Details
Written by: Coach Administrator
Category: Coaches

Training Sessions/Practices

Updated: 8/19/25

Training Session Plan

  • Stage 0: Prep, Cone Setup, & Check-in
    • Focus on 1-2 skills that are supported by the entire Play Practice Play training session. Example skills include keeping possession (dribbling), restarts (throw-ins, goal kicks, kickoffs, corner kicks), and heads-up passing (spreading out, running into space/openings).
    • Plan your activities ahead.
      • In AYSOU's training online (My Training), you can download your coach book that includes set plans/activities for you to use. Look to the Document Library area in AYSOU.
      • This attached guide can help you map out your Play Practice Play (here).
    • Set up cones for your activities.
      • Feel free to write on the cones; placing numbers on cones can streamline your warmups and activities.
  • Stage 1: Small-Sided Game(s) (Play)
    • First play session: explain and show your focus on 1-2 skills.
    • For older players, it is good to have them do stretches or FIFA 11 Plus (here) before they jump in to join the starting game.
    • Get the game set up and running, adding players into the game as they arrive.
  • Stage 2: Small Activity (Practice)
    • First practice session: reinforce the same 1-2 skills from the first play.
    • Likely can be done in the same cone setup or grid; you can set up channels for movement of players from one area to another.
    • You can feel free to do activities found in the AYSO online training or here (K-2nd) (3rd/4th) (5/6th+).
  • Stage 3: Backup/Additional Activity (Practice)
    • Second practice session, if necessary: reinforce the same 1-2 skills from the first play.
    • It can be helpful to have another backup activity in case you need to pivot.
  • Stage 4: Game-Like Activity (Play)
    • Second play session: reinforce the same 1-2 skills from the first play.
    • This would be 10-15 min at the end of the practice and is often similar to a scrimmage. The activity should focus on what you covered earlier, focusing players on applying the items taught in a game-like situation.

Training Session (Practice) Guidance

The head coach makes the call on the training session location and time. Ideally, the head coach works with the majority and the assistant coach to find the best time & place.

Training Session Duration

Each coach should ensure they offer at least one training session per week, again, ideally at a time & location that works for the majority. Remember to set up your sessions in Sports Connect (picture guide here). Below are the max training sessions per week when the team has a Saturday game that week. NOTE: When you do not have a game in the week, you can add one more training session.

  • 7/8th Grade divisions - 2 training sessions per week for 1½ hours.
  • 5/6th Grade divisions - 2 training sessions per week for 1 hour.
  • 3/4th Grade divisions - 2 training sessions per week for 1 hour.
  • 2nd Grade divisions - 1 training session per week for 1 hour.
  • 1st Grade divisions - 1 training session per week for 1 hour.
  • Kinder divisions - 1 training session per week during the first 30 min on game day.

Team's Training Session Equipment

  • 2 New Game Balls.
  • 6+ Practice Balls.
  • ~30 disc cones (multiple colors available).
  • ~6 Tall Cones.
  • Soccer Ball Bag.
  • Team Bag.
  • First Aid Kit & Ice Pack.
  • Primary Color Pennies (or reversible).
  • Secondary Color Pinnies (if not reversible).
  • In some cases we have pop-up goals; please ask.
  • Coach equipment like whistles & hats is provided on request.

Missing Equipment? Team equipment is often handed out at coach training events or posted in the calendar as team equipment distribution. All team equipment needs to be returned after spring. You can contact the equipment manager to schedule a return or drop off the equipment at the sheds on the last game days.

Training Session Locations

Coaches OR Managers...
  1. Pick a school or park location that is best for both coaches.
    1. NOTICE: All turf (like High School, G3, etc.), all OSU property, and all Parks and Recreation Reservable Spaces (like Crystal Lake Sports Fields) are locations with extra usage costs and insurance coverage requirements for approved use. If you need to use one of these types of locations, contact Luke to get approval before use.
  2. Check with the volunteers to narrow down the training session day(s) and time(s).
  3. Confirm with parents to see if the selected date, time, & location will work for the majority.
  4. Set up your practices in Sports Connect (Picture Guide: here)
  5. See the info below for each location

Most of the time you will have the luck of the draw in public spaces. AYSO has insurance for all registered individuals involved in most locations with a grass surface.