What does "Small-Sided Games" mean? These are soccer games with fewer players competing on a smaller sized field. These are fun games that involve the players more because fewer players are sharing one ball.
All ages can play "Small Sided Games", but it has a definite developmental impact on our younger soccer players. US Youth Soccer recommendations for "number of players" at the various age groups are as follows:
U6 | 3 against 3 no goal keepers
U8 | 4 against 4 no goal keepers
U10 | 6 against 6 with goal keepers
U12 | 8 against 8 with goal keepers
U13+ | 11 against 11 with goal keepers
The "Small-Sided" environment is a
developmentally appropriate environment for our young soccer players. It's a FUN environment that
focuses on the young soccer player. The links listed below contain US Youth Soccer approved activities for parent coaches. Please feel free to incorporate these activities into your practice sessions and even modify them to fit your coaching objectives.
U6 and U8 Practice Activities
U12 Practice Activities