All the TST info a can be very daunting for new TST coaches. There is a lot to take in and get right. This would be impossible for a new coach to do and we would not expect it. Hopefully over time you get to know the process in full, but like all coaching you can know a little and a still do a great job.
Below is a cheat sheet to running a TST session. It is called a cheat sheet because it is something a good coach with no TST experience could run quite easily with out too much prep.
It is also a good format for players who are close to be able to work specifically on footwork, but aren't able to concentrate for long periods of time.
The format would simply be:
- Game to start (Warm up version)
- Footwork (Game functional fundamental footwork patterns - Chose 3 patterns - practice at appropriate level of difficulty for group)
- Game (space manipulation)
- Footwork (Go back to the exercises you did before and look for improvement)
- Game at end (standard TST rules)
Games:
- These could be 2v2 constraint Games (see possible variations below):
- In the session make the games constraint based with an emphasis on finding space
- At the end it would be a standard promo/relegation 2v2 game
Footwork :
- Choose patterns from the FFP table that you are comfortable with
- For an exercise : Introduce it: Practice: Give Feedback: Improve: Challenge: Move on:
- Pitch exercises and challenges at the right level
- You could do as simple Ball mastery exercises (lateral only)
- Add challenges and develop:
- Rhythm (sprint without ball and then go into the pattern)
- Speed (how many in 20 seconds)
- Compare this to - How many with head up.
- Or do as simple U shape exercise (lateral forward back)
- Or do an exercise that incorporates:
- a lateral touch
- a change of direction touch
- a drag back
- a turn
- Provide feedback where possible to help players improve and make it fun too.
- Introduce it: Practice: Give Feedback: Improve: Challenge: Move on: (quick fire footwork)
- Don't spend too long on the same things as it might get too dry for players.
Make sure the session is split into thirds (3rds):
- A third of each session is on footwork (although this doesn't have to be all in one go)
- For young players - ball mastery may be even simpler than FFPs (your call) and
- Definitely needs to be broken up.
- For advanced players - they need to be pushed, so ball mastery wont cut it
- So make it more challenging, give more feedback, throw in fun challenges.
- A third on a non-standard game
- Playing one at the start and one in the middle is ok
- A third on the SSG at the end.
Final note:
- Make sure players are always busy and active:
- Avoid having players sitting out unless the game is tiring and the rest becomes a good thing.
This format could be used for all players (all ages and all levels).
The links below go to different 2v2 games, and to a basic FFP table (+videos).