • May show a fanatical attitude that often creates conflict behavior and bad moods occur in both males and females alternatives which can lead to making more impulsive and in body fat. Some teens may even resort to eating disorders
with teammates and opponents (especially males) same dangerous decisions than adults to feel better about their bodies
in U17 • Evolving hormone systems (including stress hormones)
can have a major effect on the brain and behavior
• Dealing with more factors that can affect concentration
such as spectators, opponent interactions, and pressure
to perform on demand. Negative self-talk can disrupt
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U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PHASES OF DEVELOPMENT: PROGRESSION

P
L G U13-U14: PROGRESSION PHASE I: SCANNING & POSITIONING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, QUICK COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING
A A • Players develop scanning skills (ME AND MY SCANNING SKILLS)
Y M • Players develop fundamental movement skills (ME AND MY MOVEMENT SKILLS)
E E • Players continue to develop fundamental soccer skills with and without the ball under a high level of pressure (ME AND THE BALL)
• Players develop high structured team play based on a style of play (ME AND MY TEAMMATES)
R
D U15-U16: PROGRESSION PHASE II: SCANNING & POSITIONING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, QUICK COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING
D E • Players develop scanning skills (ME AND MY SCANNING SKILLS)
E V • Players develop fundamental movement skills (ME AND MY MOVEMENT SKILLS)
V E • Players develop specific soccer skills based on a positional profile (ME AND THE BALL)
E L • Players develop high structured team play based on a style of play (ME AND MY TEAMMATES)
L O
U17-U18: PROGRESSION PHASE III: SCANNING & POSITIONING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, QUICK COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING
O P
• Players develop scanning skills (ME AND MY SCANNING SKILLS)
P M • Players develop fundamental movement skills (ME AND MY MOVEMENT SKILLS)
M E • Players develop high structured team play based on a style of play and game plan (ME AND MY TEAMMATES)
E N • Players continue to develop specific soccer skills based on a positional profile and a highly individualized approach (ME AND MY PERSONAL
N T DEVELOPMENT)
• Players can develop by being integrated at the senior level (ME AND MY CAREER)
T

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #24

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U . S . S O C C E R F E D E R A T I O N

P L A Y E R D E V E L OP M E N T
F R A ME W O R K
GAME FORMAT

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #25
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

THE GAME & DEVELOPMENT

WE WANT CHILDREN TO PLAY GAMES IN AN APPROPRIATE ENVIRONMENT

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #26
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

THE GAME & DEVELOPMENT

WE NEED SPECIFIC GAME FORMATS FOR EACH AGE, FORMATS THAT MEET THE NEEDS
AND CHALLENGES OF CHILDREN, TO MAXIMIZE ENJOYMENT AND STIMULATE
CREATITIVY BASED ON THE AGE CHARACTERISTICS

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #27

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U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

GAME FORMAT

FORMATS MUST ALLOW FOR OPTIMAL DEVELOPMENT AND HAVING FUN WHILE PLAYING

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #28

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U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

GAME FORMAT

PUTTING FUN A ND THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE PLAYERS FIRST

ASK CHILDREN WHAT THEY LIKE ABOUT THE GAME
EMBRACE THE PERSPECTIVE OF THE PLAYER

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #29

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GAME FORMAT

PUTTING FUN A ND THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE PLAYERS FIRST

GAMES WITH LESS PLAYERS POSITIVELY IMPACT ENJOYMENT

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #30

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GAME FORMAT

AP PROP RIATE CHALLEN G E

SMALL SIDED GAMES
MORE FUN & ENHANCED DEVELOPMENT

PARTICIPATION AND SUCCESS AS MOTIVATIONAL FACTORS

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #31

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GAME FORMAT

AP PROP RIATE CHALLEN G E

SMALL SIDED GAMES
MORE FUN & ENHANCED DEVELOPMENT

MORE ENGAGEMENT

MORE PLAYER ACTIONS

MORE DECISIONS

MORE GOALS

MORE SUPPORT

MORE SMILES

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #32

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U . S . S O C C E R F E D E R A T I O N

P L A Y E R D E V E L OP M E N T
F R A ME W O R K
GAME FORMATION

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #33

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GAME FORMATION

WHO IS IN FRONT OF US?

A PLAYER-CENTERED APPROACH TO PLAYING THE GAME
FOCUS ON CREATING A DEVELOPMENTALLY APPROPRIATE GAME ENVIRONMENT

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #34

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GAME FORMATION

WHAT IS IMPORTANT TO DEVELOP AT THIS AGE?

HOW DOES THE GAME FORMATION IMPACT DEVELOPMENT ?
HOW DOES THE GAME FORMATION IMPACT FUN?

STRIVE TO CREATE FUN AND MAXIMIZE DEVELOPMENT

CHOICES AND IMPACT

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #35

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GAME FORMATION

1V1 AS A CENTRAL CONCEPT

MORE FOCUS ON INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT

PARTICIPATION AND SUCCESS AS MOTIVATIONAL FACTORS

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #36

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GAME FORMATION

INTRODUCTION TO FORMATIONS

• The formation is the way we provide a starting structure to the team.

• A formation provides how we line up, gives each player a position, and connects players on the field
without the specific context of a game moment or game situation.

• A formation exists of different lines.

• Many different variations exist.

• The formation in which a team is playing doesn’t necessarily say something about the intentions of the
team.

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #37

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GAME FORMATION

4v4 7v7 9v9 11v11

U7-U8 U9-U10 U11-U12 U13+

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #38
U . S . S O C C E R F E D E R A T I O N

P L A Y E R D E V E L OP M E N T
F R A ME W O R K
U13-U14
(11V11) LEARNING PLAN
U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #39
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U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

LEARNING PLAN

PLAN FOR LEARNING

WHAT WILL PROMOTE APPROPRIATE DEVELOPMENT?
WHAT DO WE TEACH?
HOW DO WE TEACH?
WHEN DO WE TEACH IT?

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #40

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U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER-CENTERED

WHO IS IN FRONT OF US?

A PLAYER-CENTERED APPROACH TO PLAYING THE GAME
FOCUS ON CREATING A DEVELOPMENTALLY APPROPRIATE LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #41
DEVELOPMENTAL STAGE: ADOLESCENCE

B-U5 B-U6 B-U7 B-U8 B-U9 B-U10 B-U11 B-U12 B-U13 B-U14 B-U15 B-U16 B-U17 B-U18

G-U5 G-U6 G-U7 G-U8 G-U9 G-U10 G-U11 G-U12 G-U13 G-U14 G-U15 G-U16 G-U17 G-U18

GAME FORMAT:
SOCIAL CHARACTERISTICS EMOTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS COGNITIVE CHARACTERISTICS PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
11v11
• Transitioning to a new, unknown social environment (middle school • Sensitive about their appearance • They can form abstractions and generalizations that apply across different situations • Rapid growth leads to increases in height, weight, and visible physical
to high school at U14) • May exhibit strong mood swings (struggle with impulse control and lack (i.e., justice, equality, etc.) changes (increase in muscles mass and body fat)
• Start asserting individuality and establishing their own identity emotional maturity) • Can use their own reasoning to move beyond the information given and form • Will have different rates of neuromuscular strength, height, and
which may lead to conflict with authority; may be critical of parents • Focused on direct satisfaction of one’s needs and are opportunistic. They are conclusions and their own opinions (not everything is accepted unthinkingly) weight changes
and other authority figures still impulsive and can often react too quickly because they don’t see all • Begin to be mature enough to take responsibility for their own commitment level • May exhibit adolescent awkwardness as a result of rapid changes
• Unsure about their place in society and are heavily dependent on a consequences • Can plan ahead and organize tasks with little to no guidance from adults (injury rates tend to increase during this stage due to physical
peer group/best friend • May feel anxious or sad and sometimes worried because they are not able to • They can start to pursue gaining expert knowledge in some domains inside or outside changes-ankle sprains, tendonitis, patellofemoral pain, pain at tendon
• Can experience conflict between the need to be an individual while see all the potential outcomes school, and began to develop an identity around that domain (i.e., ‘the artist’, ‘the insertions-Osgood-Schlatters, and Sever’s Disease)
U13 also fitting in with the group • Vulnerable to peer pressure midfielder’, etc.) • In general, early maturing females who have began the adolescent
In addition to being influenced by friends, are also influenced by May feel embarrassed if parents are around them in social settings Have sense of respect for their sport and can begin to make commitments (either in growth spurt have been on a slow, steady growth spurt compared to
U14 •
pop culture, sports culture, and social media
•
• May begin to be more aware of physical changes and sexuality particularly in
•
performance or participation) early maturing males who may experience a much more accelerated
• Males may be more concerned about play/game and females may comparison to their peers (early vs. late maturing individuals) growth spurt
be more concerned about the social interaction • Females may exhibit more fear of exclusion (bullying/social media impact) • The culmination of physical changes plus the start of menstrual cycle
• Males may show more assertiveness and may exhibit an inner urge • Incidents of depression increases after puberty. Females show higher rates predisposes females to injuries
to measure and compare oneself to others than males • Due to hormone changes caused by the menstrual cycle, females may
• Females may be a little bit more ahead and more mature in their experience increased joint laxity (looseness)
behavior (more disciplined, less impulsive) • Females may show Increased hip width
• Females may often underestimate their own abilities • Females may exhibit a reliance on quad landing strategies

PROGRESSION PHASE I

SCANNING & POSITIONING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, QUICK COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING
GOALS
• Players develop scanning skills (ME AND MY SCANNING SKILLS)
• Players develop fundamental movement skills (ME AND MY MOVEMENT SKILLS)
• Players continue to develop fundamental soccer skills with and without the ball under a high level of pressure (ME AND THE BALL)
• Players develop high structured team play based on a style of play (ME AND MY TEAMMATES)
LEARNING ENVIRONMENT: OBJECTIVES
• To understand injury prevention methods and techniques • To develop more complex player actions with a focus on quick combination play (pace and • To develop a deeper understanding of responsibilities of players off the ball
• To continue to develop more complex movement skills with an emphasis on multi-lateral development fluidity) under high pressure in tight spaces • To develop player ownership and independence:
-maintain and enhance flexibility, strength, power, agility and mobility • To develop the understanding and execution of overload situations in attacking and defending -including a player-led warm-up routine
• To develop reaction speed and acceleration speed: focus on accelerations and deceleration • To apply team principles in attacking, defending and transition moments: utilize a Style of Play
-player to player coaching (using verbal and non-verbal communication)
• To develop a systematic approach to solving game situations (collaboration) as a structure for decision-making
• To develop coordinated movements with groups of teammates: including increased spatial awareness and • To develop self-efficacy, self-reflection and self-regulation skills
-play in a formation with roles and responsibilities:
interchange of roles during play • To develop teamwork: group discussion and reflection skills
-focus on anticipation and support
-midfield interchange (rotations)
-penetrations by center backs (dribble with the ball to create numerical overload in midfield)

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT: ACTIVITIES

• Utilize a variety of activities that help develop the U.S. Soccer Key Qualities • Focus on decision-making through GAMES (learning through highly structured play that allows for players’ choice)
• Activities should be flexible enough to allow for individual differences concerning the growth spurt -utilize inclusionary small sided games: 1v1 → 11v11 (based on roster size and including use of unbalanced games)
-activities should be flexible to allow for the workload placed on individuals • Use of positional games (rondos)
• Activities can still be formed around deliberate PLAY with the ball (one player - one ball), but should now focus on small group and team play • Use of activities over both short and long distances to develop different player actions
-utilize specific training session goals(team tactical principles, sub-principles, and player actions)

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT: COACHING

• Promote individuality within the team setting
• Be supportive, challenge appropriately, and prevent/manage conflict • Continue to be aware of individual differences (especially between boys and girls) in maturation as some players will have al ready completed their growth spurt.
• Educate players and provide autonomy for them to lead different activities including injury prevention routines -be aware of early and late developers and help players not compare themselves to others
• Control workload to help prevent injury (as bodies continue to grow) • Be wary of verbal comparisons and- or over criticizing (also within player-to-player interactions both on and off the field including social media)
-help players understand the difference between “being hurt” and ”being injured” -maintain zero tolerance for bullying
-coordinate with any other medical professionals or sport coaches • Acknowledge frustrations and disappointment and help them develop coping strategies

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #42

• Encourage and support playing and development in multiple roles and positions throughout the season • Empower players to resolve conflict
• Encourage collaboration: a coach can expect his or her players to understand the game, anticipate problems and use teammates to solve them • Incorporate routines and moderate-level of structure
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-promote playersCONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared
to ask questions and provide without
input and U.S.
feedback to Soccer approval
each other • Understand the different means of engaging players and when to guide versus when to command/instruct (use different types of questions (higher order questions) to engage players)
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

GAME FORMATION

4v4 7v7 9v9 11v11

U7-U8 U9-U10 U11-U12 U13+

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #43
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER-CENTERED: THE PLAYER

