Shooting Skills | Coaching by Skill Focus

💥 Shooting Skills

Help players strike with confidence. Shooting sessions build technique, timing, and composure under pressure—always wrapped in joyful repetition and game-realism.

👶 U6–U8: Joyful Strikes

🔁 Play 1: Goal Monster

Players shoot to “feed” the monster in the goal. No coaching—just celebration.

🎯 Practice: Cone Goal Challenge

  • Players shoot between cone goals from short distances
  • Coach prompt: “Can you kick it like a rocket?”
  • Success: Smiles, contact with laces, follow-through

⚽ Play 2: Shoot & Chase

Players shoot and race to retrieve their ball. Add defenders as they improve.

⚽ U9–U11: Technique & Timing

🔁 Play 1: 3v3 to Mini Goals

Free play with small goals. Observe shooting decisions.

🎯 Practice: Shooting Ladder

  • Players rotate through stations: volleys, ground shots, 1-touch finishes
  • Coach prompt: “Can you shoot before the defender closes?”
  • Success: Quick prep touch, body over ball, clean contact

⚽ Play 2: Rebound Battle

Players shoot, then compete for rebounds. Rotate shooters and defenders.

🧠 U12–U14: Finishing Under Pressure

🔁 Play 1: 4v4 with Finishing Zones

Encourage movement into shooting zones. Observe timing and technique.

🎯 Practice: 2v1 Break & Finish

  • Players attack with a teammate vs one defender
  • Coach prompt: “Can you finish with composure?”
  • Success: Decision-making, low driven shots, follow-through

⚽ Play 2: Timed Finishing Game

Players must shoot within 5 seconds of receiving the ball. Add defenders as needed.

🛠️ Coach Prompts & Success Markers

  • “Can you shoot before the defender gets close?”
  • “Try using your laces!”
  • “Where’s the open space?”
  • Look for: Prep touch, body over ball, follow-through, composure