Below is the first training session as seen at the Ajax U19 Team Training. Former Everton footballer John Heitinga is now managing at this level.
How it works?
Set up: The playing area is divided into three sections. In the middle section one neutral player will work with the team in possession in an attempt to switch play or to retain possession of the ball. In either end zone there is a 3v3 plus 1. The neutral player in the end zone at either end of the playing area will work with the team in possession.
Dimensions: 25x20 Full Playing Area (Adjust to suit level of players).
Progress: Add challenge by reducing number of touches players are permitted to take whilst in possession. This can include limiting the touches exclusively for the neutral players.
DOWNLOAD AN MP4 VIDEO SHOWING THIS SESSION
Click on the link below to download a full HD video showing this training session in action. The video is playable on Mobile, PC, Mac and Ipad.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD AJAX ACADEMY TRAINING SESSION 1 VIDEO
How it works?
Set up: The playing area is divided into two sections. One neutral player will work with the team in possession in the central playing area, this player is free to move between the two playing zones. Two further neutral players will work with the team in possession from side zones marked in yellow below. Two goals are placed back to back in the center of the central zone with goalkeepers.
Dimensions: 20x30 Full Playing Area (Adjust to suit level of players).
Progress: Limit the number of touches exclusively for the neutral players.
How it works?
Set up: 2v2 in the central zone with two support players per team placed around the playing area.
Dimensions: Full Playing Area 12x18 (Adjust to suit level of players).
Progress: Limit the number of touches exclusively for the support players.
How it works?
Set up: 2v2 in the central zone with two support players per team placed around the playing area in scoring zones. This is a progression to session 3 with target goals added in. Goals may only be scored after central players combine with support players.
Dimensions: Full Playing Area 12x18 (Adjust to suit level of players).
Progress: Limit the number of touches exclusively for the support players.
How it works?
Set up: For this practice you will need to watch the video on the link below the session image! Four players will continuously pass in the set combination shown within the video.
Dimensions: 8 yards between passing stations (Adjust to suit level of players).
Progress: Limit the number of touches.
How it works?
Set up: 4v4 plus 2. In the active zone a 3v3 plus 1. In the non active zone a 1v1 plus one. The objective for the team in possession is to switch the ball into the non active zone before quickly sending two players in to support play in order to retain possession once again.
Dimensions: 22x20 (Adjust to suit level of players).
Progress: Limit the number of touches for neutral players.