11v11 U13 - U14
SOCIAL

• Transitioning to a new, unknown social environment (middle school to

high school at U14)
• Start asserting individuality and establishing their own identity which may
lead to conflict with authority; may be critical of parents and other
authority figures
• Unsure about their place in society and are heavily dependent on a peer
group/best friend
• Can experience conflict between the need to be an individual while also
fitting in with the group
• In addition to being influenced by friends, are also influenced by pop
culture, sports culture, and social media
• Males may be more concerned about play/game and females may be
more concerned about the social interaction
• Males may show more assertiveness and may exhibit an inner urge to
measure and compare oneself to others
• Females may be a little bit more ahead and more mature in their
behavior (more disciplined, less impulsive)
• Females may often underestimate their own abilities

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #44

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U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER-CENTERED: THE PLAYER

11v11 U13 - U14
EMOTIONAL

• Sensitive about their appearance

• May exhibit strong mood swings (struggle with impulse control and lack
emotional maturity)
• Focused on direct satisfaction of one’s needs and are opportunistic. They
are still impulsive and can often react too quickly because they don’t see all
consequences
• May feel anxious or sad and sometimes worried because they are not able
to see all the potential outcomes
• Vulnerable to peer pressure
• May feel embarrassed if parents are around them in social settings
• May begin to be more aware of physical changes and sexuality particularly
in comparison to their peers (early vs. late maturing individuals)
• Females may exhibit more fear of exclusion (bullying/social media impact)
• Incidents of depression increases after puberty. Females show higher rates
than males

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #45

© 2023 U.S. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared without U.S. Soccer approval
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER-CENTERED: THE PLAYER

11v11 U13 - U14
COGNITIVE

• They can form abstractions and generalizations that apply across different
situations (i.e., justice, equality, etc.)
• Can use their own reasoning to move beyond the information given and
form conclusions and their own opinions (not everything is accepted
unthinkingly)
• Begin to be mature enough to take responsibility for their own
commitment level
• Can plan ahead and organize tasks with little to no guidance from adults
• They can start to pursue gaining expert knowledge in some domains inside
or outside school, and began to develop an identity around that domain
(i.e., ‘the artist’, ‘the midfielder’, etc.)
• Have sense of respect for their sport and can begin to make commitments
(either in performance or participation)

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #46

© 2023 U.S. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared without U.S. Soccer approval
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER-CENTERED: THE PLAYER

11v11 U13 - U14
PHYSICAL

• Rapid growth leads to increases in height, weight, and visible physical

changes (increase in muscles mass and body fat)
• Will have different rates of neuromuscular strength, height, and weight
changes
• May exhibit adolescent awkwardness as a result of rapid changes (injury
rates tend to increase during this stage due to physical changes-ankle
sprains, tendonitis, patellofemoral pain, pain at tendon insertions-Osgood-
Schlatters, and Sever’s Disease)
• In general, early maturing females who have began the adolescent growth
spurt have been on a slow, steady growth spurt compared to early
maturing males who may experience a much more accelerated growth
spurt
• The culmination of physical changes plus the start of menstrual cycle
predisposes females to injuries
• Due to hormone changes caused by the menstrual cycle, females may
experience increased joint laxity (looseness)
• Females may show Increased hip width
• Females may exhibit a reliance on quad landing strategies

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #47

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U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

WHAT CAN WE DEVELOP?

A PLAYER-CENTERED APPROACH TO PLAYING THE GAME
FOCUS ON CREATING A DEVELOPMENTALLY APPROPRIATE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #48

© 2023 U.S. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared without U.S. Soccer approval
PLAYER DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES
4V4 STANDARDS- GAMES

BALL GOALKEEPER NO HEADING TIME

4 Quarters (no longer than 10

Size 3 ball Not permitted Not permitted min.) 5 min. break bn quarters

FIELD SHIN GUARDS PENALTIES START/RESTART PLAY

Kick offs, free kicks, throw-ins,

25-35 yards (length). 15-25 yards goal kicks and corner kicks are
(width). No corner flags needed Shin guards Required No penalty kicks. No offside used to start or restart play

GOALS REFEREES FREE KICKS KICK-IN/DRIBBLE-IN

Registered referees are not Kick-ins and/or dribble-ins are

needed at this level (coaches If used, all free kicks are indirect. also acceptable as restarts
Goals should be no larger than are expected to manage the Opponents should be 10 feet when the ball has gone out
4 feet (height) x 6 feet (width) game environment away from the ball on all restarts over the sidelines
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U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

11v11 U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND
FINISHING

Soccer Development
GOALS
• Players develop scanning skills (ME AND MY SCANNING SKILLS)
• Players develop fundamental movement skills (ME AND MY MOVEMENT SKILLS)
• Players continue to develop fundamental soccer skills with and without the ball under a high level
of pressure (ME AND THE BALL)
• Players develop high structured team play based on a style of play (ME AND MY TEAMMATES)

Learning objectives
• To understand injury prevention methods and techniques
• To continue to develop more complex movement skills with an emphasis on multi-lateral development:
maintain and enhance flexibility, strength, power, agility and mobility
• To develop reaction speed and acceleration speed: focus on accelerations and deceleration
• To develop a systematic approach to solving game situations (collaboration)
• To develop coordinated movements with groups of teammates: including increased spatial awareness and
interchange of roles during play
-midfield interchange (rotations)
-penetrations by center backs (dribble with the ball to create numerical overload in midfield)
• To develop more complex player actions with a focus on quick combination play (pace and fluidity) under
high pressure in tight spaces
• To develop the understanding and execution of overload situations in attacking and defending
• To apply team principles in attacking, defending and transition moments: utilize a Style of Play as a structure
for decision-making
-play in a formation with roles and responsibilities:
-focus on anticipation and support
• To develop a deeper understanding of responsibilities of players off the ball
• To develop player ownership and independence:
-including a player-led warm-up routine
-player to player coaching (using verbal and non-verbal communication)
• To develop self-efficacy, self-reflection and self-regulation skills
• To develop teamwork: group discussion and reflection skills
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U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

THE GAME MOMENTS

TEAM IN POSSESSION
ATTACKING

TEAM REGAINING POSSESSION TEAM LOSING POSSESSION

DEFENDING TO ATTACKING ATTACKING TO DEFENDING
TRANSITION TRANSITION

TEAM OUT OF POSSESSION

DEFENDING

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #51
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

11v11 U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND
FINISHING
ATTACKING
GAME IDEA
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in
order to create chances and score goals.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES
Create appropriate height, width, depth
CREATE ATTACKING TEAM SHAPE
Create optimal attacking distances between players
Provide vertical or diagonal passing options
Overload centrally or wide
PROVIDE OPTIONS TO PLAY FORWARD Move or lose opponent when marked
Make runs behind the defensive line
Give immediate support to teammate under pressure
Drive with the ball to exploit space
Engage opponent: create 1v1 or 2v1
BREAK LINES TO ADVANCE ATTACK
Find a free player between or behind the lines
Switch play: pass the ball to opponent’s weak zone
TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE OPPONENT COUNTER Push up the defensive line with speed: stay connected and compact
Separate: time run or quick movement to unmark
Final pass: through ball or combination play
Numbers in the box: fill zones in front of goal
FINISH THE ATTACK AS FAST AS POSSIBLE
Cross: into space or player
Take on 1v1 to create or score
Finish: use limited touches

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #52
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in order to create chances and score goals.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Attacking players position as high as possible:
- Pin or move the opponent’s back line to stretch the opponent’s team in length.
- Lower the level of vertical compactness of opponent:
- create more space between the opponent’s defensive lines (specifically, between the the
opponent’s back line and midfield).
• Wide forwards and/or fullbacks (wide players):
- Position wide while avoiding two players in a direct line: position attack across different
lanes
• Create appropriate height, width, depth - Lower level of horizontal (sideline to sideline) compactness of opponent
CREATE ATTACKING SHAPE - create more space centrally: creating passing lanes into the opponent's block
POSITION TO STRETCH OPPONENT AND CREATE SPACE or
- take advantage of space in wide areas
• Center backs and/or fullbacks (occasionally midfielders):
- Position behind the ball in supporting position.
- Lower the level of vertical compactness of opponent:
- create enough space to create strong ball circulation
- enable a switch of play
• Spread out with optimal passing distance between players.
• Create optimal attacking distances between players • Create relationships - connections between players.
• Exploit space in opponent’s defending team shape.

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #53
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in order to create chances and score goals.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Exploit the space in and around the opponent’s defensive block and create a positional
advantage:
- Avoid two players in a direct line.
- Move and provide a good supporting angle: receive facing forward to play forward when
• Provide vertical or diagonal passing options possible.
- Stay away from the ball when player on the ball has time and space to play forward.
• Triangulate: we position to provide the player on the ball with at least two forward
(diagonal/vertical) passing options on different levels of height and width.
• Rotate: interchange position to create a dynamic advantage.
• Create a numerical advantage in a specific area of the field:
- Position to outnumber opponent in the area around the ball or area away from the ball
• Create overload centrally or wide - Allow more players to attack - penetrations of midfielders or defenders
- Drop midfielders or attackers
• If marked move to open space or move to open the space:
PROVIDE OPTIONS TO PLAY FORWARD • Lose opponent to receive the ball
(RE-)POSITION TO CREATE ADVANTAGE AND RECEIVE THE BALL - Distance from defender in space (get unmarked)/ move between the lines
• Move opponent to receive the ball
- Draw opponent out of defending position to create space for self to receive (requires
• Move or lose opponent when marked explosive
change of direction)
• Move to create space and passing options for teammate to receive
- Draw opponent out of defending position to create space for teammate to exploit and
receive ball
• Make run when player on the ball is facing forward and has no pressure or has pressure but can
play forward
• Make runs behind the defensive line • Use different runs and time run to avoid offside (straight run, curved run, ...)
• Receive the ball facing forward
• Recognize the player on the ball is under pressure and has no immediate options:
• Give immediate support to teammate under
- Above the ball: move towards the ball to create a passing option
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pressure - Behind the ball:U.S. Soccer
adjust Player
position Development
to create Framework Slide
passing option #54
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in order to create chances and score goals.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Recognize and exploit space.
• Drive with the ball to exploit space • Accelerate play through dribble: individually progress the ball into space with change of tempo.
• Attract opponent (draw attention).
• Dribble and look for 1v1 or 2v1 :
- Engage to isolate opponent:
- Eliminate through dribble: take opponent on in 1v1
• Engage opponent: create 1v1 or 2v1 - Eliminate through pass or give and go
BREAK LINES TO ADVANCE ATTACK • Move or hold the ball to attract opponent:
PROGRESS THE BALL FORWARD AND ELIMINATE OPPONENT(S) - Move the opponent, invite pressure to create space for teammate.
• Pass quickly, accurately and with appropriate pace to a free player.
• Find a free player between or behind the lines • Skip a line: recognize opportunity & take risk: look furthest first, look nearest second.
• Pass dictates the action: pass with intent.
• Draw opponent to one side and find space on the opposite side:
• Switch play: pass the ball to opponents’ weak zone - Direct change of point: long pass
- Indirect change of point: short pass
• Provide balance (numbers).
TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE • We all move with the same speed and lose space in between lines that the opponent could
OPPONENT COUNTER • Push up the defensive line with speed: stay exploit.
POSITION TO PROTECT AGAINST COUNTERATTACK connected and compact • Create as high a line as possible.
• GK take high position: stay connected with the backline .
- GK anticipate long pass from opponent and adjust quickly.

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #55
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in order to create chances and score goals.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Move into a position in and around the box to score or assist:
- Forward run behind the opponent’s back line from a high position (attacking position)
- Forward run behind the opponent’s back line from a deeper position (midfield position)
• Separate: time run or quick movement to unmark - Move out of sight to receive
• Counter movement: opposite movement between two players
• Quick movement from opponent to create space
• Disguised pass to manipulate opponent
• Pass quickly, accurately and with appropriate pace:
- through ball or chip ball to player who runs in behind
• Final pass: through ball or combination play - pass to unmarked player in or around the box
• Quick combination play between 2 or more players to find a teammate in a goalscoring position
• Recognize the player in the better position.
FINISH THE ATTACK
CREATE SCORING OPPORTUNITY AND SCORE • Efficient occupation of zones in the box on cross: near post, back post, penalty spot, edge of box
- Time your run in the box
• Numbers in the box: fill zones in front of goal - Get unmarked or in front of opponent
- Attack the ball
• Time the cross in front or behind the backline
• Cross: into space or player - Recognize space (positioning of goalkeeper and defenders)

- recognize the positions and runs of teammates in penalty box

• Take on 1v1 to create or score • Eliminate opponent through dribble to create goalscoring opportunity
• Shoot from (short/long) distance
• Finish: use limited touches • Finish off the cross: choose your final touch
• React quickly on rebounds

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #56
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

11v11 U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND
FINISHING
PLAYER ACTIONS
A soccer skill, needed to successfully execute a team tactical main- or sub-principle requiring perception,
decision-making, physical and technical execution.
ATTACKING

