94-P3 · Technical practice · U9–U11

The Directional 1st Touch Square

The Directional 1st Touch Square is a technical practice for U9–U11 teams (10 players, 20 × 20 yards) that works on passing, turning and combinations.

This technical practice focuses on improving directional first touches and passing.

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The Directional 1st Touch Square: still from the Touchtight coaching video 1:15
Age group
U9–U11
Players
10 players
Area
20 × 20 yards (1/8 Pitch)
Time
15–30 minutes
Goalkeeper
No
Coaches
1
Practice type
Technical practice
Coach level
Beginner (D Licence)

How it's set up

This technical practice takes place in a 20 by 20-yard area and focuses on developing directional 1st touches. We setup by creating two 4 by 4-yard squares, with cones and poles placed as shown in the session image. To begin, the first player (4) will pass to the central player (10) who must take their first touch into the square. They will drive forward and pass the ball to the end player (11) who’s first touch must be through the cone gate. The sequence is then repeated from the opposite side, with players following their passes to the next station.

Setup diagram for The Directional 1st Touch Square: pitch area, player positions and movements
Setup diagram · tap to enlarge

Key coaching points

  1. Focus on directional first touches
  2. Maintain control of the ball - keep it within your area
  3. Body shape to receive - open body up to increase speed into new direction

Also in the full practice

  • 1 progression to make it harder as your players improveIn Club
  • 3 player questions to check understanding during the practiceIn Club
  • The coach-led video (1:15) how to set it up and deliver itIn Club
  • Add it to your team's Dugout drop it into a session plan with your warm-up and gameIn Club

Run it with your team.

Watch 94-P3 in full, then add it to your next session. It's one of over 1,000 practices in the Touchtight Club library.

Watch the full video ↗