ACF FIORENTINA MASTER COACHING COURSE

Sunday, 29 November (3pm)

Presentation of the ACF Fiorentina Method (Professor Vincenzo Vergine (Sports Director of ACF
Fiorentina)

“A global vision of a young player’s growth”

3 Pillars of Development

PHYSICAL

MORAL AND TECHNICAL

ETHICAL AND TACTICAL

The guidelines for youth development and the ACF FIORENTINA Model

 Psychomotricity
 Coordination Capacity
 Physical
 Technical and Tactical Abilities

The difference is how you distribute these as all methods touch on them.

Psychomotricity
 Basic Motor Skills
 Postural Schemes
 Senso-Perceptive Capacities
 Pre-Acrobatic

Coordination Capacity
 Combine and Couple Movements
 Spatial-Temporal Orientation
 Differentiate
 Reaction
 Balance
 Adaptation and Transformation

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  Rhythm
 Anticipation
 Motor Imagination

Physical Athletic Work

 Strength
 Power
 Speed
 Resistance
 Proprioception
 Articular Mobility

Technical- Tactical Abilities

 Juggle
 Passing and Receiving
 Guiding(Running) the ball
 Long Passes
 Shooting
 Dribbling (1v1)
 Heading
 Fake
 Tackle
 Individual Tactics
 Team Tactics

AGE GOUPS (What should be concentrated on at each age group)

In Order of Importance
U10/11- Psychomotricity, Cordination, Technique, Individual Tactics
U12/13- Coordination, Physical, Technique, Individual Tactics
U14/15- Coordination, Physical, Technical, Individual Tactics, Team Tactics
U16/17- Coordination, Physical, Fitness, Technique, Team Tactics, Individual Tactics

Example: Juggling (Coordination)

 Static Balance
 Rhythm
 Differentiation (Muscular Distribution)

Physical Conditioning Capacity

 Strength
 Speed

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  Endurance

Three Stages to Technical Abilities

Stage 1- Juggling, passing and receiving running or guiding the ball

Stage 2- Long Ball
Stage 3- Heading, fake or feinting

The first objective is to improve the player and then the game. Not the reverse.

END OF LECTURE

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94 ACF FIORENTINA TRAINING SESSION

Circuits

Circuit #1- The drill is outlined by large standing cones. Between the first pair of standing cones is a
sponge balance ball. Players begin by stepping to then standing on the sponge balance ball for 2-3
seconds. They step off the balance ball to a large hurdle between the next pair of large standing cones.
The hurdle is slightly more than ankle high. They bound over the hurdle and approach another of the
same hurdles between the next set of large standing cones. Once they bound over that hurdle they step
onto a slightly bottom round balance board made of hard material construction (hard plastic or treated
wood). They balance on the board for 2-3 seconds before stepping forward onto a different balance
board that is flat with a rounded object directly under the middle of it. It is also made of either a hard
plastic or treated wood. They step off the balance board and approach the final hurdle and bound over
it. The drill is continuous as players rotate on their own between circuits for 15 minutes.

The second stage of the first circuit is that the players hold a soccer ball in their hands as they go
through the circuit.

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Circuit #2- The drill is set up with a large hurdle and a large cone directly under the middle of the hurdle.
Just after the hurdle is a sponge balance ball followed by another large cone 5 yards away. In front of
the stand alone large cone are three coaching sticks lying flat on the ground, all in a row, and separated
by no more than 2 yards. Finally, four rings are set together with two in front of the other two. Players
begin the drill by hopping over the large hurdle and onto the sponge balance ball. After maintaining
their balance they proceed to the next cone. Players then proceed to shuffle around the coaching sticks
going left to right. Once they come through the sticks they approach the rings. Players must quickly go
through the rings by quickly running and putting two feet in each circle before proceeding to the next
circle. They do the two back circles before doing the two front circles.

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Circuit #3- Players start at the first cone. The drill begins with the player using fast and quick steps to
navigate through the cones and then moves forward quickly to the last cone. It is important that the
players use quick feet and that they don’t touch the cones in the pack.

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Circuit #4- Players line up behind 3 large and low hurdles. They go over the three hurdles quickly
bounding with both legs and then proceed to run around the cones. It is important that their hips are
facing the direction of the run.