WITH THE BALL

Controlling

Protecting

Driving

Dribbling

Passing

Shooting

SPACIAL & POSITIONAL AWARENESS

Scanning

Supporting

Adapting body shape

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #57

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U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in order to create chances and score goals.
PLAYER ACTIONS
A soccer skill, needed to successfully execute a team tactical main- or sub-principle requiring perception, decision-making, physical and technical execution.
PLAYER ACTION DEFINITION
WITH THE BALL
• Receiving and preparing the ball from short passes (distance of 5 to 20 yards)
• Receiving and preparing the ball in such a way that you can immediately go to goal
• Receiving and preparing the ball in such a way that it stays as close to you as possible
• Receiving by moving towards the ball when opponent is close by (attacking the ball)
• Receiving and preparing the ball from a long pass in the air
• Receiving and preparing the ball on the bounce
CONTROLLING • Receiving and preparing the ball on the turn towards the opponent's goal as quickly as possible
• Receiving and playing in 1 touch if you can pass accurately
• Avoiding looking at the ball when receiving and preparing the ball
• Scanning for a free teammate after performing the control
• Scanning for a free teammate before or while receiving and preparing the ball
• Avoiding a long ball from bouncing - receiving before the bounce
• Receiving and playing a long ball in 1 touch if you can pass accurately
• Shielding and maintaining possession of the ball, by placing most of the body between the ball and opponent, keeping the ball on the furthest foot away from the
PROTECTING defender while looking for teammates
• Turning away from and out of reach of your opponent
• Running with the ball, keeping the ball as close as possible to the body
• Avoiding looking at the ball while driving the ball
DRIVING • Keeping your body between the ball and the approaching opponent while driving the ball
• Running as fast as possible with the ball, picking up speed to gain as much time and territory as possible
• Creating space in advance (before controlling) in which you want to drive the ball

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #58

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U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in order to create chances and score goals.
PLAYER ACTIONS
A soccer skill, needed to successfully execute a team tactical main- or sub-principle requiring perception, decision-making, physical and technical execution.
PLAYER ACTION DEFINITION
WITH THE BALL
• Taking on the opponent
• Reading the body shape of the opponent and engaging on the most obvious/weak side
• Accelerating when eliminating the opponent
• Avoiding looking at the ball while dribbling
DRIBBLING • Keeping your body between the ball and the opponent while dribbling
• Holding off the opponent and creating distance from the opponent
• Dribbling through a change of direction at the right time, or through a change of speed or through a feint
• Dribbling when you can cause direct danger on target
• Playing the ball intentionally with different surfaces to a free teammate, into feet or space, within a distance of 5 to 20 yards
• Playing the ball to the foot so that the player receiving the ball can continue to play forward
• Making a leading pass in front of your teammate, making sure that the teammate can take the ball without having to slow down
• Looking at the player you are passing to when passing
• Trying to take out an opponent with a quick wall pass (give and go) in a small space
PASSING • Making a long pass in the air
• Playing a long ball in space so a teammate can receive the ball while running
• Avoiding passing to a player surrounded by opponents who can be immediately put under pressure
• Playing the cross at the right time and with the right ball speed outside the action area of ​the goalkeeper and the defender
• Disguising the pass
• Striking the ball intentionally with different surfaces from short and medium range (1-10 yards; 11-20 yards) on the goal (finishing)
• Looking at the position of the goalkeeper before shooting at goal, and selecting a target
• Aiming for the far side if you shoot from an angle and the goalkeeper is protecting near post
• Finishing in 1 time/touch when closely marked
SHOOTING • Finishing on the volley / bounce
• Following the ball after the shot
• Dribbling at the goalkeeper when he/she comes out at full speed or when he or she protects the goal well and scoring from the shot becomes difficult

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•
•
Chipping the goalkeeper
Disguising the finish U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #59
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in order to create chances and score goals.
PLAYER ACTIONS
A soccer skill, needed to successfully execute a team tactical main- or sub-principle requiring perception, decision-making, physical and technical execution.
PLAYER ACTION DEFINITION
SPACIAL & POSITIONAL AWARENESS
• Searching for the ball, teammates and the goal:
- scanning for a free teammate after performing the control
SCANNING - scanning for a free teammate before or while receiving and preparing the ball (passing)
- scanning and avoiding looking at the ball while dribbling
- scanning and looking at the position of the goalkeeper before shooting at goal, and selecting a target (shooting)
• Looking at the player in possession of the ball
• Finding open space for self and indicating this, verbally or non-verbally, to the player in possession of the ball
• Repositioning after giving a pass (ex. give and go)
• Assessing teammates’ movements and moving off each other
SUPPORTING (POSITIONING) • Unmarking and running behind opponent when a teammate on the ball is looking for options
• Looking to get out of sight from the defender’s vision
• Losing direct opponent by switching positions with a teammate
• Anticipating as the third player who will get the ball after a pass between two teammates
• Adjusting shoulders and hips to be 45 - 90 degrees towards the attacking goal
ADAPTING BODY SHAPE • While approaching, have an optimal overview of the game situation.

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #60
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in order to create chances and score goals.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES PLAYER ACTIONS
FIELD PHASE OBJECTIVE
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES WITH THE BALL

• Controlling
• Create appropriate height, width, depth
CREATE ATTACKING SHAPE • Create optimal attacking distances between players • Protecting
DEFENDING HALF

BUILDING UP

• Advance the ball • Driving

• Keep the ball • Provide vertical or diagonal passing options
• Create overload centrally or wide • Dribbling
• Move or lose opponent when marked
PROVIDE OPTIONS TO PLAY FORWARD • Make runs behind the defensive line • Passing
• Give immediate support to teammate under pressure

• Shooting
• Drive with the ball to exploit space
• Engage opponent: create 1v1 or 2v1 SPACIAL & POSITIONAL AWARENESS
BREAK LINES TO ADVANCE ATTACK • Find a free player between or behind the lines
• Switch play: pass the ball to the opponent’s weak zone
CREATING & SCORING

• Push up the defensive line with speed: stay connected and • Scanning
ATTACKING HALF

• Score goal TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE

compact
• Create chance OPPONENT COUNTER • Create high defensive shape behind the ball
• Advance the ball
• Keep the ball
• Separate: time run or quick movement to unmark
• Final pass: through ball or combination play • Supporting
• Numbers in the box: fill in zones in front of goal
FINISH THE ATTACK • Cross into space or player
• Take on 1v1 to create or score • Adapting body shape
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• Finish: use limited touches
U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #61
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

11v11 U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND
FINISHING

ATTACKING TO DEFENDING TRANSITION

GAME IDEA

When we lose the ball, we want to regain it early by reacting immediately with maximum intensity.
When we recognize we are unable to pressure the ball, we recover quickly into a defending shape.

TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES

MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES

• Press to regain or prevent progress of the ball

APPLY IMMEDIATE PRESSURE ON THE BALL
• Provide cover and balance: eliminate options

• Drop off and block direct path to goal

DELAY THE COUNTERACTTACK
• Slow down and dictate opponent

• Get numbers back quickly and take defensive position

RECOVER WITH SPEED
• Press from behind as quickly as possible

TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE THE COUNTER • Create passing option(s): between the lines

• Defend the goal and create conditions to engage

DENY FINISH FROM COUNTERATTACK
• Challenge to protect against a goal attempt

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #62
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING TO DEFENDING TRANSITION

When we lose the ball, we want to regain it early by reacting immediately with maximum intensity.
When we recognize we are unable to pressure the ball, we recover quickly into a defending shape.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Recognize situations when to press or hold and force wide (awareness)
• Win the ball when opportunity to regain (distance, numbers and levels of compactness)
• Nearest player(s):
• Press to regain or prevent progress of the ball - React immediately, reduce space with speed and intensity
- Apply (frontal/diagonal) pressure on the ball: deny switch - stop long ball - prevent forward
pass
- Stay disciplined: no foul
APPLY IMMEDIATE PRESSURE ON THE BALL
REACT QUICKLY TO WIN THE BALL BACK AND STOP OPPONENTS’ FORWARD PROTECT THE NEAREST SPACE: ANTICIPATE SHORT PASSING
PLAY • Teammates collectively reduce space and area around the ball
• Mark outlet players - block passing lines - cover space
• Push up the lines when opposition is forced backwards
• Provide cover and balance: eliminate options PROTECT THE SPACE IN BEHIND: ANTICIPATE THE LONG BALL
• Central defenders anticipate the long ball when inefficient pressure: read pass and drop
• Wide defenders attach to the backline
• Adjust body position to anticipate opponent’s movement or action
• Drop-off and protect the center:
- Drop centrally, get narrow and defend in relation to goal
• Drop off and block direct path to goal - Create compact block - numbers between ball and goal (to force play wide)
• Reduce the central space between the backline
DELAY THE COUNTERATTACK
DROP AND NARROW, REDUCE SPEED OF OPPONENTS TO ALLOW PLAYERS
• Identify and mark the most dangerous player
TO RECOVER • Slow down the opponent when we are unable to pressure the player on the ball and in a
disadvantage (ex. outnumbered) to allow players to return in the defensive block
• Slow down and dictate opponent • Dictate direction (force backwards or wide) and speed of play (reduce speed)
• Create equal numbers or overload (in area of the ball): eliminate passing options (2v1 → 1-1 )

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #63
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING TO DEFENDING TRANSITION

When we lose the ball, we want to regain it early by reacting immediately with maximum intensity.
When we recognize we are unable to pressure the ball, we recover quickly into a defending shape.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Get numbers back quickly and take defensive • Sprint back to get behind the ball to support teammates.
position • Attach to the backline and defend in relation to the goal.
RECOVER WITH SPEED
SPRINT BACK TO GET BALANCED, ORGANIZED AND APPLY PRESSURE • Sprint back and put pressure on the opponent in possession:
• Press from behind as quickly as possible -Prevent the opponent from playing forward or dribbling with the ball.
-Try to recover the ball (don’t give up).
• Anticipate the moment when team wins the ball back :
TAKE COUNTERMEASURES -Stop defending
POSITION TO PREPARE THE COUNTERATTACK
• Create passing option(s): between the lines -Unmark from defender
-Position (diagonally) between the lines to set up a possible counter-attack

• Be patient and don’t commit too early (recognize distance from goal, wait for teammates)
• Defend the goal and create conditions to engage • Isolate opponent on the ball when possible: 2v1 → 1-1
DENY FINISH FROM COUNTERATTACK
DENY SCORING OPPORTUNITIY AND PREVENT SCORING
• Challenge with strong determination: block shot to tackle - intercept to prevent assist
• Challenge to protect against a goal attempt -When we are organized and have a numerical advantage
-When opponent is in shooting distance

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #64
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING TO DEFENDING TRANSITION

When we lose the ball, we want to regain it early by reacting immediately with maximum intensity.
When we recognize we are unable to pressure the ball, we recover quickly into a defending shape.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES PLAYER ACTIONS
FIELD PHASE OBJECTIVE
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES AGAINST THE BALL
• Intercepting
• Regain the ball
• Pressing
PREVENTING BUILD UP

• Prevent the opponent from

• Press to regain or prevent progress of the ball
ATTACING HALF

playing forward APPLY IMMEDIATE PRESSURE ON THE BALL • Challenging

• Deny penetration from the • Provide cover and balance: eliminate options
dribble • Delaying
• Reducing time and space
• Blocking the shot
SPACIAL & POSITIONAL AWARENESS

• Drop off and block direct path to goal • Scanning

DELAY THE COUNTERATTACK
• Slow down and dictate opponent
• Adapting body shape
DENYING CHANCES & SCORING

• Prevent goal • Get numbers back quickly and take defensive position
• Deny a chance RECOVER WITH SPEED
• Press from behind as quickly as possible
DEFENDING HALF

• Regain the ball

• Prevent the opponent from • Covering
playing forward TAKE COUNTERMEASURES • Create passing option(s): between the lines
• Deny penetration from the
dribble
• Reducing time and space

• Defend the goal and create conditions to engage

DENY THE FINISH
• Challenge to protect against a goal attempt • Marking

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #65
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

11v11 U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND
FINISHING
DEFENDING
GAME IDEA

When we do not have the ball, we want to prevent the opponent from playing forward and regain the ball as
high up the field as possible through compactness and pressing.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES
• Make team compact: vertical and horizontal
- (Re-) Position to create a high front line
CREATE DEFENDING SHAPE - (Re-) Position to create a high defensive line

• Create optimal defending distances between players

• Move as a collective unit: make play predictable

• Initiate pressure on the opponent with the ball

BUILD PRESSURE ON THE BALL • Engage when chance of regaining the ball

• Provide cover and balance: eliminate passing options

• Prevent the switch: keep opponent on one side

• Immediately (re-) apply pressure on the ball

RECOVER WHEN PRESSURE IS BROKEN • Delay attack and regain defensive shape

• Look to intercept pass or win second ball

TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE TO COUNTER • Create passing option(s): between the lines

• Get narrow and close the center: denying the through ball

• Marking and tracking opponent

DENY THE FINISH • Deny the cross

• Defending the cross: protect the width of the goal

• Challenge to protect against goal attempt

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #66
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING
When we do not have the ball, we want to prevent the opponent from playing forward and regain the ball as high up the field as possible through compactness and
pressing.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Create a defensive block and reduce passing options for the opponent on the ball
- as high as possible

• Make team compact: vertical and horizontal • Attacking players (re-)position to create a high line of confrontation
- (Re-) Position to create a high front line • Position to block passing lanes, make play predictable and build pressure

- (Re-) Position to create a high defensive • Center backs and/or fullbacks take a high defending position to support compactness
CREATE DEFENDING SHAPE line - Reduce space between different lines of the team
POSITION TO CREATE COMPACT TEAM ORGANIZATION AND - Manage offside: central defender closest to the ball creates the offside line (if in own half)
REDUCE SPACE
• High position of the goalkeeper to stay connected with the backline

