The Best Soccer Formation For Youth Players
May 27th, 2010
In adult leagues, there are many types of formations used by coaches. These include the 3-3-4, the 4-4-2, the 3-2-5, and many others. Youth players have had the greatest success with one formation in particular. This article gives soccer training tips on that formation.
New soccer coaches are often confused as to how to set up their players on the field. It shouldn’t be something to be concerned about. True, there are many formations for many different situations, but in the beginning, youth players don’t want to have to deal with the roles of learning so many tactics. If you stick with the 4-3-3, the players will grow into their positions as this is an easy formation for them to comprehend and it’s an easy formation to teach.
The 4-3-3 formation utilizes four defenders, three halfbacks, and three forwards. This formation gives any team a strong defense. With four defenders, two are typically used on the wings to mark opposing attackers in a man-to-man situation. The stopper defensive position marks the opposing team’s center forward and the sweeper’s job is to defend against any player that breaks through the other defenders.
The 4-3-3 enables all players to feel as if they are a part of the attack. Once a ball is controlled, any player who has it, including the goalkeeper, should look for an open teammate to continue or start an attack. Ideally, the 4-3-3 is suited for passing to the wing offensive players who can then carry the ball to the end line for a cross to the center forward or wing on the other side.
With this formation, the center halfback has a big responsibility when it comes to controlling the game. He must be able to control the ball with confidence and look for unmarked teammates, especially on the wings. Defensively, he must be able to pick up an opponent dribbling the ball through the center of the field, read the plays that are starting against his team, win and settle loose balls, and pass to unmarked teammates. This player is doing a good job if he’s making short, controllable passes that can be used by attackers. If you have a player on your team that could make a good center halfback, you’ll likely be successful in the 4-3-3 formation.
Youth coaches like the 4-3-3 formation because it enables them to assign responsibilities to the players easily. Players like to know their role but also want the choice to be creative when the situation allows. For example, a wing defender with a ball who sees a clear path in front of him can feel free to take the ball forward as far as he likes. In fact, he can potentially take the ball to the other end line and cross it as if he were a wing offensive player. Once the ball is crossed and the ensuing play is over, he should run back to assume his defensive responsibilities.
The basic idea in youth soccer coaching is for the coaches to keep in mind that their players are having fun but also learning. The 4-3-3 is a way to introduce structure to young players and it’s a formation that won’t cramp their creativity as growing players. Everyone wins with the 4-3-3.