Passing Drill- The player with the ball starts the drill by dribbling towards the middle cone, faking one
direction, then taking it towards the next cone. Once they make the fake and turn towards the next
cone they pass the ball to the waiting player on that cone. Drill is continuous.

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Progression- The player with the ball begins by passing and rapidly approaching the player receiving the
ball. The player receiving quickly receives and turns away to the next cone and does the same. Drill is
continuous.

Progression- The player with the ball faces the first player on the next cone. The first player comes out
a few steps towards the player with the ball as the player passes the ball. The approaching player
dummies it between their legs to the next player in line. The passing player quickly runs to the end of
the next line. The player making the dummy run turns and goes to the end of their same line. The
player receiving the pass continues the drill.

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Progression- Same as above, except the player creating the dummy turns and applies pressure to the
player receiving the ball. Condition the player receiving the ball to take their first touch away from
pressure. Emphasize an increase in intensity with each progression. The rotation of the players is the
same.

This image shows the 2nd part of the same progression where the player who dummied the ball has
turned to apply pressure.

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Small-Sided Game- The team is divided into 3 groups of four players each. One group wears red,
another group yellow and a third group blue. Two teams play against one team. The team that loses
possession becomes the defending team. The drill begins inside of the 18 yard box. On the coach’s
signal the game moves to a larger area between the top of the 18 yard box and the line at midfield. A
cone line from the end of each 18 yard line is also run to midfield. The coach alternates between the
two areas to force the teams to deal with a change in size, time, and space. A very effective drill for
improving team speed.

This is the same small-sided game, except with the change showing the teams moved into the larger
area.

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Played the above game for 20 minutes, then had the team cooldown by positioning themselves on the
fence around the field. He went through a series of active stretching exercises that included the
following:

 Swing Leg Side to Side

 Open Gates
 Close Gates
 Knees up
 Legs up and out at an angle

Then had players sit down and do static stretching on their own for 8-10 minutes.

End of Session

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Monday, 30 November (10am)

Review of the previous day’s session.

Psychomotricity- What is Psychomotricity and why it is important for coaches to work on this at the
younger ages?

20-30 years ago children were very different. They played outside and were significantly more active
than they are now. Children used to develop basic skills such as basic motor skills (i.e. running, walking,
rolling, crawling, etc.). It has now become necessary for coaches to teach this part of their basic
responsibilities of coaching. The four main areas of Psychomotricity are:
 Basic Motor Skills
This focuses on basic movements such as walking, running, crawling, jumping, hoping,
etc.
 Postural Skills
This focuses on actions such as flexing, bending, and static movements.
 Sensory Capabilities
This refers to how we learn through our different senses. These include optic, auditory,
kinesthetic, and touch.
 Pre-Acrobatic
This involves more dynamic movements that focus on how we balance our bodies.

Children from low economic areas tend to have better Psycho-Motor Skills because they are always
outside playing. Children from more affluent areas tend to have weaker skills in these areas because
they are less active.

How are Psycho-Motor Skills Developed?

Training Circuits (Plyometric Exercises)- They look to incorporate circuit training with the
younger ages to promote Psycho-Motor Skill Development. They look to include a ball as much as
possible during these activities, but as an instrument and not as an objective. This means that you are
not concerned with their touch or technique at this moment, you are more concerned with the child’s
fundamental ability to incorporate the nature of the exercise. Examples would include the use of
hurdles, coaching sticks, cones, discs, rings, benches, etc.

Video Presentation (Psycho-Motor Skill Development- The ACF Fiorentina Method)

Running (Without the Ball)

Players line up between two cones and next to each other. Players are working on proper running
technique in this exercise.

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Players go through the following routine doing each exercise two times each before switching to the
next. The drill is continuous from start to finish.

 Knees Up
 Knees Up Fast
 Right Knee Up Only
 Right Heal Up Only
 Left Knee Up Only
 Left Heal Up Only
 Shuffle with hand clap above the head (like a jumping jack)
 Shuffle with hands on the hips
 Jog halfway then turn and go backwards with hands on hips

Running (Without the Ball)

A large circle approximately the size of the center circle contains half of the players. Cones are set up
like little gates around the outside line of the circle that are no more than 2 yards apart. The other half
of the players are positioned between the cones gates around the outside of the circle. The players
inside the circle jog around and find a partner and face them. They pretend to juggle the ball back and
forth 6 times before the player moves on to find a new partner. The drill is continuous for 30-40
seconds. Switch the players outside with the ones inside.