• Create relationships - connections between players through spacing and distances :

• Create optimal defending distances between - Reduce options to penetrate with the ball
players - Ensure cover
- Allow for interception

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #67
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING
When we do not have the ball, we want to prevent the opponent from playing forward and regain the ball as high up the field as possible through compactness and
pressing.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Move relative to the position of the ball while maintaining optimal distances between players:
- Reduce time and space for the opponent on the ball
- Shift and slide: no crossover with nearest teammate
• Move as a collective unit: make play - Step: when the the ball is played backwards or when pressure on the ball
predictable • Direct the player on the ball:
- Reduce the options for the opponent on the ball and force to one area :
- Block passing lanes
- Allow passes to pressing area
• Nearest player pressures the ball:
- Prevent opponent from playing forward
BUILD PRESSURE ON THE BALL • Initiate pressure on the opponent with the ball - Limit time on the ball
- Force opponent to look down
CREATE CONDITIONS TO WIN THE BALL OR TO PREVENT
- Force to make mistake
FORWARD PLAY
• Engage in the identified situations:
• Engage when chance of regaining the ball - Step out and intercept when possible: for example - slow pass, bad touch,...
- 1v1: don’t get eliminated by dribble, touch or pass
• Block immediate passing options when teammate puts pressure on the ball
• Provide cover and balance: eliminate passing - Cover by the closest player to prevent forward passes / progression: mark, front or track
options - Weakside players move centrally
- Bring numbers to the area / outnumber the opponent/bring numbers around the ball

• Prevent the switch: keep opponent on one • Bring numbers around the ball
side • Keep opponent locked and stop from getting out of the area

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #68
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING
When we do not have the ball, we want to prevent the opponent from playing forward and regain the ball as high up the field as possible through compactness and
pressing.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Re-apply pressure on opponent when line is broken:
- From behind: chase the player in possession and attempt to win the ball back without fouling
• Immediately (re-) apply pressure on the ball - In front: step up and press when cover is present
• Recover from switch of play:
- Strong shift of the team when opponent was able to switch the play
RECOVER WHEN PRESSURE IS BROKEN • Slow down the opponent’s attack : drop and narrow. Reduce speed of opponent to allow teammates to recover
RE-CREATE CONDITIONS TO WIN THE BALL AND REGAIN • Recover with numbers between the ball and the goal
COMPACTNESS • Delay attack and regain defending shape - outnumber opponent when possible
- get organized
• Track and/or mark the most dangerous players
• When the line is broken by the long ball: defending players
• Look to intercept pass or win second ball - Drop and narrow together
- Compete for the second ball
• Anticipate the moment when team wins the ball back and set for transition :
TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE TO - Stop defending
COUNTER • Create passing option(s): between the lines - Unmark from defender
POSITION TO PREPARE THE COUNTERATTACK - Scan field and position (diagonally) between the lines to set up a possible counter-attack

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #69
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING
When we do not have the ball, we want to prevent the opponent from playing forward and regain the ball as high up the field as possible through compactness and
pressing.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Always pressure the player on the ball: reduce time, space and options for the opponent on the ball
• Prevent opponent from passing and making runs to receive behind the defensive line
• Get narrow and close the center: denying the • Reduce space between teammates: narrow when closer to goal
through ball - Get numbers in the central areas
- Always provide protection for center backs by fronting them
- drive opponent’s offensive play towards wide areas
• Close marking of direct opponent in zone:
- split-vision: keep eye on ball and opponent
• Change marking:
• Marking and tracking opponent - Scan your surroundings and communicate
- Stay in your defensive zone when the opponent changes position
- Pass on opponent to teammate or mark opponent coming from another zone
• Switch to player-marking: when necessary, switch from zonal marking to player marking
DENY THE FINISH • Defend the cross with support from midfielder or winger
PREVENT OPPONENT FROM SCORING AND CREATING SCORING
OPPORTUNITIES
• Deny the cross - Deny cross into space or player
- Center backs stay in central position
• Get organized and increase the protection in front of the goal on the cross:
- Weakside fullback is connecting to the backline
- Occupy strategic zones
• Defending the cross: protect the width of the
• Close marking of direct opponent:
goal - split-vision: keep eye on ball and opponent
• Challenge: be first on the ball
- Aggressiveness
• Engage and commit when chance of attempt on goal
- Don’t get eliminated by dribble
• Challenge to protect against goal attempt - Block shot
- Win the second ball
- Clearance

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #70
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING
When we do not have the ball, we want to prevent the opponent from playing forward and regain the ball as high up the field as possible through compactness and pressing.

PLAYER ACTIONS
A soccer skill, needed to successfully execute a team tactical main- or sub-principle requiring perception, decision-making, physical and technical execution.
PLAYER ACTION DEFINITION

AGAINST THE BALL

• Winning or deflecting the ball, if not stay in position
• Deflecting an opponent’s pass away from the intended target
INTERCEPTING • Staying in possession of the ball after stealing it and continuing with an attacking action
• Playing in one touch to a teammate
• Intercept the ball as high as possible (high point) on a long (high) ball
• Running to the opponent who is about to receive the ball (approx. 2 yards distance) while the ball is moving (to reduce the space for the opponent or force error)
PRESSING • Having fast approach but slow arrival
• Approach is forcing into desired area
• Taking good defensive posture (on toes, knees are bent, staggered stance, …) that allows to start the 1v1 in favorable conditions
• Always look at the ball
CHALLENGING • Stay on your feet
• Retaining possession of the ball after winning the duel
• If you are eliminated, don't give up, challenge again immediately
• Slowing down, reducing speed from the opponent's action
DELAYING • Driving the player on the ball to the outside (away from goal)

BLOCK THE SHOT • Getting in between the ball and the defending goal to redirect the ball away from goal

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #71
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING
When we do not have the ball, we want to prevent the opponent from playing forward and regain the ball as high up the field as possible through compactness and pressing.

PLAYER ACTIONS
A soccer skill, needed to successfully execute a team tactical main- or sub-principle requiring perception, decision-making, physical and technical execution.
PLAYER ACTION DEFINITION

SPACIAL & POSITIONAL AWARENESS

SCANNING • Searching for the ball, nearest teammates and nearest opponents in relationship to the goal we are protecting

ADAPTING BODY SHAPE • Adjusting shoulders and hips to be 45 - 90 degrees towards the defending goal

• Positioning at the appropriate distance from the challenging teammate, allowing to quickly put pressure again if needed
COVERING • Preventing the opponent behind your back (between the lines) from being an option
• Preventing direct opponent from receiving the ball in favorable circumstances by positioning next to the opponent (proactive stance)
MARKING • Trying to look at both the ball and direct opponent
• Marking closer when closer to goal

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #72
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING
When we do not have the ball, we want to prevent the opponent from playing forward and regain the ball as high up the field as possible through compactness and
pressing.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES PLAYER ACTIONS
FIELD PHASE OBJECTIVE
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES AGAINST THE BALL
• Intercepting
• Regain the ball • Make team compact: vertical and horizontal
• Pressing
PREVENTING BUILD UP

• Prevent the opponent from - Position to create a high front line

ATTACING HALF

playing forward CREATE DEFENDING SHAPE - Position to create high defensive line • Challenging
• Deny penetration from the • Create optimal defending distances between
dribble • Delaying
players
• Reducing time and space • Block the shot
• Move as a collective unit: make play predictable SPACIAL & POSITIONAL AWARENESS
• Initiate pressure on the opponent with the ball
• Engage when chance of regaining the ball • Scanning
BUILD PRESSURE ON THE BALL
• Provide cover and balance: eliminate passing
options
• Adapting body shape
• Prevent the switch: keep opponent on one side
• Immediately (re-) apply pressure on the ball
DENYING CHANCES & SCORING

• Prevent goal RECOVER WHEN PRESSURE IS BROKEN • Delay attack and regain defensive shape
• Deny a chance • Look to intercept pass or win second ball • Covering
DEFENDING HALF

• Regain the ball

• Prevent the opponent from TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE TO
• Create passing option(s): between the lines
playing forward COUNTER
• Deny penetration from the
dribble
• Get narrow and close the center: denying the
• Reducing time and space
through ball
• Marking and tracking opponent • Marking
DENY THE FINISH
• Deny the cross

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• Defending the cross: protect the width of the goal
U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide
• Challenge to protect against any goal attempt
#73
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

11v11 U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND
FINISHING
DEFENDING TO ATTACKING TRANSITION
GAME IDEA

When we regain the ball, we immediately think and play forward, look to attack at maximum
speed in order to create chances and score goals.

When we recognize we cannot play forward, we keep the ball and move into our attacking shape.

TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES

MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES
• First action forward
PLAY FORWARD QUICKLY
• Continue to play forward

• Play out of pressure

SECURE THE BALL
• Keep the ball and initiate build up

• Provide support in front of the ball

JOIN THE ATTACK WITH SPEED
• Provide support behind the ball

TAKE COUNTERMEASURES : ANTICIPATE THE • Push up the defensive line with speed: stay
COUNTER connected and compact

• Create and exploit space for self or teammate

• Attack space or engage opponent
FINISH THE COUNTERATTACK AS FAST AS POSSIBLE
• Recognize player in a better position to score
• Finish: use limited touches

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #74
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING TO ATTACKING
When we regain the ball, we immediately think and play forward, look to attack at maximum speed in order to create chances and score goals. When we recognize we cannot play forward,
we keep the ball and move into our attacking shape.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES

MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION

• Start attacking transition immediately with forward action:
- Pass forward into open space or feet to (highest) transition player (vertical / diagonal)
• First action forward - Touch forward and run or dribble aggressively at maximum speed when space
• GK distribution: throw/volley into space or feet
• Continue to progress the ball forward at speed to prevent the opponent from returning into
PLAY FORWARD QUICKLY defensive shape: dribble or pass
PLAY FORWARD WITH AS FEW PASSES AS POSSIBLE
• Play with limited touches to increase the speed of the transition:
• Continue to play forward - Direct: open body shape to receive the ball facing forward or turn when time on the ball
- Indirect: lay-off / playing backwards to supporting teammate (3rd man running)
• Stay central if possible
• Take advantage of space behind the opponent’s backline - pass behind
• Shield the ball when pressure from opponent
• Play out of pressure • Move the ball out of the zone when possession is regained to escape counter press
SECURE THE BALL • Play sideways or backwards when unable to dribble or pass forward (or draw foul)
ESCAPE COUNTERPRESS FROM CLOSEST OPPONENT(S) • Keep possession when opponent is balanced and organized
• Keep the ball: initiate build up
• Recognize risk vs reward: priority is to secure possession
• Move into attacking shape
• Sprint forward and commit numbers into the attacking half
• Provide support in front of the ball • Get players in front of the ball as quickly as possible to attack the backline of the opponent
JOIN THE ATTACK WITH SPEED • Provide a passing option: make a run in behind
SPRINT FORWARD TO ATTACK OR SUPPORT
• Position to enable the attack to continue by creating passing options behind the ball
• Provide support behind the ball • Recycle the attack when unable to continue the counter

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #75
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING TO ATTACKING
When we regain the ball, we immediately think and play forward, look to attack at maximum speed in order to create chances and score goals. When we recognize we cannot play forward,
we keep the ball and move into our attacking shape.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES

MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION

TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE THE • Push up the defensive line with speed: stay • Provide balance (numbers)
COUNTER • Close space in between lines that the opponent could exploit
connected and compact • Create as high a line as possible
POSITION TO PROTEXT AGAINST COUNTERATTACK

• Separate from opponent and receive between the lines

• Create and exploit space for self or teammate • Exploit space behind opponent backline: make a run to receive in behind
• Make a run to free up space for teammate to receive
• Dribble at speed into open space:
- Invite pressure to create (more) space for teammate(s)
FINISH THE COUNTERATTACK AS FAST AS • Attack space or engage opponent • Dribble at speed to isolate defender:
POSSIBLE - Attract to free up teammate (2v1)
CREATE SCORING OPPORTUNITY AND SCORE - Eliminate defender or create separation and shoot (1v1)
• Keep composure (decision at full speed)
• Recognize player in a better position to score • Recognize the right moment to pass to a teammate in a better position to score or assist
- We attack/occupy different areas in the box
• Finish: use limited touches • Select the best surface and shoot on goal with a minimal touches.

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #76
U13 - U14
PROGRESSION PHASE I
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING TO ATTACKING
When we regain the ball, we immediately think and play forward, look to attack at maximum speed in order to create chances and score goals.
When we recognize we cannot play forward, we keep the ball and move into our attacking shape.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES PLAYER ACTIONS
FIELD PHASE OBJECTIVE
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES WITH THE BALL

• Controlling
• First action forward
PLAY FORWARD QUICKLY
• Continue to play forward
DEFENDING HALF

• Protecting
BUILDING UP

• Advance the ball

• Keep the ball
• Driving
• Play out of pressure
SECURE THE BALL
• Keep the ball and initiate build up
• Dribbling

• Passing
• Provide support in front of the ball
JOIN THE ATTACK WITH SPEED • Shooting
• Provide support behind the ball
SPACIAL & POSITIONAL AWARENESS
CREATING & SCORING

• Push up the defensive line with speed: stay connected and

ATTACKING HALF

• Score goal TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE THE COUNTER compact

• Create chance • Scanning
• Advance the ball
• Keep the ball

• Create and exploit space for self or teammate • Supporting

• Attack space or engage the opponent
FINISH THE COUNTERATTACK
• Recognize player in better position to score
• Finish: use limited touches • Adapting body shape

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #77
U . S . S O C C E R F E D E R A T I O N

P L A Y E R D E V E L OP M E N T
F R A ME W O R K
11V11
U15 - U16 LEARNING PLAN
© 2023 U.S. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared without U.S. Soccer approval
U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #78
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER-CENTERED

WHO IS IN FRONT OF US?

