Soccer is a game about field position and possession and being able to defend effectively is a key element for each of these factors. There are four key elements that I have found to teaching young soccer players to defend effectively. Footwork is a key factor in getting young soccer players to defend effectively. Together with knowing when to commit to a tackle and when to hold position I find t...

If you coach the Under 6, Under 8, or Under 10 year old age groups you have probably found yourself trying to explain to your kids what position they are going to play for a game, and where they are supposed to play. Likewise, if you have a child on the field you want them to have a basic understanding of what their role is in each game. Usually what you end up with is a mass of kids running like...