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Circuits- A common practice for training younger players by Fiorentina is to have Circuits that focus on
training and building basic motor skills. The following Circuit Training depicts five (5) different circuits
that focus on everything from simple running to weaving, shuffling, and so on.

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Circuit #1- The first player jogs up past the first cone, then shuffles to the left past the next cone. Once
they pass that cone they shuffle to the right past the next cone. They continue shuffling through the
cones until they reach the last cone in line, and then they jog through to the cone gate on the other end.

Circuit #2- The first player in line jogs up to the line of cones on the right, then jog through while
thrusting the right knee up. Once they pass the line of cones on the right they jog over to the line of
cones on the left and thrust the left knee up. Once they pass the line of cones on the left they jog
through the cone gate at the end.

Circuit #3- The first player in line jogs up to the right side of the coaching sticks lying flat on the ground
parallel to one another. The player passes the first stick, then turns and jogs on the path between the
sticks while thrusting their knees up. Once they pass the stick they turn and start jogging down the next
path between the cones while kicking their heels up behind them. They continue through alternating
between the two until they reach the last path, then jog through the cone gate at the end.

Circuit #4- The first player in line jogs up to the right side of the first hurdle, then shuffles in the space
between the hurdles to the opposite side. They continue shuffling through and jog forward through the
cone gate.

Circuit #5- The first player in line jogs up to the right side of the rings, then turns and jogs through the
path between them. Once they come through the path they jog forward through the cone gate at the
end.

Running (With the Ball)

A large circle approximately the size of the center circle contains all of the players with a soccer ball.
Players dribble the ball around the circle changing directions and avoiding other players in the circle.

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The drill changes to where the players place the soccer balls down on the ground inside the grid. The
players jog around and on the coaches signal they run and grab a ball.

medicine ball and on the coaches signal they throw the ball up, catch it, then run again. The drill
progresses to where the players are running and holding the ball with one hand. On the coaches signal
they toss the ball up with one hand and catch it with one hand. The drill progresses to where the
players toss the ball up in the air, roll forward, then catch the ball and continue running.

Running (Drills to Train Basic Motor Skills)

The first drill is set up in a grid that is 5x10 in size. The player without the ball stands between one of
the cone gates and jogs in place. The second player stands holding the ball in the middle of the grid.
The player in the middle throws the ball up three times, then runs to the opposite cone gate and jogs in
place. The player jogging runs in on the third toss and catches the ball. They then toss the ball up three
times and run to their original cone gate. The drill is continuous.

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The progression of the drill is that the players switch positions. The player in the middle runs towards
the player on the outside while the outside player runs inside and switch roles. The player in the middle
tosses the ball in the air while the player on the outside jogs in place.

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A progression not shown on the video, but discussed in class would be to integrate the use of a medicine
ball instead of using a soccer ball.

Running (Drills to Train Basic Motor Skills)

The drill is set up in a 5x10 grid. A coaching stick or corner flag is placed in the middle. You can also use
two sticks or corner flags with a rope or tether to create a net separating the grid into two equal halves.
Players are divided into two groups with each group lined up in their half of the grid. One soccer ball is
used in the drill. The first player throws the ball into the other half, then runs to the end of the opposite
line in the other half of the grid. The receiving player catches the ball and throws it back into the other
half of the grid to the next player in line, then runs to the end of the opposite grid. The drill is
continuous. To change the drill or make it more challenging, use a medicine ball instead of a soccer
ball.

Jumping (Drills to Train Basic Motor Skills)

The drill is set up in a 5x10 grid. All players are lined up at one end of the grid. The drill begins with the
first player jumping forward with their legs open. Their next jump they close their legs. They alternate
between open legs and closed legs through the length of the grid. Other players follow.

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The drill progresses with player doing the same, except jumping on one leg. Players try to jump forward
left, the forward right on one leg. The final progression is where players go back to jumping on both
legs. Players alternate between jumping with legs open, then jumping and crossing legs.