A PLAYER-CENTERED APPROACH TO PLAYING THE GAME
FOCUS ON CREATING A DEVELOPMENTALLY APPROPRIATE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #79

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DEVELOPMENTAL STAGE: ADOLESCENCE
B-U5 B-U6 B-U7 B-U8 B-U9 B-U10 B-U11 B-U12 B-U13 B-U14 B-U15 B-U16 B-U17 B-U18
G-U5 G-U6 G-U7 G-U8 G-U9 G-U10 G-U11 G-U12 G-U13 G-U14 G-U15 G-U16 G-U17 G-U18
GAME FORMAT:
SOCIAL CHARACTERISTICS EMOTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS COGNITIVE CHARACTERISTICS PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
11v11
• Are more comfortable navigating within their social setting (school) • Still have strong emotions and quick mood swings but are better equipped to • Pre-frontal cortex continues to develop executive functioning: • Continue to experience effects of rapid growth, increases in height and
while still learning to adapt and conform to rules of the peer group recognize and control them • Develop coordination of attention with memory and the control of weight, as well as increases in muscle mass and body fat
• Develop a stronger sense of self and rely less on the opinions of • Begin to question who they are and what they should do with their lives. behavioral responses and abstract thought • Essential to monitor body alignment (i.e., ankles, knees, hips,
others (older teens resist peer pressure better than younger teens) Frequently ask the question “Why?” and this will challenge self-regulation skills • Develop deeper moral reasoning and think about the meaning of life shoulders, and vertebrae), muscle balance (triceps and biceps,
• Although still strongly influenced by peers they continue to be • Can handle constructive/unsolicited feedback • Still a little bit self-centered because they have not yet fully learned to quadriceps and hamstrings), and flexibility
more assertive and separate themselves from • Can develop emotional skills to resist social pressure, however their emotions correctly assess the intentions of others • May have increased hormone levels as their bodies are now naturally
parents/guardians/authority figures. They start to form their own may be susceptible to reactions/interactions made in the digital world/social • May hold a belief that their experiences are unique and different from producing testosterone & estrogen
opinion on important topics media those of everyone else -These hormones impact training responses in physical qualities, such
• May struggle with authority figures and boundaries than have been • Start to develop empathy. Are more open to the fact that others can also have • Have a greater capacity for setting goals than previous stages. Become better at as strength, power, speed and endurance
U15 set by adults. Parents are often viewed as interfering with a teen’s their own intentions and emotions, however, they cannot always interpret everyday planning and decision making, especially concerning practice and • With these changes in the body the female movement competencies

U16 •
independence.
Compare/measure self to others and might be pre-occupied with •
them correctly
Emotional value of contact with peers increases and they may become •
competition
They are learning to deal with abstract tasks like anticipating long-term
change and can lead to injury (especially in the knee, hip and ankle
joints)
personal appearance emotionally attached to a romantic interest events/decisions and judging potential consequences • Height increases continue in males (beginning to reach their peak in
• Develop individual relationships and can exhibit more interest in • Extremely sensitive for rewards and can be focused on new sensations (leads • Lack ability to fully make complex decisions with several alternatives which can lead physical growth), whereas females are usually finished growing and
intimacy/romantic relationships to risky behavior) to making more impulsive and dangerous decisions than adults may add some weight
• Proving oneself is an enormous motivation for players at this age • May have emotional side effects brought on by puberty including emotional • Evolving hormone systems (including stress hormones) can have a major effect on the • As muscle mass increases in males, so does body satisfaction.
(especially males). same in U17 fragility, insensitivity, unreasonable behavior and bad moods occur in both brain and behavior However, many teenage girls become dissatisfied with their bodies and
• May show a fanatical attitude that often creates conflict with males and females • Dealing with more factors that can affect concentration such as spectators, opponent weight due to the increase in body fat. Some teens may even resort to
teammates and opponents (especially males) same in U17 interactions, and pressure to perform on demand. Negative self-talk can disrupt eating disorders to feel better about their bodies
concentration

PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING & POSITIONING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, QUICK COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING
GOALS
• Players develop scanning skills (ME AND MY SCANNING SKILLS)
• Players develop fundamental movement skills (ME AND MY MOVEMENT SKILLS)
• Players develop specific soccer skills based on a positional profile (ME AND THE BALL)
• Players develop high structured team play based on a style of play (ME AND MY TEAMMATES)
• To apply
LEARNING ENVIRONMENT: more complex team tactical principles in attacking, defending and transition moments: utilize a Style of Play as a s tructure for decision-making
OBJECTIVES
-develop a system of play within the formation (for both attacking and defending)
-continue to develop coordinated movements with groups of teammates: increased spatial awareness and interchange of roles during play
-to introduce the positional profile:
-place more focus on the individual responsibilities within a position
• To promote injury prevention methods and techniques
• To develop player ownership, independence, and planning:
• To continue to develop reaction speed and acceleration speed: focus on acceleration and deceleration
-include players in the planning process
• To continue to develop more complex movement skills with an emphasis on multi-lateral development: maintain and enhance flexibility, strength, power, agility and mobility
-player to player coaching and motivation (using verbal and non-verbal communication)
• To make aerobic training a priority after the onset of the growth spurt
• To develop self-efficacy, self-reflection and self-regulation skills
• To continue to promote skill acquisition - application of technique within a context including perception, decision -making, execution, and reflection
• To develop teamwork: group goal setting and mutual support

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT:
• UseACTIVITIES
activities that introduce individual positional training (based on a positional profile), functional group training, and team training
• Focus on decision-making through GAMES (learning through highly structured play that allows for players’ choice)
• Utilize a variety of activities that help develop the U.S. Soccer Key Qualities -utilize inclusionary small sided games: 1v1 → 11v11 (based on roster size and including use of unbalanced games)
• Activities should be flexible enough to allow for individual differences concerning the growth spurt • Use of positional games (rondos)
-activities should be flexible to allow for the workload placed on individuals • Use of activities over both short and long distances to develop different player actions
-activities allow for individualization based on maturity levels
• Activities can still be formed around deliberate PLAY with the ball (one player - one ball), but should now focus on small group and team play
-utilize specific training session goals (team tactical principles, sub-principles, and player actions)

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT:
• BeCOACHING
aware hormonal changes and the differences between genders (testosterone in males may cause ego -centric behavior and try to do everything individually
• Provide players with opportunity to learn:
-games are played in function of the development of the player
• Support players in finding personal fulfillment through increased player autonomy while gaining a deeper game understanding -the game objectives are always formulated based on the training session objectives
• Place more focus on specific individual development • Use cues/key words to create focus and to refocus is an effective way to maintain concentration.
• Be patient an understands that development takes time and players will develop at different rates.
• Be able to recognize the impact of growth and maturation on performance players.
© 2023 U.S. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared without U.S. Soccer approval U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #80
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

GAME FORMATION

4v4 7v7 9v9 11v11

U7-U8 U9-U10 U11-U12 U13+

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #81
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER-CENTERED: THE PLAYER

11v11 U15 - U16
SOCIAL

• Are more comfortable navigating within their social setting (school) while
still learning to adapt and conform to rules of the peer group
• Develop a stronger sense of self and rely less on the opinions of others
(older teens resist peer pressure better than younger teens)
• Although still strongly influenced by peers they continue to be more
assertive and separate themselves from parents/guardians/authority
figures. They start to form their own opinion on important topics
• May struggle with authority figures and boundaries than have been set by
adults. Parents are often viewed as interfering with a teen’s
independence.
• Compare/measure self to others and might be pre-occupied with
personal appearance
• Develop individual relationships and can exhibit more interest in
intimacy/romantic relationships
• Proving oneself is an enormous motivation for players at this age
(especially males). same in U17
• May show a fanatical attitude that often creates conflict with teammates
and opponents (especially males) same in U17

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #82

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U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER-CENTERED: THE PLAYER

11v11 U15 - U16
EMOTIONAL

• Still have strong emotions and quick mood swings but are better equipped
to recognize and control them
• Begin to question who they are and what they should do with their lives.
Frequently ask the question “Why?” and this will challenge self-regulation
skills
• Can handle constructive/unsolicited feedback
• Can develop emotional skills to resist social pressure, however their
emotions may be susceptible to reactions/interactions made in the digital
world/social media
• Start to develop empathy. Are more open to the fact that others can also
have their own intentions and emotions, however, they cannot always
interpret them correctly
• Emotional value of contact with peers increases and they may become
emotionally attached to a romantic interest
• Extremely sensitive for rewards and can be focused on new sensations
(leads to risky behavior)
• May have emotional side effects brought on by puberty including
emotional fragility, insensitivity, unreasonable behavior and bad moods
occur in both males and females

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #83
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER-CENTERED: THE PLAYER

11v11 U15 - U16
COGNITIVE

• Pre-frontal cortex continues to develop executive functioning:

• Develop coordination of attention with memory and the control of
behavioral responses and abstract thought
• Develop deeper moral reasoning and think about the meaning of life
• Still a little bit self-centered because they have not yet fully learned to
correctly assess the intentions of others
• May hold a belief that their experiences are unique and different
from those of everyone else
• Have a greater capacity for setting goals than previous stages. Become
better at everyday planning and decision making, especially concerning
practice and competition
• They are learning to deal with abstract tasks like anticipating long-term
events/decisions and judging potential consequences
• Lack ability to fully make complex decisions with several alternatives which
can lead to making more impulsive and dangerous decisions than adults
• Evolving hormone systems (including stress hormones) can have a major
effect on the brain and behavior
• Dealing with more factors that can affect concentration such as spectators,
opponent interactions, and pressure to perform on demand. Negative self-
talk can disrupt concentration

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #84
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER-CENTERED: THE PLAYER

11v11 U15 - U16
PHYSICAL

• Continue to experience effects of rapid growth, increases in height and

weight, as well as increases in muscle mass and body fat
• Essential to monitor body alignment (i.e., ankles, knees, hips, shoulders,
and vertebrae), muscle balance (triceps and biceps, quadriceps and
hamstrings), and flexibility
• May have increased hormone levels as their bodies are now naturally
producing testosterone & estrogen
-These hormones impact training responses in physical qualities, such as
strength, power, speed and endurance
• With these changes in the body the female movement competencies
change and can lead to injury (especially in the knee, hip and ankle joints)
• Height increases continue in males (beginning to reach their peak in
physical growth), whereas females are usually finished growing and may
add some weight
• As muscle mass increases in males, so does body satisfaction. However,
many teenage girls become dissatisfied with their bodies and weight due to
the increase in body fat. Some teens may even resort to eating disorders to
feel better about their bodies

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #85

© 2023 U.S. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared without U.S. Soccer approval
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

11v11 U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND
FINISHING

Soccer Development
GOALS
• Players develop scanning skills (ME AND MY SCANNING SKILLS)
• Players develop fundamental movement skills (ME AND MY MOVEMENT SKILLS)
• Players continue to develop fundamental soccer skills with and without the ball under a high level
of pressure (ME AND THE BALL)
• Players develop high structured team play based on a style of play (ME AND MY TEAMMATES)

Learning objectives
• To promote injury prevention methods and techniques
• To continue to develop reaction speed and acceleration speed: focus on acceleration and deceleration
• To continue to develop more complex movement skills with an emphasis on multi-lateral development:
maintain and enhance flexibility, strength, power, agility and mobility
• To make aerobic training a priority after the onset of the growth spurt
• To continue to promote skill acquisition - application of technique within a context including perception,
decision-making, execution, and reflection
• To apply more complex team tactical principles in attacking, defending and transition moments: utilize a Style
of Play as a structure for decision-making
-develop a system of play within the formation (for both attacking and defending)
-continue to develop coordinated movements with groups of teammates: increased spatial awareness and
interchange of roles during play
-to introduce the positional profile:
-place more focus on the individual responsibilities within a position
• To develop player ownership, independence, and planning:
-include players in the planning process
-player to player coaching and motivation (using verbal and non-verbal communication)
• To develop self-efficacy, self-reflection and self-regulation skills
• To develop teamwork: group goal setting and mutual support

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #86
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

WHAT CAN WE DEVELOP?

