Throw-In's

Lorne, what a great question and one that I am sure other coaches will be curious about. I think the change to a self-pass, dribble-in or pass-in as opposed to the usual throw-in at U9 is a big step in the right direction if we are looking to increase ball contact, playing time and decision making for our young 8 year old players. One huge by product is that taking throw-ins out for this age group will also reduce the number of headers young players make so there is an additional long term benefit too (recent FA research identified throw-ins as when most headers occurred in younger age groups). I think we all accept that throw-ins are an integral part of the game so you are right in that your players will have to integrate them into their game at some point in the future.

However, for me I would rather spend the time now, when they are 8 and 9 years of age exposing them to the things that they need RIGHT NOW such as great movement and control with a ball at their feet. A growing confidence to stay on the ball in order to disrupt opponents and developing a touch and an awareness on the ball so that they no longer have to focus on the ball and they can lift their head to attend to where opponents, teammates and spaces are. I firmly believe this focus will bring greater returns in the future so should be the priority now.

If you still want to drip feed throw-ins into your warm-ups then include handball or basketball type games in your arrival activities and award extra points for successful throw-in techniques and catches by teammates. You can also use hoops and have teams where each team member takes it in turn to use a throw-in technique to land the ball in the hoop. If successful the hoop is moved further away and the game is repeated. These competitive games are fun and will also help develop technique so have them in mind but use them as a fun activator for your session rather than the main focus. For me, at this age the main priority should be games, activities and small number formats that include lots of play, ball contacts and decision making. I hope this helps.

Best of luck. Pete