The drill progresses by placing a hurdle in the middle of the grid and having all of the players line up
together on one side of the grid. Players jog up to the hurdle, then jump over the hurdle and land on
both feet before jogging through to the end. The drill changes by having the players jump and perform a
180 degree turn so that they are facing backwards when they land. Players then turn and jog through to
the end. Change the drill again by having the players jump and land on one leg. After going through this
way have them jump and do a 180 degree turn landing on one leg.

The drill further progresses by adding additional hurdles into the drill. Players approach and jump over
the hurdles, then run in place fast for 3 seconds before continuing over the next hurdle. Players
continue through the hurdles performing this after each jump.

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The drill progresses by having players jump over the hurdles with both legs together and landing on both
legs together. Try to have the players bound over all of the hurdles together in one motion, instead of
pausing or taking a step or pause in between. Change the drill again by having the players jump over the
hurdles on one leg and landing on one leg.

Crouch and Roll (Drills to Train Basic Motor Skills)

The drill is set up in a 5x10 grid with players lined up on one end of the grid. The drill begins with the
first player in line jogging out to the middle of the grid, tucking and rolling, then jogging through to the
opposite end of the grid. All of the players follow.

The drill changes by having players jog to the middle, then lay down straight on the ground and log-
rolling three times before jogging through to the opposite end.

Running Figure Eight (Basic Motor Skills Training)

Players run to the middle cones in the grid and do a figure eight around the cones before jogging
through to the end. Players should turn to face the run through the figure eight and shouldn’t shuffle
through it.

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The progression of the drill is to have players fall to their stomach after they complete the figure eight,
then get up quickly and jog through to the end.

The third progression is to have players go through the cones in a figure eight on all fours (doggie style
or bear crawl style).

The final progression is for players to go through the cones in a figure eight in a crab walk.

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Monday, 30 November (11:30am)

Lecture

Coordination Capabilities ‘From Analyzers to Abilities’

Movement Control
Neurophysical Bases
1) Reflex Activity
2) High Centers of the Brain

Reflex Activity
1) Neuromuscular Spindles
2) Compuscles of Gangli
3) Mechanoreceptors
a. Endings of type Gangli
b. Endings of type Ruffini
c. Free ending nerves

High Centers of the Brain

1) Primary Cortex- Already learned
2) Pre-Motor Cortex- Where we start movement
3) Basil Gangli- Sustained or repeated
4) Cerebellum- Speed and complex muscle activities

Analyzers
1) Muscular
2) Spinal
3) Travels at tremendous speed
4) Bypasses the brain

Analyzers

Bases of Coordination Capacities

1) Located in the skin
2) Reception/Transmission of dynamic impulses of incitement and verbal information

Coordination Capacities: Basis of Technical Abilities

End of Lecture

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ACF FIORENTINA PRIMAVERA TRAINING SESSION (LIGHT SESSION)

The Primavera Team only had 10 field players and 2 goalkeepers available for this session because of
injuries and players being called up to the professional team for an Italian Cup Game.

More than half of the field was set up prior to the players coming out for the session. The session was
set up for circuits with 8 different stages. The stages were organized as follows:

1) Diamond Dribbling- Four cones create a diamond-shape with a fifth cone in the middle. Players
dribble from one outside cone towards the middle, then perform a move and go back outside to
a different cone. Continue through all four cones.
2) Tight Space Dribbling- Several cones are spread randomly throughout an area with cones no
more than one yard apart. Player control their ball through the tight spaces from one side to
the other side.
3) Dribbling with a Small Goal- Players dribble around staggered cones and then finish on a small
goal.
4) Dribbling with Small Goal2- Players dribble between cones that are in a tight line together and
then finish on a small goal.
5) Dribbling and Chipping- Four hurdles are set in a line and are separated by approximately 3
yards. Players begin on the starting cone and dribble towards the line of hurdles. As they
approach the first hurdle they chip the ball over and jump over the hurdle. They continue to the
next hurdle and do the same. Players continue through all of the hurdles.
6) Dribbling with Hurdles- Three large and tall hurdles (knee height) and are staggered so that they
are one left, one right, then one left again. Players dribble up to the first hurdle and push the
ball underneath and jump over the hurdle. Players re-gain control, then change directions to go
to the next hurdle. Players do the same with all three hurdles.
7) Juggling- Two cones are separated by ten yards. Players approach the first cone and start
juggling the ball in the air towards the second cone. Players try to juggle the ball in the air from
one cone to the other.
8) Circle Dribbling- Players dribble around the circle four times performing a different function
each time. The first time around the circle players weave in and out of the cones that make the
circle. The second time around the circle players just dribble around the outside of the circle.
The third time around the circle players approach each cone and perform a step over move. The
fourth time around the circle players perform touches inside of foot to inside of foot between
the cones.

