Saturday, May 05, 2007

Soccer Tactics - Learning By Watching

We all watch live soccer games in the stadium or on TV. Some of us even watch taped classics. When we watch as a supporter of a specific team, or simply as a fan of the sport, we get totally immersed in the competitive aspect, in the drama unfolding, in the great plays, the goals, the referees. It's fun, it's excitement and it is what makes it the beautiful game.

There is another way we can watch soccer games, through the eyes of the learning coach. And learn we can. Instead of reading up on particular team's strategies and coaches, why not watch the strategy, the tactical manouvering, the coaching adjustments unfold before your very own eyes.

It is a matter of mindset and discipline to watch a game and learn tactics. You need to pretend that you are scouting the two teams you are watching.

Try to figure out their formations, not by what the reporter tells you, but by what you see. Write it down.

Then look at defensive and offensive moves of each team. these moves are the result of the game strategy and tactics, they just don't happen. Professional coaches also have a game plan.

If you know something about the teams, like the playmakers, the scoring threats, the unbeatable defender, the weak spots, that will help.

Remember also the basic objectives of each team: Score goals and prevent the other team from scoring. So what are the defensive tactics. How is the other team trying to crack the opposing defense. How are they trying to get players into scoring positions.

Try to notice transition plays - fast or slow. Vertical or horizontal build-ups? Possession game or fast break attack? Lots of switching side of attack or flooding one side? Overlapping or not. And so on.

Try to read each team's game plan and watch the opponent adjust. Take notes. Before your next practice, decide if something you saw is relevant for your team. Incorporate it into practice and try it in the next game.

Learning By Watching - one interesting way of developing coaching skills.




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