Under 9s & Under 10s

Introduction to passing, decision-making, and basic positional awareness in 7v7 format

The Under 9s and Under 10s age group marks the beginning of small-sided team play with basic tactical concepts. Children are developmentally ready to understand simple positional ideas, passing combinations, and decision-making beyond pure dribbling. Sessions should balance continued technical development with introduction to team play, whilst maintaining fun and high activity levels. The 7v7 format provides the perfect balance of individual involvement and team interaction.

Development Priorities

1Passing technique and receiving skills
2Simple decision-making (dribble, pass, or shoot)
3Basic positional awareness (attack, midfield, defence)
4Supporting teammates with movement
5Introduction to defending as a team
6First-time play and combination passing
7Continued technical development

Session Structure

✓Sessions of 60-75 minutes work well
✓Warm-up with ball work, not static stretching
✓Technical practice in pairs or small groups
✓Transition to opposed practice
✓Finish with 7v7 game applying session theme
✓Brief tactical explanations with visual demonstrations

Common Mistakes

!Overcomplicating tactics with too many instructions
!Playing children in one position only
!Expecting adult decision-making and game understanding
!Focusing on results instead of development
!Too much stopped time for coaching interventions
!Introducing set-piece routines too early

Suggested Drills

✓Passing and moving in triangles
✓2v1 attacking overloads
✓Transition games (attack to defence quickly)
✓Passing through gates to a partner
✓Dribble then pass combination sequences
✓Small-sided possession games

Ask FootballGPT

“What tactics should I teach at Under 9s and 10s?”

“How do I introduce passing without killing dribbling?”

“What positions should children play in 7v7?”

“How much structure is appropriate at this age?”

Frequently Asked Questions

What formation should I use for 7v7 football?

A simple 2-3-1 or 1-3-2-1 formation works well, but avoid being rigid. Rotate children through all positions, prioritise understanding of attack/midfield/defence areas, and focus on principles (support, spacing, transition) rather than fixed positions.

How do I balance teaching passing whilst encouraging dribbling?

Both are important. Teach children when to dribble (space ahead, 1v1) and when to pass (teammate in better position, under pressure). Use practices that require both skills, and praise good decisions rather than prescribing one method.

Should I introduce goalkeepers at this age?

Yes, 7v7 includes goalkeepers, but rotate everyone through this position. Keep goalkeeper coaching simple: positioning, catching, and distribution basics. Specialist goalkeeper training is not appropriate until older age groups.

What tactical concepts can children understand at this age?

Keep it very simple. Teach support (get close to help), width (spread out), and transition (attack quickly, defend quickly). More complex tactics like pressing triggers, defensive lines, or detailed positional roles are too advanced.

How important are results at Under 9s and 10s?

Results should be completely irrelevant to you as a coach. Focus entirely on development, participation, and enjoyment. If you coach well and children improve, results will take care of themselves. Chasing wins at this age harms long-term development.

Related Age Groups

🌿Under 7s & Under 8s 🏃Under 11s & Under 12s 💪Under 13s & Under 14s

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