Players are divided into equal groups and placed at a station to begin. Once players begin they perform
each station three times then move on at their own to the next station and continue. Players continue
through each of the stations for a total of 15 minutes. The first 10-12 minutes players should go through
the circuits at a light pace. The last 3-5 minutes need to be done at a fast work rate. The circuits should
be followed by static stretching for 3-5 minutes as a team. The Primavera Team performs these circuits

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two times per month. They vary the intensity by adding in 1v1 in a small area with small goals. Play
until someone scores.

The picture above shows the environment as it was laid out prior to the beginning of the workout. The
goalkeepers are off to the side working separately. The trainer has included goalkeepers from 3
different teams for the session and included a basic warm-up and dynamic session.

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The second part of the training session focused on working with the defensive back four. Had the
defense set up in a flat back four and position themselves approximately 30 yards from goal. They are
opposed by 3 forwards and 3 midfielders (6v4). The defenders also have a goalkeeper in goal. The team
they were preparing for (Cesana) play a 1-4-3-3. Switched the midfield for the attacking team from
three across to 2 up and 1 back.

CP: As soon as wide player with possession cuts in the nearest central defender tightens up. If the wide
player with possession turns outside, then the nearest central defender drops off.
CP: If an attacker has the ball centrally, then one central defender steps up to pressure and the other
drops and tucks in behind.

The session finishes with players jogging and stretching on their own.

End of Session

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95 ACF FIORENTINA (Nazionale) TRAINING SESSION

The session began with players jogging around inside the 18-yard box while performing various
exercises. Exercises included swinging arms forward together, swinging them backwards, high knees,
and so on. The assistant coach participated in the warm-up with the players and instructed them which
exercise to do as they were jogging. The session included 15 field players with goalkeepers warming up
separately with an assistant coach.

Technical Passing

There are three 10 yard by 10 yard grids located up towards the middle of the field and are each
separated by 5 yards. Each grid has 5 players inside and they pass and move within their own grid. The
grids have players wearing different colored bibs as follows:

 Grid#1- The first grid has two players in black, two players in yellow and one player in red.
 Grid#2- The second grid has two players in yellow, two players in red and one player in black.
 Grid#3- The third grid has two players in black, two players in red and one player in yellow.

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The first stage of the drill is to have players pass and move within their grid. The drill was changed by
having the players pass out of color order. In other words, they could not pass to their own color.
Increase technical demand by having players make one-touch passes.
The progression of the drill is that players now perform wall-passes within the grid. Increase intensity by
having players perform wall-passes to an opposite color than their own.

The final progression before adding opposition is to have the players perform quick combinations within
the grid. Same as above, have the players perform quick combinations to an opposite color than their
own.

Technical Passing

The drill has the same setup as the first technical passing drill, except now a goalkeeper is added into the
large goal. Players have to be very alert as the coach will call out instructions and the players have to
react quickly. Players continue to pass and move within their grids and, on the instruction of the coach,
two players come out (one player with the ball from one grid and another from a different grid) and
attack the goal. The player without the ball tries to stop the player with the ball. The instruction called
out by the coach is as follows:

 Two Numbers (Either 1,2, or 3)

 Two Colors (Either Black, Yellow, or Red)

The numbers called correspond with the grid numbers. The colors called out correspond with the bib
colors in the grid. The first grid number called represents the attacker and the second the defender.
The colors represent which player attacks or defends from that grid. Players in the grid randomly select
who goes and who stays. This helps with communication within the team and with reaction speed. The
diagram below is an example of how this is done. The coach would have called 1/3/yellow/black. This
means that the attacking player comes from grid 1 and the defending player from grid 3. Furthermore,
the attacking player is yellow and the defending player is black. The remaining players in their grids
continue to either pass and move or, in the case of the grid without the ball, they jog around inside the
grid. You can also have additional soccer balls waiting outside each grid and have them collect another
ball so that the players can return and quickly integrate back into the drill.

