Notes From The Touchline
Practical thoughts on technical development, tactics, and supporting young players through the ups and downs of the game.
Technical Development
5 Ball Mastery Drills Every Grassroots Player Should Practice
First touch and close control win games at grassroots level more often than raw pace. Here are five simple drills you can run in a back garden or a 5-a-side pitch: 1) Sole rolls and drags to build comfort under both feet, 2) Wall passing at pace to sharpen first touch, 3) Cone weaves for close control at speed, 4) Two-touch finishing to force decision-making, 5) Juggling for confidence on the ball. Fifteen minutes a day builds habits that show up on matchday.
Tactics
Why Tactical Awareness Matters As Much As Skill At U12
Coaches often over-index on skill moves at a young age. Understanding space, timing and positioning pays off far sooner than people expect. Simple exercises – scanning before receiving, recognising when to pass versus when to dribble, and understanding a team shape without the ball – build a tactical foundation that technical ability alone can’t replace. At UEFA B level, this individual tactics focus is exactly what separates good coaching from great coaching.
Parent’s Guide
Supporting Your Child Through Setbacks On The Pitch
A bad game, an injury, or being dropped from the starting eleven can feel huge to a young player. Having faced a career-altering injury myself, I know how much perspective and patience matters. The best thing a parent can do is separate performance from identity – remind your child that a tough match doesn’t define them, and that resilience is built in exactly these moments. Keep the car ride home about connection, not critique.