I am shocked to see that coaches do not use a soccer field diagram to teach the kids various soccer formations. Or else when they do, they don’t succeed in making the kids realize the importance of 4 key positions. These 4 positions are Forwards, Midfielders, Defenders, and the Goalie. Let’s individually talk about these.
Forwards: These are the players who place themselves by the opponent’s goal. Their task is to turn the passes into goals that other players at several positions in field make. Because they will be the ones who make maximum shoots to the goal, they need to be very tough. Its significance is greatest even when they are just okay in other talents.
Nonetheless, the other players shall apparently keep shifting from one position to a different position. Forward players when playing in the middle are known as strikers and when playing close to the touch lines, they are called wings. Yet, consistent with main role as forwards, they should be physically strong and have powerful shooting toes.
Mid-fielders: Those players who play in the middle of the field are called as mid-fielders. Their role is to grab the ball, pass it to the forwards so that they can further score the goals. They are generally 5 to 6 in number. In the soccer field diagram, make sure their position is clearly defined.
The concentration of the coach should be on improving the tackling and dribbling skills of the players. This is important from the point of view of taking the ball from the opposition and hence facilitating the attacks on opposition. Apart from this, they should be good at passing the ball. These are crucial soccer positions on the field diagram.
Defenders: These are players who save the attacks on their goals and hence the name defenders. As you can visualize, their position is crucial. They are about 3 to 5 in number and remain close to the goal to protect it.
Also, their task is to resume the ball from the goalkeeper and then pass it to the players. One skill that is primary to their armory is kicking the ball to far off midfielders and therefore the coach must help them develop this ability.
Goalie: This is the person who defends the goal post and never allows the attacks to convert to goals. When other players are not able to stop the attack, the goalie must use all his skills to avert the goal.
Since the goalie has the advantage of using his or her hands, the coach should use his creativity to invent special soccer tactics, drills and exercises that help him make the most of it.
Now that you know this, create a soccer field diagram and help your players understand it. This will help them in appreciating the importance and requirements of every position. Our youth soccer coaching community has several useful newsletters, articles, and videos. Enroll today to make the most of them and rise in your coaching career.
Andre Botelho is the author of "The Expert Youth Soccer Coaching Guide" and he's a recognized expert in the subject of youth soccer coaching. Learn how to explode your players' skills and make coaching sessions fun in less than 29 days! Download your free pdf guide at: Soccer Training.