Session Plan: Developing Effective Crossing Skills
Session Plan: Developing Effective Crossing Skills
SESSIONS
10/23/20241 min read
Session Plan: Developing Effective Crossing Skills
Session Focus
Today's session is all about refining crossing skills from within the penalty area, focusing on timing, positioning, and technique from both flanks. Players will practice delivering game-ready crosses to create scoring chances.
Warm-Up Phase
We start with a warm-up that combines precise passing drills with dynamic movement exercises. After each pass, players perform general running exercises and dynamic stretches to activate muscles and prepare the body.
Coaching Points:
Focus on body control and flexibility.
Emphasize timing between passing and stretching movements.
Pre-Main Phase Coordination
Before diving into crossing, we incorporate agility and coordination exercises to sharpen reflexes and improve movement control.
Coaching Points:
Quick feet during agility exercises.
Keep the body balanced and coordinated in each movement.
Main Part: Crossing Pattern Drill
In this phase, we work on a passing drill that leads up to crossing patterns. The drill focuses on passing sequences and player positioning to build rhythm in crossing.
Coaching Points:
Stay in an open body position to receive passes easily.
Communicate effectively to maintain tempo.
Focus on timing runs and passes, arriving at the crossing zone at the perfect moment.
Purpose: This drill prepares players to make well-timed entries into the penalty area to deliver crosses.
Pattern in the Video
The passing pattern shown in the video emphasizes timing. The primary goal is for players to reach the penalty area and deliver precise crosses.
Coaching Points:
Maintain proper pass weight and direction.
Use scanning to identify the best crossing angle.
Adjust body shape for a quick cross delivery.
Small-Sided Game with Scoring Rule
We end the session with a small-sided game where scoring with a one-touch finish from a cross counts as two points. This motivates players to focus on timing their runs and delivering accurate crosses.
Coaching Points:
Position well to receive crosses.
Coordinate runs with teammates to arrive for a one-touch finish.
Emphasize quick, controlled finishes.