The progression is that the coach sends multiple players to attack and multiple players to defend. This is
done by the color that is called all of the players in that color participate from the grid called. Build it so
that the first color called attacks and the second color called defends, from all grids. This means the
final progression becomes 5 players attacking and 5 players defending.

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Then had players sit down and do static stretching on their own for 8-10 minutes.

End of Session

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95 ACF FIORENTINA (Regional) TRAINING SESSION

The session took place in less than favorable weather conditions on a less than playable surface. It was
a light to heavy rain during the session on a completely dirt field, one that was done by design and was
fenced in to appear as a small stadium field. Players began the session by jogging and stretching on
their own in preparation for a positional fitness session. Players were then divided by their positions
and placed in certain areas of the field to work on their individual fitness needs. This was a progression
from the normal circuits they had done earlier. Players remained in these circuits for 20 minutes
continuing and repeating the same exercises. Four separate circuits are created prior to the players
arriving for the session:

1- This involved fitness for wing players (wing attackers and wing defenders. All
players lined up on the corner by the corner flag. Players would sprint to midfield,
then would change direction and follow the midfield line to the opposite end,
continuing to sprint. Once they reach the opposite side of the midfield, players
would lightly jog back to their starting corner.
2- This involved the fitness of the central defenders. A coach stood in front of the
central defenders by 10 yards holding a soccer ball. The first defender would run
up and touch the ball, then would start backing up. The coach would toss the ball
in the air and the defender would have to head it back. The second defender
would then go. They would alternate. After the third header the defender would
sprint forward to a cone 40 yards away, then would jog back.
3- I will explain the set-up for this group of players (forwards), but understand that
the same set-up was also on the opposite side (mirrored each other- left and
right). A cone was placed from the top corner of the 18-yard box 10 yards up-field
(28 yards from the end line). A second cone was 10 yards inside and 4 yards
closer to goal. The final cone was 10 yards inside and on top of the 18 yard box. A
coach sat diagonally with a ball inside the 18 yard box. The player would run at
the first cone and would quickly change direction at the last minute. They would
do the same to the second and third cone and would receive a delivery from the
coach on the third cone. The forwards would run onto the ball and strike at goal.
The goal was protected by a goalkeeper. Players would switch lines.
4- This involved fitness for the central midfielders and was set up 10 yards past
midfield. A line of cones was set on one side of the field and a line of cones on the
opposite side of the field. The area in-between was 40 yards wide. There was a
cone up-field that was also 40 yards away. The players would stand on one line of
the cones to begin. They would run back and forth as quickly as they could for 90
seconds. Once 90 seconds came the coach would instruct them and they would
sprint past the cone 40 yards up field. Players would walk back and rest for 90
seconds before beginning again.

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Scrimmage Game Without the Ball (Ghost Game)- The game played after the circuits was done to build
communication and to further work on fitness in match conditions. Goals were created using coaching
sticks plugged into the ground and made to be official size. The field of play was played using half of a
half of the field from end line to midfield. Two equal teams of 8 were made with one team defending
one goal and the other defending the other goal. Goalkeepers were used for this drill. One team begins
with possession and they pass the ball by calling out a player. The player that is called has possession
and can run or attack as he wants. If he is tagged by an opposing player than that player now has the
ball. You score by the person with the ball running through the stick goal before being tagged. The
game was played for about 15 minutes before adding a ball into the game and encouraging the same
quick movements.

Cooldown- Players cooled down by jogging and stretching on their own.

End of Session

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Tuesday, 1 December (10:00am)

Lecture

Technical Abilities
The most important coordinative capabilities related to technique vary with each technique.

