Who you are coaching, and what you are teaching them.
U12 Girls, playing 9v9 — what that actually means on a Tuesday.
Suggested for your team — keep them, or adjust.
Why it matters
Creates room to play, and forces defenders to run farther to cover you.
On the field, say
"Wingers, touch the sidelines. Forwards, push their back line deep."
The deeper cut
Width touchline to touchline, length as vertical stretch, depth as drop outlets behind the ball. In a 3-3-2 the outside backs fan wide while the two strikers pin the opponent's center backs.
Taught in sessions 2, 4, 7, 9, 11 of the arc.
Why it matters
Keeps the player on the ball from getting trapped or panicking under pressure.
On the field, say
"Don't hide behind defenders — show your jersey and make a triangle."
The deeper cut
Support networks built on triangles and diamonds. In a 3-3-2 the center midfielder is the pivot connecting the back line to the attacking pair.
Taught in sessions 2, 4, 7, 9, 11 of the arc.
Why it matters
Stops the other team running straight down the middle for easy shots.
On the field, say
"Slow them down, don't dive in. Second player, cover the pass."
The deeper cut
Pressure — first defender delays the ball-carrier. Cover — second defender behind and inside. Balance — third defender holds the far side.
Taught in sessions 5, 6, 8, 10 of the arc.
Why it matters
The ball is easiest to steal back in the first few seconds, before they get organized.
On the field, say
"Five-second rule. React the second we lose it."
The deeper cut
Immediate counter-pressing, closing primary passing lanes, disrupting the counter before it forms.
Taught in sessions 8, 10 of the arc.