U10 Soccer Practice: Creating Overloads (90-Minute Session)
Intro:
Welcome to this U10 soccer practice session focused on “Creating Overloads.” Overloads are situations where one team creates a numerical advantage (such as 2v1 or 3v2) in a specific area of the field, improving their chances of keeping possession and creating scoring opportunities. This 90-minute session is designed to help young players recognize and exploit overloads effectively.
Warm-Up:
Start with a dynamic warm-up to get players moving, engaged, and ready to focus on team play.
- Light jogging around the field
- Dynamic stretches (high knees, butt kicks, side shuffles)
- Quick feet ladder drills (or use cones)
- 5-minute rondo (keep-away) in groups of 5-6
Main Drill 1: 3v2 Attack vs Defense
Set up a 20×30 yard grid with two small goals at one end. Divide players into groups of five (three attackers, two defenders). Attackers try to score on the small goals, while defenders attempt to win the ball and pass to a coach or designated target outside the grid.
- Rotate roles every 3-4 minutes
- Focus on quick passing, movement, and using the extra player to create a clear opportunity
Main Drill 2: 4v3 Overload Game
On a larger area of the field, set up a 4v3 scenario with mini-goals or pug goals. The team of four starts with the ball and attempts to use their numerical advantage to make 5 consecutive passes before trying to score. Defenders can score in a counter-goal if they win the ball.
- After a set time (4 minutes), rotate players through attacking and defending roles
- Encourage attackers to spread out, communicate, and move off the ball
Small-Sided Game:
Finish the technical portion with a 6v6 or 7v7 game on a half field. Instruct players to look for moments where they can create overloads on the wings or in central areas. Encourage support runs and switching play to find the numerical advantage.
- Emphasize teamwork and decision-making
- Reward teams for successfully creating and using overloads (e.g., bonus point for scoring after a switch or overload situation)
Cool Down:
End with a gentle jog and static stretches as a group, reinforcing the key points learned during practice.
Coaching Points:
- Recognize when and where overload opportunities exist
- Communicate clearly with teammates
- Make quick, accurate passes to exploit the extra player
- Move into supporting positions off the ball
- Encourage creativity and decision-making in attacking situations
Tags:
U10, Youth Soccer, Soccer Drills, Overloads, Coaching, Session Plan