Balance (Equilibrium)
1) Players begin on a cone and run to the ring that is in front of them. The player stops
inside the ring and balances on one leg with the other leg extended in front of them.
Switch legs each time.
2) This is the same, except players hold the leg in front of them for 3 seconds before
moving from the ring.
3) Players jog inside the ring blindfolded and, on the coach’s signal, hold their leg in front
of them for 3 seconds.
4) Players jog inside the ring blindfolded and, on the coach’s signal, hold their leg in front
of them and make large circles with their leg extended.
5) Player removes the blindfold. Players hop on one leg juggle the ball with the other
while hopping.

Rhythm Exercise
1) The exercise is set up using 8 hurdles. Players line up at the cone to start. The players
begins by running through the first four hurdles in front of them, then turning around
and running through the first two coming back. Once they reach the middle, the player
turns to their right and runs through the two hurdles. The player then turns around and
runs through the four hurdles. The player jogs back to the starting cone.

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 2) The process of the drill is the same, except the player hops through the hurdles on both
legs.
3) The player now hops through the hurdles on their right leg only.
4) The player now hops through on their left leg only.
5) The player performs a 180 degree turn in the air, first to the right and then to the left, as
they progress through the hurdles.

Juggling (Static Balance)

1) A 10 yard by 10 yard grid is created using cones. Each corner has a player holding a ball.
The drill begins with the player juggling the ball and moving to the next cone. Once they
reach the cone they catch the ball and stop.
2) Same, except players now try to juggle the ball with only their right leg. Once they
reach the next cone they catch their ball and stop.
3) Same, except players now try to juggle the ball with only their left leg. Once they reach
the next cone they catch their ball and stop.

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Juggling (Differentiation)
1) The coach or another player stands in front of another player with a ball. The coach
holds a ring out in front of the player with the ball and holds it at a certain height. The
player with the ball has to juggle it a certain number of times before trying to play the
ball through the ring.
2) The player stands next to a coaches stick that is standing in the ground. The stick has a
marker on it and the player must juggle the ball to that height or try to every time.
3) Same as #2, except the player juggles the ball and on a certain touch has to play the ball
up to that marker height.
4) There are two groups of three, each with a medicine ball. Each group has to toss the
medicine ball in the air to every member of the group. Once every member has
received the medicine ball the last person tosses their medicine ball to the other group
while their group receives the other group’s medicine ball.
5) This exercise is the same as #4, except each group is juggling a soccer ball and, after a
certain number of touches, the groups switch their soccer ball with the other group.

Shooting (Differentiation)
1) The coach stands with soccer balls to the side and the players stands 20 yards away
directly in front of the goal. There are 3 standing cones in the goal (one right, one
central, and one left) for the player to aim for. The drill begins with the ball being
passed in from the side between the penalty spot and the 18-yard box. The player must

33
 strike the ball first time and attempt to knock down one of the cones. After striking the
first ball they run back to their starting point. Once they reach their starting point a
second ball is passed in and the player approaches and does the same. The player
receives a total of five passes in for shots.

2) The player stands about 30 yards from goal with four cones staggered in front of them.
The three standing cones are in the goal positioned the same as before. The player has
to weave through the cones while controlling the ball and attempt to knock down the
standing cones in the goal. They receive a total of 5 chances.

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3) The drill is the same as the first exercise, except two player are passing the ball back and
forth while the player is trying to shoot the ball on the ground at the standing cones.

4) This is the same as the previous shooting exercise, except the goal now has two lines
strung from post to post creating three separate zones in the goal. The two players
continue to pass back and forth while the shooter has to target the different zones.

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 5) Same as above, except the coach is on the side and passes the ball in for the player to
shoot at goal. Player tries to place the ball in the different zones.

Individual Play (Spatial/ Temporal Awareness)

1) Four players are in a 10 yard by 15 yard grid with standing cones spread around the
inside of the grid. The play is 2v.2 inside the grid to keep possession, but players must
avoid the standing cones. If they come in contact with the cones while in possession,
then they lose possession. Players are not allowed to go over the cones, but must go
around them.

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2) This second exercise takes place in an area that is approximately 10 yards by 10 yards.
Each end of the grid has a small goal and there is a coach with a ball at each corner of
the grid. The player stands in the middle of the grid and performs whatever exercise the
coach commands. These range from jumping jacks, 5 knees to chest, 5 sit-ups, etc.
After the exercise is completed one of the coaches passes the ball in and calls a number
representing one of the goals. The player must receive and quickly turn and finish into
that small goal. The drill is continuous through all four coaches.

