An essential element

Scott,

I've found that when trying to develop a concept of possession play for this age group, the most common issue is this: players often want to one-touch the ball away. That is, they essentially fear possession of the ball at their feet. If the players fear possession of the ball at their feet, they have little hope of POSSESSING THE BALL AS A TEAM.

The trick, IMO, is to introduce to these kids the need to develop a consistent first touch. I do this by conditioning our small-sided scrimmage play (be it keepaway or a simple game) this way: everyone must take a minimum of 2 touches on the ball whenever they touch the ball. I've even had players take a seat in the middle of the grid for violating the rule! Or, simply reward the other team the ball for a violation.

This one simple concept - coupled with lots of touches on the ball at practice and home - will force the players to become more accustomed and comfortable in possession of the ball as an individual, and ultimately, as a team.