A PLAYER-CENTERED APPROACH TO PLAYING THE GAME
FOCUS ON CREATING A DEVELOPMENTALLY APPROPRIATE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #87

© 2023 U.S. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared without U.S. Soccer approval
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

11v11 STANDARDS OF PLAY

FIELD OF PLAY GOALS LAW 2 - BALL LAW 3 – # OF PLAYERS

Length- Min 100 yards/ Max 130 Goals should be 8 feet (height) x 24
yards feet (width) Size 5 ball 10 field players and 1 goalkeeper
Width- Min 50 yards/ Max 100 yards

LAW 3 - # OF PLAYERS SUBSTITUTIONS LAW 5 - REFEREE LAW 6 – OTHER MATCH OFFICALS

As a minimum, referees must have Assistant Referees must have a

Game may not start or *Substitutions are unlimited the U.S. Soccer Grassroots Referee minimum of the U.S. Soccer
continue if there are less than (Modified Laws of the Game) and can License. Grassroots Referee License
7 players on a team occur at any stoppage
*The use of return substitutions is only permitted in youth, veterans, disability and grassroots

© 2023 U.S. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared without U.S. Soccer approval

football, subject to the agreement of the national football association, confederation or FIFA
U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #88
1 1 V 1 1 S T A N D A R D S O F P L A Y

FIE LD SIZ E

© 2023 U.S. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared without U.S. Soccer approval U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #89
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

11v11 U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND
FINISHING

Soccer Development
GOALS
• Players develop scanning skills (ME AND MY SCANNING SKILLS)
• Players develop fundamental movement skills (ME AND MY MOVEMENT SKILLS)
• Players continue to develop fundamental soccer skills with and without the ball under a high level
of pressure (ME AND THE BALL)
• Players develop high structured team play based on a style of play (ME AND MY TEAMMATES)

Learning objectives
• To promote injury prevention methods and techniques
• To continue to develop reaction speed and acceleration speed: focus on acceleration and deceleration
• To continue to develop more complex movement skills with an emphasis on multi-lateral development:
maintain and enhance flexibility, strength, power, agility and mobility
• To make aerobic training a priority after the onset of the growth spurt
• To continue to promote skill acquisition - application of technique within a context including perception,
decision-making, execution, and reflection
• To apply more complex team tactical principles in attacking, defending and transition moments: utilize a Style
of Play as a structure for decision-making
-develop a system of play within the formation (for both attacking and defending)
-continue to develop coordinated movements with groups of teammates: increased spatial awareness and
interchange of roles during play
-to introduce the positional profile:
-place more focus on the individual responsibilities within a position
• To develop player ownership, independence, and planning:
-include players in the planning process
-player to player coaching and motivation (using verbal and non-verbal communication)
• To develop self-efficacy, self-reflection and self-regulation skills
• To develop teamwork: group goal setting and mutual support

© 2023 U.S. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared without U.S. Soccer approval U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #90
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

THE GAME MOMENTS

TEAM IN POSSESSION
ATTACKING

TEAM REGAINING POSSESSION TEAM LOSING POSSESSION

DEFENDING TO ATTACKING ATTACKING TO DEFENDING
TRANSITION TRANSITION

TEAM OUT OF POSSESSION

DEFENDING

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #91
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

11v11 U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND
FINISHING
ATTACKING
GAME IDEA
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in
order to create chances and score goals.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES
Create appropriate height, width, depth
CREATE ATTACKING TEAM SHAPE
Create optimal attacking distances between players
Provide vertical or diagonal passing options
Overload centrally or wide
PROVIDE OPTIONS TO PLAY FORWARD Move or lose opponent when marked
Make runs behind the defensive line
Give immediate support to teammate under pressure
Drive with the ball to exploit space
Engage opponent: create 1v1 or 2v1
BREAK LINES TO ADVANCE ATTACK
Find a free player between or behind the lines
Switch play: pass the ball to opponent’s weak zone
TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE OPPONENT Push up the defensive line with speed: stay connected and compact
COUNTER Create high defensive shape behind the ball
Separate: time run or quick movement to unmark
Final pass: through ball or combination play
Numbers in the box: fill zones in front of goal
FINISH THE ATTACK AS FAST AS POSSIBLE
Cross: into space or player
Take on 1v1 to create or score
Finish: use limited touches

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #92
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in order to create chances and score goals.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Attacking players position as high as possible:
- Pin or move the opponent’s back line to stretch the opponent’s team in length.
- Lower the level of vertical compactness of opponent:
- create more space between the opponent’s defensive lines (specifically, between the the
opponent’s back line and midfield).

• Wide forwards and/or fullbacks (wide players):

- Position wide while avoiding two players in a direct line: position attack across different
lanes
• Create appropriate height, width, depth - Lower level of horizontal (sideline to sideline) compactness of opponent
CREATE ATTACKING SHAPE - create more space centrally: creating passing lanes into the opponent's block
POSITION TO STRETCH OPPONENT AND CREATE SPACE or
- take advantage of space in wide areas

• Center backs and/or fullbacks (occasionally midfielders):

- Position behind the ball in supporting position.
- Lower the level of vertical compactness of opponent:
- create enough space to create strong ball circulation
- enable a switch of play
• Spread out with optimal passing distance between players.
• Create optimal attacking distances between players • Create relationships - connections between players.
• Exploit space in opponent’s defending team shape.

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #93
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in order to create chances and score goals.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Exploit the space in and around the opponent’s defensive block and create a positional
advantage:
- Avoid two players in a direct line.
- Move and provide a good supporting angle: receive facing forward to play forward when
• Provide vertical or diagonal passing options possible.
- Stay away from the ball when player on the ball has time and space to play forward.
• Triangulate: we position to provide the player on the ball with at least two forward
(diagonal/vertical) passing options on different levels of height and width.
• Rotate: interchange position to create a dynamic advantage.
• Create a numerical advantage in a specific area of the field:
- Position to outnumber opponent in the area around the ball or area away from the ball
• Create overload centrally or wide - Allow more players to attack - penetrations of midfielders or defenders
- Drop midfielders or attackers
• If marked move to open space or move to open the space:
PROVIDE OPTIONS TO PLAY FORWARD • Lose opponent to receive the ball
(RE-)POSITION TO CREATE ADVANTAGE AND RECEIVE THE BALL - Distance from defender in space (get unmarked)/ move between the lines
• Move opponent to receive the ball
- Draw opponent out of defending position to create space for self to receive (requires
• Move or lose opponent when marked explosive
change of direction)
• Move to create space and passing options for teammate to receive
- Draw opponent out of defending position to create space for teammate to exploit and
receive ball
• Make run when player on the ball is facing forward and has no pressure or has pressure but can
play forward
• Make runs behind the defensive line • Use different runs and time run to avoid offside (straight run, curved run, ...)
• Receive the ball facing forward
• Recognize the player on the ball is under pressure and has no immediate options:
• Give immediate support to teammate under
- Above the ball: move towards the ball to create a passing option
pressure U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #94
- Behind the ball: adjust position to create passing option
© 2023 U.S. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared without U.S. Soccer approval
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in order to create chances and score goals.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Recognize and exploit space.
• Drive with the ball to exploit space • Accelerate play through dribble: individually progress the ball into space with change of tempo.
• Attract opponent (draw attention).
• Dribble and look for 1v1 or 2v1 :
-Engage to isolate opponent:
-Eliminate through dribble: take opponent on in 1v1
• Engage opponent: create 1v1 or 2v1 -Eliminate through pass or give and go
BREAK LINES TO ADVANCE ATTACK • Move or hold the ball to attract opponent:
PROGRESS THE BALL FORWARD AND ELIMINATE OPPONENT(S) -Move the opponent, invite pressure to create space for teammate.
• Pass quickly, accurately and with appropriate pace to a free player.
• Find a free player between or behind the lines • Skip a line: recognize opportunity & take risk: look furthest first, look nearest second.
• Pass dictates the action: pass with intent.
• Draw opponent to one side and find space on the opposite side:
• Switch play: pass the ball to opponents’ weak zone - Direct change of point: long pass
- Indirect change of point: short pass
• Provide balance (numbers).
• We all move with the same speed and lose space in between lines that the opponent could
• Push up the defensive line with speed: stay exploit.
connected and compact • Create as high a line as possible.
TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE • GK take high position: stay connected with the backline .
OPPONENT COUNTER - GK anticipate long pass from opponent and adjust quickly.
POSITION TO PROTECT AGAINST COUNTERATTACK • Defensive positioning by the players who are no longer directly involved in moving the ball
forward.
• Create high defensive shape behind the ball • Anticipate losing the ball and occupy positions to defend the opponent’s counterattack.
-Defend the center of the field: block passing lanes
-Lock down the opponent’s outlet(s): mark transition players

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #95
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in order to create chances and score goals.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Move into a position in and around the box to score or assist:
-Forward run behind the opponent’s back line from a high position (attacking position)
-Forward run behind the opponent’s back line from a deeper position (midfield position)
• Separate: time run or quick movement to unmark -Move out of sight to receive
• Counter movement: opposite movement between two players
• Quick movement from opponent to create space
• Disguised pass to manipulate opponent
• Pass quickly, accurately and with appropriate pace:
-through ball or chip ball to player who runs in behind
• Final pass: through ball or combination play -pass to unmarked player in or around the box
• Quick combination play between 2 or more players to find a teammate in a goalscoring position
• Recognize the player in the better position.
FINISH THE ATTACK
CREATE SCORING OPPORTUNITY AND SCORE • Efficient occupation of zones in the box on cross: near post, back post, penalty spot, edge of box
-Time your run in the box.
• Numbers in the box: fill zones in front of goal - Get unmarked or in front of opponent.
- Attack the ball.
• Time the cross in front or behind the backline.
• Cross: into space or player • Recognize space (positioning of goalkeeper and defenders)
-recognize the positions and runs of teammates in penalty box
• Take on 1v1 to create or score • Eliminate opponent through dribble to create goalscoring opportunity
• Shoot from (short/long) distance.
• Finish: use limited touches • Finish off the cross: choose your final touch.
• React quickly on rebounds.

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #96
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

11v11 U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND
FINISHING
PLAYER ACTIONS
A soccer skill, needed to successfully execute a team tactical main- or sub-principle requiring perception,
decision-making, physical and technical execution.
ATTACKING

WITH THE BALL

Controlling

Protecting

Driving

Dribbling

Passing

Shooting

SPACIAL & POSITIONAL AWARENESS

Scanning

Supporting

Adapting body shape

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #97
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in order to create chances and score goals.
PLAYER ACTIONS
A soccer skill, needed to successfully execute a team tactical main- or sub-principle requiring perception, decision-making, physical and technical execution.
PLAYER ACTION DEFINITION
WITH THE BALL
• Receiving and preparing the ball from short passes (distance of 5 to 20 yards)
• Receiving and preparing the ball in such a way that you can immediately go to goal
• Receiving and preparing the ball in such a way that it stays as close to you as possible
• Receiving by moving towards the ball when opponent is close by (attacking the ball)
• Receiving and preparing the ball from a long pass in the air
• Receiving and preparing the ball on the bounce
CONTROLLING • Receiving and preparing the ball on the turn towards the opponent's goal as quickly as possible
• Receiving and playing in 1 touch if you can pass accurately
• Avoiding looking at the ball when receiving and preparing the ball
• Scanning for a free teammate after performing the control
• Scanning for a free teammate before or while receiving and preparing the ball
• Avoiding a long ball from bouncing - receiving before the bounce
• Receiving and playing a long ball in 1 touch if you can pass accurately
• Shielding and maintaining possession of the ball, by placing most of the body between the ball and opponent, keeping the ball on the furthest foot away from the
PROTECTING defender while looking for teammates
• Turning away from and out of reach of your opponent
• Running with the ball, keeping the ball as close as possible to the body
• Avoiding looking at the ball while driving the ball
DRIVING • Keeping your body between the ball and the approaching opponent while driving the ball
• Running as fast as possible with the ball, picking up speed to gain as much time and territory as possible
• Creating space in advance (before controlling) in which you want to drive the ball

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #98
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in order to create chances and score goals.
PLAYER ACTIONS
A soccer skill, needed to successfully execute a team tactical main- or sub-principle requiring perception, decision-making, physical and technical execution.
PLAYER ACTION DEFINITION
WITH THE BALL
• Taking on the opponent
• Reading the body shape of the opponent and engaging on the most obvious/weak side
• Accelerating when eliminating the opponent
• Avoiding looking at the ball while dribbling
DRIBBLING • Keeping your body between the ball and the opponent while dribbling
• Holding off the opponent and creating distance from the opponent
• Dribbling through a change of direction at the right time, or through a change of speed or through a feint
• Dribbling when you can cause direct danger on target
• Playing the ball intentionally with different surfaces to a free teammate, into feet or space, within a distance of 5 to 20 yards
• Playing the ball to the foot so that the player receiving the ball can continue to play forward
• Making a leading pass in front of your teammate, making sure that the teammate can take the ball without having to slow down
• Looking at the player you are passing to when passing
• Trying to take out an opponent with a quick wall pass (give and go) in a small space
PASSING • Making a long pass in the air
• Playing a long ball in space so a teammate can receive the ball while running
• Avoiding passing to a player surrounded by opponents who can be immediately put under pressure
• Playing the cross at the right time and with the right ball speed outside the action area of ​the goalkeeper and the defender
• Disguising the pass
• Striking the ball intentionally with different surfaces from short and medium range (1-10 yards; 11-20 yards) on the goal (finishing)
• Looking at the position of the goalkeeper before shooting at goal, and selecting a target
• Aiming for the far side if you shoot from an angle and the goalkeeper is protecting near post
• Finishing in 1 time/touch when closely marked
SHOOTING • Finishing on the volley / bounce
• Following the ball after the shot
• Dribbling at the goalkeeper when he/she comes out at full speed or when he or she protects the goal well and scoring from the shot becomes difficult
• Chipping the goalkeeper
© 2023 U.S. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared without U.S. Soccer approval • Disguising the finish U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #99
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in order to create chances and score goals.
PLAYER ACTIONS
A soccer skill, needed to successfully execute a team tactical main- or sub-principle requiring perception, decision-making, physical and technical execution.
PLAYER ACTION DEFINITION
SPACIAL & POSITIONAL AWARENESS
• Searching for the ball, teammates and the goal:
-Scanning for a free teammate after performing the control
SCANNING -Scanning for a free teammate before or while receiving and preparing the ball (passing)
-Scanning and avoiding looking at the ball while dribbling
-Scanning and looking at the position of the goalkeeper before shooting at goal, and selecting a target (shooting)
• Looking at the player in possession of the ball
• Finding open space for self and indicating this, verbally or non-verbally, to the player in possession of the ball
• Repositioning after giving a pass (ex. give and go)
• Assessing teammates’ movements and moving off each other
SUPPORTING (POSITIONING) • Unmarking and running behind opponent when a teammate on the ball is looking for options
• Looking to get out of sight from the defender’s vision
• Losing direct opponent by switching positions with a teammate
• Anticipating as the third player who will get the ball after a pass between two teammates
• Adjusting shoulders and hips to be 45 - 90 degrees towards the attacking goal.
ADAPTING BODY SHAPE • While approaching, have an optimal overview of the game situation.

