What are the advantages of using training grids in soccer? Thanks.
Christianne

Dear Christianne,

The training grid serves as an important organizational and instructional tool. The grid facilitates the most important aspect of learning which is "time-on-task." Professional soccer players, for example, may cover a distance of 6-7 miles during a typical game. However, they would have possession of the ball for two or less minutes out a 90 minute match. In a typical 40 minute game of U8 or U9 boys, most players barely touch the ball and the average total time of active ball possession is less than one minute.

Thus, the amount of learning that may be achieved during practice while using a regulation size or even smaller field as the practice field is very limited. Practice grids of various sizes and shapes allow the coach to accommodate the skill level and the time on task needs of her/his players. It also facilitates a more effective division of labor between the head coach and her/his assistants. The grid allows more kids to be active while closely supervised.

Not all training grids (also called coaching grids) are made equal. Training grids vary in size, e.g, 5X5, 10X10, 15X15 etc. meters or yards, or shape, e.g., 15X10, 20X10, 30X20 etc. meters or yards. When working on one-on-one dribbling skills I prefer using a circle, such as, the 18 meter diameter circle at the mid-field’s center line.

While a smaller grid provides the player with more opportunities to respond it also adds pressure and thus may better serve highly skilled players. The division of a larger field into smaller grids allows the coach to simultaneously work on different soccer techniques with players that possess a wide range of skill and fitness levels.

Cheers,

Dany (Aug. 01, 03)

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