HOW TO "CREATE YOUR OWN SESSION"
(note: need to have Adobe Reader/ Acrobat installed; can be downloaded for free HERE)
1. Download MFA SAP SESSION PLAN TEMPLATE and open in Adobe Acrobat
2. Select images from activity library below for each session component that you would like to include in your session. 'Save as' images into your file
3. Using downloaded session plan template on Adobe Reader/ Acrobat (step 1), select on image tile on PDF for relevant session component.
4. Using saved images within files (step 2), select image of chosen activity to input into session. Repeat step for all relevant session components.
5. Once all session component images are included and session is complete, save as your own session and use for your own coaching!
FULL LIBRARY OF ACTIVITIES
While we have shared our example sessions, the most important part of coaching is that you design and deliver your session to cater for the needs and abilities of your players. As such, we have created this "Create Your Own Session" tool with a library of activities to choose from for each relevant session component. This library will be continually developed so keep an eye out for more activities as they get added in.
- FUNctional Activity
This is a FUN activity with lots of football specific movements in the first 5-10 minutes of the practical session with all players involved and the focus on developing fundamental movement actions at high speed. FUNctional Activities may include: games, circuits or juggling tasks that are FUN and linked to the core skill.
- Recognition Phase: Game
A game complying with the rules of the real game and free of any specific conditions for the first five minutes to encourage players to showcase freedom of expression; there should be two goals and goalkeepers protecting each goal to reflect the real game. After the first five minutes, the coach can introduce a scoring system as an incentive to bring about desired actions but does not restrict them from freedom of expression. For example, 1 point for a normal goal and 3 points can be awarded if the player scores after beating an opponent in a 1v1 duel.
- Intervention: Skill Breakdown
Opportunity to develop or refine technical competence with the core skills broken down in practice activities that closely resemble the conditions of the real game. Demonstrations by the coach or model player are encouraged to support learning functional technical skills.
IMPORTANT
Whilst we have created these resources for your use, what you deliver on the pitch needs to cater for the needs and abilities of your players.
To assist you in this, we highly recommend that you undertake a MFA Coach Development Opportunity. Coaches at all levels play a crucial role in ensuring that football is an enjoyable experience for everyone, as well as laying the foundation for the development of better players. As such, our Coach Development opportunities have been designed to support you in whatever role you have whether it be in junior, youth or senior football.
Click HERE for more information on our MFA Coach Development Opportunities and to find which course will be right for you, your coaching journey and the players you are working with.