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #100
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING
When we have the ball, we want to play forward through individual actions and short combinations, to play in the attacking half in order to create chances and score goals.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES PLAYER ACTIONS
FIELD PHASE OBJECTIVE
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES WITH THE BALL

• Controlling
• Create appropriate height, width, depth
CREATE ATTACKING SHAPE • Create optimal attacking distances between players • Protecting
DEFENDING HALF

BUILDING UP

• Advance the ball • Driving

• Keep the ball • Provide vertical or diagonal passing options
• Create overload centrally or wide • Dribbling
• Move or lose opponent when marked
PROVIDE OPTIONS TO PLAY FORWARD • Make runs behind the defensive line • Passing
• Give immediate support to teammate under pressure

• Shooting
• Drive with the ball to exploit space
• Engage opponent: create 1v1 or 2v1 SPACIAL & POSITIONAL AWARENESS
BREAK LINES TO ADVANCE ATTACK • Find a free player between or behind the lines
• Switch play: pass the ball to the opponent’s weak zone
CREATING & SCORING

• Push up the defensive line with speed: stay connected and • Scanning
ATTACKING HALF

• Score goal TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE

compact
• Create chance OPPONENT COUNTER • Create high defensive shape behind the ball
• Advance the ball
• Keep the ball
• Separate: time run or quick movement to unmark
• Final pass: through ball or combination play • Supporting
• Numbers in the box: fill in zones in front of goal
FINISH THE ATTACK • Cross into space or player
• Take on 1v1 to create or score • Adapting body shape
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• Finish: use limited touches U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #101
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

11v11 U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND
FINISHING

ATTACKING TO DEFENDING TRANSITION

GAME IDEA

When we lose the ball, we want to regain it early by reacting immediately with maximum intensity.
When we recognize we are unable to pressure the ball, we recover quickly into a defending shape.

TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES

MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES

• Press to regain or prevent progress of the ball

APPLY IMMEDIATE PRESSURE ON THE BALL
• Provide cover and balance: eliminate options

• Drop off and block direct path to goal

DELAY THE COUNTERACTTACK
• Slow down and dictate opponent

• Get numbers back quickly and take defensive position

RECOVER WITH SPEED • Press from behind as quickly as possible
• Stay connected: look to win the second ball

• Create passing option(s): between the lines

TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE THE COUNTER
• Create passing option(s): look to run in behind

• Defend the goal and create conditions to engage

DENY FINISH FROM COUNTERATTACK
• Challenge to protect against a goal attempt

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #102
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING TO DEFENDING TRANSITION

When we lose the ball, we want to regain it early by reacting immediately with maximum intensity.
When we recognize we are unable to pressure the ball, we recover quickly into a defending shape.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Recognize situations when to press or hold and force wide (awareness).
• Win the ball when opportunity to regain (distance, numbers and levels of compactness)
• Nearest player(s):
• Press to regain or prevent progress of the ball -React immediately, reduce space with speed and intensity
-Apply (frontal/diagonal) pressure on the ball: deny switch - stop long ball - prevent forward
pass
-Stay disciplined: no foul
APPLY IMMEDIATE PRESSURE ON THE BALL
REACT QUICKLY TO WIN THE BALL BACK AND STOP OPPONENTS’ FORWARD PROTECT THE NEAREST SPACE: ANTICIPATE SHORT PASSING
PLAY • Teammates collectively reduce space and area around the ball
• Mark outlet players - block passing lines - cover space
• Push up the lines when opposition is forced backwards.
• Provide cover and balance: eliminate options PROTECT THE SPACE IN BEHIND: ANTICIPATE THE LONG BALL
• Central defenders anticipate the long ball when inefficient pressure: read pass and drop
• Wide defenders attach to the backline
• Adjust body position to anticipate opponent’s movement or action.
• Drop-off and protect the center:
-Drop centrally, get narrow and defend in relation to goal
• Drop off and block direct path to goal -Create compact block - numbers between ball and goal (to force play wide)
• Reduce the central space between the backline.
DELAY THE COUNTERATTACK
DROP AND NARROW, REDUCE SPEED OF OPPONENTS TO ALLOW PLAYERS
• Identify and mark the most dangerous player.
TO RECOVER • Slow down the opponent when we are unable to pressure the player on the ball and in a
disadvantage (ex. outnumbered) to allow players to return in the defensive block.
• Slow down and dictate opponent • Dictate direction (force backwards or wide) and speed of play (reduce speed).
• Create equal numbers or overload (in area of the ball): eliminate passing options (2v1 → 1-1).

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #103
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING TO DEFENDING TRANSITION

When we lose the ball, we want to regain it early by reacting immediately with maximum intensity.
When we recognize we are unable to pressure the ball, we recover quickly into a defending shape.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Get numbers back quickly and take defensive • Sprint back to get behind the ball to support teammates.
position • Attach to the backline and defend in relation to the goal.

• Sprint back and put pressure on the opponent in possession:

RECOVER WITH SPEED • Press from behind as quickly as possible -Prevent the opponent from playing forward or dribbling with the ball
SPRINT BACK TO GET BALANCED, ORGANIZED AND APPLY PRESSURE -Try to recover the ball (don’t give up)
• Recover quickly to defend the long ball (create numbers around the ball).
• Stay connected: look to win the second ball • Position or mark to prevent the opponent from playing forward after lay-off.
• Pressure to regain the ball.
• Anticipate the moment when team wins the ball back :
-Stop defending
• Create passing option(s): between the lines -Unmark from defender
TAKE COUNTERMEASURES -Position (diagonally) between the lines to set up a possible counter-attack
POSITION TO PREPARE THE COUNTERATTACK
• Anticipate the moment when team wins the ball back .
• Create passing option(s): look to run in behind • Stop defending and position to create the opportunity to make a run in behind the defensive
line.

• Be patient and don’t commit too early (recognize distance from goal, wait for teammates).
• Defend the goal and create conditions to engage • Isolate opponent on the ball when possible: 2v1 → 1-1
DENY FINISH FROM COUNTERATTACK
DENY SCORING OPPORTUNITIY AND PREVENT SCORING
• Challenge with strong determination: block shot to tackle - intercept to prevent assist
• Challenge to protect against a goal attempt -When we are organized and have a numerical advantage
-When opponent is in shooting distance

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #104
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

ATTACKING TO DEFENDING TRANSITION

When we lose the ball, we want to regain it early by reacting immediately with maximum intensity.
When we recognize we are unable to pressure the ball, we recover quickly into a defending shape.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES PLAYER ACTIONS
FIELD PHASE OBJECTIVE
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES AGAINST THE BALL
• Intercepting
• Regain the ball
• Pressing
PREVENTING BUILD UP

• Prevent the opponent from

• Press to regain or prevent progress of the ball
ATTACING HALF

playing forward APPLY IMMEDIATE PRESSURE ON THE BALL • Challenging

• Deny penetration from the • Provide cover and balance: eliminate options
dribble • Delaying
• Reducing time and space
• Block the shot
SPACIAL & POSITIONAL AWARENESS

• Drop off and block direct path to goal • Scanning

DELAY THE COUNTERATTACK
• Slow down and dictate opponent
• Adapting body shape

• Get numbers back quickly and take defensive position

DENYING CHANCES & SCORING

• Prevent goal
• Deny a chance RECOVER WITH SPEED • Press from behind as quickly as possible
DEFENDING HALF

• Regain the ball • Stay connected: look to win the second ball
• Prevent the opponent from • Covering
playing forward • Create passing option(s): between the lines
TAKE COUNTERMEASURES
• Deny penetration from the • Create passing option(s): look to run in behind
dribble
• Reducing time and space

• Defend the goal and create conditions to engage

DENY THE FINISH
• Challenge to protect against a goal attempt • Marking

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #105
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

11v11 U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND
FINISHING
DEFENDING
GAME IDEA

When we do not have the ball, we want to prevent the opponent from playing forward and regain the ball as
high up the field as possible through compactness and pressing.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES
• Make team compact: vertical and horizontal
- (Re-) Position to create a high front line
CREATE DEFENDING SHAPE - (Re-) Position to create a high defensive line

• Create optimal defending distances between players

• Move as a collective unit: make play predictable

• Initiate pressure on the opponent with the ball

• Engage when chance of regaining the ball

BUILD PRESSURE ON THE BALL
• Provide cover and balance: eliminate passing options

• Prevent the switch: keep opponent on one side

• Protect space in behind: anticipate long ball

• Immediately (re-) apply pressure on the ball

RECOVER WHEN PRESSURE IS BROKEN • Delay attack and regain defensive shape

• Look to intercept pass or win second ball

• Create passing option(s): between the lines

TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE TO COUNTER
• Create passing option(s): look to run in behind

• Get narrow and close the center: denying the through ball

• Marking and tracking opponent

DENY THE FINISH • Deny the cross

• Defending the cross: protect the width of the goal

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• U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #106
Challenge to protect against goal attempt
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING
When we do not have the ball, we want to prevent the opponent from playing forward and regain the ball as high up the field as possible through compactness and
pressing.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Create a defensive block and reduce passing options for the opponent on the ball
- as high as possible

• Make team compact: vertical and horizontal • Attacking players (re-)position to create a high line of confrontation
• Position to block passing lanes, make play predictable and build pressure
- (Re-) Position to create a high front line
- (Re-) Position to create a high defensive • Center backs and/or fullbacks take a high defending position to support compactness
CREATE DEFENDING SHAPE line - Reduce space between different lines of the team
POSITION TO CREATE COMPACT TEAM ORGANIZATION AND - Manage offside: central defender closest to the ball creates the offside line (if in own half)
REDUCE SPACE
• High position of the goalkeeper to stay connected with the backline

• Create relationships - connections between players through spacing and distances :

• Create optimal defending distances between - Reduce options to penetrate with the ball
players - Ensure cover
- Allow for interception

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #107
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING
When we do not have the ball, we want to prevent the opponent from playing forward and regain the ball as high up the field as possible through compactness and
pressing.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Move relative to the position of the ball while maintaining optimal distances between players:
- Reduce time and space for the opponent on the ball
- Shift and slide: no crossover with nearest teammate
• Move as a collective unit: make play - Step: when the the ball is played backwards or when pressure on the ball
predictable • Direct the player on the ball:
- Reduce the options for the opponent on the ball and force to one area :
- Block passing lanes
- Allow passes to pressing area
• Nearest player pressures the ball:
- Prevent opponent from playing forward
• Initiate pressure on the opponent with the ball - Limit time on the ball
- Force opponent to look down
- Force to make mistake
BUILD PRESSURE ON THE BALL
CREATE CONDITIONS TO WIN THE BALL OR TO PREVENT • Engage in the identified situations:
FORWARD PLAY • Engage when chance of regaining the ball - Step out and intercept when possible: for example - slow pass, bad touch,...
- 1v1: don’t get eliminated by dribble, touch or pass
• Block immediate passing options when teammate puts pressure on the ball
• Provide cover and balance: eliminate passing - Cover by the closest player to prevent forward passes / progression: mark, front or track
options - Weakside players move centrally
- Bring numbers to the area / outnumber the opponent/bring numbers around the ball
• Prevent the switch: keep opponent on one • Bring numbers around the ball
side • Keep opponent locked and stop from getting out of the area

• Anticipate the long ball behind the defensive line in case of inefficient pressure
- Adjust body shape
• Protect space in behind: anticipate long ball - Hold the line when pressure on the ball
- Drop when no pressure on the ball
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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #108
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING
When we do not have the ball, we want to prevent the opponent from playing forward and regain the ball as high up the field as possible through compactness and
pressing.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Re-apply pressure on opponent when line is broken:
- From behind: chase the player in possession and attempt to win the ball back without fouling
• Immediately (re-) apply pressure on the ball - In front: step up and press when cover is present
• Recover from switch of play:
- Strong shift of the team when opponent was able to switch the play
• Slow down the opponent’s attack : drop and narrow.
RECOVER WHEN PRESSURE IS BROKEN • Reduce speed of opponent to allow teammates to recover.
RE-CREATE CONDITIONS TO WIN THE BALL AND REGAIN
• Recover with numbers between the ball and the goal.
COMPACTNESS • Delay attack and regain defensive shape - outnumber opponent when possible
- get organized
• Track and/or mark the most dangerous players.
• When the line is broken by the long ball: defending players
• Look to intercept pass or win second ball - Drop and narrow together
- Compete for the second ball
• Anticipate the moment when team wins the ball back and set for transition :
- Stop defending
TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE TO • Create passing option(s): between the lines - Unmark from defender
COUNTER - Scan field and position (diagonally) between the lines to set up a possible counter-attack
POSITION TO PREPARE THE COUNTERATTACK
• Anticipate the moment when team wins the ball back .
• Create passing option(s): look to run in behind • Stop defending and position to create the opportunity to make a run in behind the defensive line.

