AGE GROUP PRIORITIES

Phoenix Rush has developed an age specific training curriculum for our players and coaches.This allows a blueprint for all our coaching staff, develops a continuity amongst age groups and sets specific training priorities and objectives which connects each phase of teaching process. 

U8-U10 Age Group

The U8 age group is the first year of competitive soccer within Phoenix Rush. Therefore each training session will focus on building a strong individual foundation of skill by developing good training habits and working on the technical aspects of the game in 6 v 6 format.

High Priorities:

• Make every player technically confident on the ball with both feet
• Develop good training habits
• Make training fun and competitive
• Dribbling to develop the function of moves

U11 Age Group

The U11 age group continues the training priorities created in the U10 age group. However, the main focus of this age group is the 1v1 dual between players. High pressure will be introduced earlier in the sessions.

High Priorities:

• Advanced Dribbling to beat the defender
• Passing/receiving - 1st touch
• Finishing

U12 Age Group

The U12 age group is an overlap of the U11 age group and every session will encompass the continued development of individual skill on the ball. However, the main focus is the introduction of play within small groups.

High Priorities:

• Passing/receiving and striking the ball (for distance, crossing; flighted balls)
• Combination play (2v1, 2v2, 3v2, 3v3) when to pass vs when to dribble
• Small Group Defending - Lose it get it back; everyone attacks everyone defends
• Communication

U13/U14 Age Group

At the U13/U14 Age Group there is still an emphasis on small group play. However, it will build into larger group play. The playing format is 11v11 at this age group.

High Priorities:

• Possession with a purpose
• Penetration Play
• Attacking Shape
• Advanced combination play (short-short-long, up-back-thru, 3rd man runs).
• Defending Shape

U15 and above Age Group

At the U15 Above Age Group, the focus is now squarely upon large group play and finding success within the full game (11v11). While individual player development is still important, the roles within the team and overall team development has now come to the forefront.

High Priorities:

• Rhythm of Play
• Speed of Play
• Large Group Defensive Tactics (high pressure, low pressure, pressing)
• Advanced combination play