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #109
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING
When we do not have the ball, we want to prevent the opponent from playing forward and regain the ball as high up the field as possible through compactness and
pressing.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION
• Always pressure the player on the ball: reduce time, space and options for the opponent on the ball
• Prevent opponent from passing and making runs to receive behind the defensive line
• Get narrow and close the center: denying the • Reduce space between teammates: narrow when closer to goal
through ball -Get numbers in the central areas
-Always provide protection for center backs by fronting them
-Drive opponent’s offensive play towards wide areas
• Close marking of direct opponent in zone:
-Split-vision: keep eye on ball and opponent
• Change marking:
• Marking and tracking opponent -Scan your surroundings and communicate
-Stay in your defensive zone when the opponent changes position
-Pass on opponent to teammate or mark opponent coming from another zone
• Switch to player-marking: when necessary, switch from zonal marking to player marking
DENY THE FINISH • Defend the cross with support from midfielder or winger.
PREVENT OPPONENT FROM SCORING AND CREATING SCORING
OPPORTUNITIES
• Deny the cross -Deny cross into space or player.
-Center backs stay in central position.
• Get organized and increase the protection in front of the goal on the cross:
-Weakside fullback is connecting to the backline
-Occupy strategic zones
• Defending the cross: protect the width of the
• Close marking of direct opponent:
goal -Split-vision: keep eye on ball and opponent
• Challenge: be first on the ball
-Aggressiveness
• Engage and commit when chance of attempt on goal
-Don’t get eliminated by dribble
• Challenge to protect against goal attempt -Block shot
-Win the second ball
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-Clearance U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #110
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING
When we do not have the ball, we want to prevent the opponent from playing forward and regain the ball as high up the field as possible through compactness and pressing.

PLAYER ACTIONS
A soccer skill, needed to successfully execute a team tactical main- or sub-principle requiring perception, decision-making, physical and technical execution.
PLAYER ACTION DEFINITION

AGAINST THE BALL

• Winning or deflecting the ball, if not stay in position
• Deflecting an opponent’s pass away from the intended target
INTERCEPTING • Staying in possession of the ball after stealing it and continuing with an attacking action
• Playing in one touch to a teammate
• Intercepting the ball as high as possible (high point) on a long (high) ball
• Running to the opponent who is about to receive the ball (approx. 2 yards distance) while the ball is moving (to reduce the space for the opponent or force error)
PRESSING • Having fast approach but slow arrival
• Approach is forcing into desired area
• Taking good defensive posture (on toes, knees are bent, staggered stance, …) that allows to start the 1v1 in favorable conditions
• Always look at the ball
CHALLENGING • Staying on your feet
• Retaining possession of the ball after winning the duel
• If you are eliminated, don't give up, challenge again immediately
• Slowing down, reducing speed from the opponent's action
DELAYING • Driving the player on the ball to the outside (away from goal)

BLOCK THE SHOT • Getting in between the ball and the defending goal to redirect the ball away from goal

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #111
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING
When we do not have the ball, we want to prevent the opponent from playing forward and regain the ball as high up the field as possible through compactness and pressing.

PLAYER ACTIONS
A soccer skill, needed to successfully execute a team tactical main- or sub-principle requiring perception, decision-making, physical and technical execution.
PLAYER ACTION DEFINITION

SPACIAL & POSITIONAL AWARENESS

SCANNING • Searching for the ball, nearest teammates and nearest opponents in relationship to the goal we are protecting

ADAPTING BODY SHAPE • Adjusting shoulders and hips to be 45 - 90 degrees towards the defending goal

• Positioning at the appropriate distance from the challenging teammate, allowing to quickly put pressure again if needed
COVERING • Preventing the opponent behind your back (between the lines) from being an option
• Preventing direct opponent from receiving the ball in favorable circumstances by positioning next to the opponent (proactive stance)
MARKING • Trying to look at both the ball and direct opponent
• Mark closer when closer to goal.

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #112
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING
When we do not have the ball, we want to prevent the opponent from playing forward and regain the ball as high up the field as possible through compactness and
pressing.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES PLAYER ACTIONS
FIELD PHASE OBJECTIVE
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES AGAINST THE BALL
• Intercepting
• Make team compact: vertical and horizontal
• Regain the ball • Pressing
-(Re-) Position to create a high front line
PREVENTING BUILD UP

• Prevent the opponent from

CREATE DEFENDING SHAPE -(Re-) Position to create high defensive line • Challenging
ATTACING HALF

playing forward
• Deny penetration from the • Create optimal defending distances between
• Delaying
dribble players
• Reducing time and space • Block the shot
• Move as a collective unit: make play predictable SPACIAL & POSITIONAL AWARENESS
• Initiate pressure on the opponent with the ball
• Engage when chance of regaining the ball • Scanning
BUILD PRESSURE ON THE BALL • Provide cover and balance: eliminate passing
options
• Prevent the switch: keep opponent on one side
• Adapting body shape
• Protect space in behind: anticipate long ball
• Immediately (re-) apply pressure on the ball
DENYING CHANCES & SCORING

• Prevent goal
• Deny a chance RECOVER WHEN PRESSURE IS BROKEN • Delay attack and regain defensive shape
• Covering
DEFENDING HALF

• Regain the ball • Look to intercept pass or win second ball

• Prevent the opponent from
playing forward TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE TO • Create passing option(s): between the lines
• Deny penetration from the COUNTER • Create passing option(s): run in behind
dribble
• Reducing time and space • Get narrow and close the center: denying the
through ball
• Marking and tracking opponent • Marking
DENY THE FINISH
• Deny the cross
© 2023 U.S. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared without U.S. Soccer approval
• Defending the cross: protect the width
U.S. Soccer of the
Player goal
Development Framework Slide #113
U.S. SOCCER FEDERATION - TECHNICAL PLAN

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

11v11 U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND
FINISHING
DEFENDING TO ATTACKING TRANSITION
GAME IDEA

When we regain the ball, we immediately think and play forward, look to attack at maximum
speed in order to create chances and score goals.

When we recognize we cannot play forward, we keep the ball and move into our attacking shape.

TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES

MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES
• First action forward
PLAY FORWARD QUICKLY
• Continue to play forward

• Play out of pressure

SECURE THE BALL
• Keep the ball and initiate build up

• Provide support in front of the ball

JOIN THE ATTACK WITH SPEED • Provide as much width as necessary
• Provide support behind the ball

• Push up the defensive line with speed: stay

TAKE COUNTERMEASURES : ANTICIPATE THE
connected and compact
COUNTER
• Create prevention shape behind the ball

• Create and exploit space for self or teammate

FINISH THE COUNTERATTACK AS FAST AS POSSIBLE • Attack space or engage opponent

• Recognize player in a better position to score

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #114

• Finish: use limited touches
© 2023 U.S. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared without U.S. Soccer approval
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING TO ATTACKING
When we regain the ball, we immediately think and play forward, look to attack at maximum speed in order to create chances and score goals. When we recognize we cannot play forward,
we keep the ball and move into our attacking shape.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES

MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION

• Start attacking transition immediately with forward action:
- Pass forward into open space or feet to (highest) transition player (vertical / diagonal)
• First action forward - Touch forward and run or dribble aggressively at maximum speed when space
• GK distribution: throw/volley into space or feet
• Continue to progress the ball forward at speed to prevent the opponent from returning into
PLAY FORWARD QUICKLY defensive shape: dribble or pass
PLAY FORWARD WITH AS FEW PASSES AS POSSIBLE
• Play with limited touches to increase the speed of the transition:
• Continue to play forward - Direct: open body shape to receive the ball facing forward or turn when time on the ball
- Indirect: lay-off / playing backwards to supporting teammate (3rd man running)
• Stay central if possible
• Take advantage of space behind the opponent’s backline - pass behind
• Shield the ball when pressure from opponent
• Play out of pressure • Move the ball out of the zone when possession is regained to escape counter press
SECURE THE BALL • Play sideways or backwards when unable to dribble or pass forward (or draw foul)
ESCAPE COUNTERPRESS FROM CLOSEST OPPONENT(S) • Keep possession when opponent is balanced and organized
• Keep the ball: initiate build up
• Recognize risk vs reward: priority is to secure possession
• Move into attacking shape
• Sprint forward and commit numbers into the attacking half
• Provide support in front of the ball • Get players in front of the ball as quickly as possible to attack the backline of the opponent
• Provide a passing option: make a run in behind
JOIN THE ATTACK WITH SPEED • Occupy all three central-vertical channels
SPRINT FORWARD TO ATTACK OR SUPPORT • Provide as much width as possible • Restrict runs to width of penalty area, when possible, to facilitate quick passing, limit risk of
interception, and create direct chance on goal
• Position to enable the attack to continue by creating passing options behind the ball
• Provide support behind the ball • Recycle the attack when unable to continue the counter
© 2023 U.S. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared without U.S. Soccer approval U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #115
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING TO ATTACKING
When we regain the ball, we immediately think and play forward, look to attack at maximum speed in order to create chances and score goals. When we recognize we cannot play forward,
we keep the ball and move into our attacking shape.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES

MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES DEFINITION

• Provide balance (numbers).
• Push up the defensive line with speed: stay
• Close space in between lines that the opponent could exploit.
connected and compact
TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE THE • Create as high a line as possible.
COUNTER • Defensive positioning with a specific amount of players
POSITION TO PROTEXT AGAINST COUNTERATTACK • Create prevention shape behind the ball -Defend the center of the field: block passing lines
-Lock down the opponent’s outlet(s): mark transition players
-GK take high position: stay connected with the backline
• Separate from opponent and receive between the lines.
• Create and exploit space for self or teammate • Exploit space behind opponent backline: make a run to receive in behind.
• Make a run to free up space for teammate to receive.
• Dribble at speed into open space:
-Invite pressure to create (more) space for teammate(s)
FINISH THE COUNTERATTACK AS FAST AS • Attack space or engage opponent • Dribble at speed to isolate defender:
POSSIBLE -Attract to free up teammate (2v1)
CREATE SCORING OPPORTUNITY AND SCORE -Eliminate defender or create separation and shoot (1v1)
• Keep composure (decision at full speed)
• Recognize player in a better position to score • Recognize the right moment to pass to a teammate in a better position to score or assist
- We attack/occupy different areas in the box
• Finish: use limited touches • Select the best surface and shoot on goal with a minimal touches.

© 2023 U.S. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared without U.S. Soccer approval

U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #116
U15 - U16
PROGRESSION PHASE II
SCANNING, RECEIVING, DRIBBLING, SHORT COMBINATION PLAY AND FINISHING

DEFENDING TO ATTACKING
When we regain the ball, we immediately think and play forward, look to attack at maximum speed in order to create chances and score goals.
When we recognize we cannot play forward, we keep the ball and move into our attacking shape.
TEAM TACTICAL PRINCIPLES PLAYER ACTIONS
FIELD PHASE OBJECTIVE
MAIN PRINCIPLES SUB PRINCIPLES WITH THE BALL

• First action forward • Controlling

PLAY FORWARD QUICKLY
• Continue to play forward
DEFENDING HALF

• Protecting
BUILDING UP

• Advance the ball

• Keep the ball
• Driving
• Play out of pressure
SECURE THE BALL
• Keep the ball and initiate build up
• Dribbling

• Passing
• Provide support in front of the ball
JOIN THE ATTACK WITH SPEED • Provide as much width as possible • Shooting
• Provide support behind the ball
SPACIAL & POSITIONAL AWARENESS

• Push up the defensive line with speed: stay connected and

CREATING & SCORING

compact
ATTACKING HALF

• Score goal TAKE COUNTERMEASURES: ANTICIPATE THE COUNTER

• Create chance • Create prevention shape behind the ball • Scanning
• Advance the ball
• Keep the ball

• Create and exploit space for self or teammate • Supporting

• Attack space or engage the opponent
FINISH THE COUNTERATTACK
• Recognize player in better position to score
• Finish: use limited touches • Adapting body shape

© 2023 U.S. Soccer CONFIDENTIAL-Not to be shared without U.S. Soccer approval U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #117
U.S. SOCCER PLAYER DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

REFERENCES

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U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework Slide #118