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Tuesday, 1 December (11:30am)

Lecture/ Video

Guiding the Ball/ Dribbling (Balance)

1) The player is in a 10 yard by 10 yard grid dribbling the ball. Players dribble, then stop
and stand on the ball on command. They attempt to hold their balance standing on the
ball with both legs for 3-5 seconds.
2) Same as above, except players stop and stand on the ball with one leg and attempt to
hold their balance standing on the ball for 3-5 seconds.
3) Two coaching sticks are 10 yards apart and have a rope connecting them that is a little
more than ankle high. The player starts with the ball by one stick and has the ball and
one leg on one side of the stick and their other leg on the other side of the rope. The
player has to dribble and control the ball from one stick to the other keeping the ball
and dribble leg on one side and their other leg on the other side.

4) There are two cones that are 5 yards apart with a player standing between them with a
soccer ball. On the coach’s command, the player performs a figure eight around the
cones while going backwards. The player must hop with one leg on the ball. After going
backwards the player rests for 30 seconds then performs the same exercise forward.
The drill is continuous for a total of four times.

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Guiding the Ball/ Dribbling (Differentiation)
1) Four cones are placed in a line each separated by 10 yards. The player stands by the
first cone with a soccer ball. A tennis ball is at the second cone, and a medicine ball is at
the third cone. There is no ball at the fourth cone. The drill begins with the player
dribbling the soccer ball to the second cone and stopping the ball. The player then
dribbles the tennis ball to the third cone and stops it. The player then dribbles the
medicine ball to the last cone and stops it. The player waits for 15 seconds before
dribbling the medicine ball back to the original cone, the tennis ball back to its original
cone and the soccer ball back to the starting cone.
2) Two fitness rings are placed on the ground five yards in front of a standing cone. Players
start at the cone and dribble to the circle and then twice around it and return to the
cone they started at. Players then switch cones. Players go around to the right on one
circle and to the left on the other circle. Each cone has a soccer ball and a tennis ball.
Players perform the circles with the soccer ball first, then with the tennis ball.
3) Two cones are separated by 20 yards. There are three tall hurdles between the cones
each separated by three yards. The player begins the drill with the ball at one of the
cones. They dribble to the hurdle and push the ball underneath while hopping over the
hurdle. They do the same to the other two hurdles and then dribble to the last cone to
finish the drill.

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Passing/ Receiving (Coordination/ Orientation, Spatial Awareness, Adaptation and Transformation)
1) Two players separated by 5 yards. One has the ball in their hands and the other is on
their toes waiting for the ball. The drill begins by the player with the ball tossing it in the
air to their partner. The receiving player settles the ball and passes it back. Do this ten
times and then switch roles.
2) There are four players, two soccer balls, two hurdles and one cone needed for this drill.
Place the cone down and then walk each hurdle five yards out to each side and place
them down. One player stands five yards in a line beyond each hurdle with their
partner with the ball standing 10 yards directly in front of them. The drill begins with
each player with the ball passing it to their partner. The receiving player controls the
ball and passes it back, then goes down to their stomach and back up again. After
receiving the second pass the player shuffles to the hurdle and jumps over and back
again. The drill is continuous for one minute. Switch roles and repeat. Switch sides and
repeat.

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3) Four cones are used to create a 3 yard by 3 yard box. One player stands in between two
cones and another player stands on the opposite line, each player facing out. Each
player has a partner that stands 10 yards away with a soccer ball. One player with the
ball passes the ball on the ground. The other player with the ball throws it in the air to
the other player’s hands. Players rotate inside the grid after one pass. The drill is
continuous for one minute. Switch the players inside with the ones outside.

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 4) There are six players and four soccer balls in a 10 yard by 10 yard area. A player with a
ball is positioned on the line between two cones. Two players are inside the grid.
Player X1 delivers the ball to the player’s chest. The player must control quickly and
pass it back. Player X2 throws a medicine ball to the player’s hands. The player catches
and throws it back. Player X3 serves the ball to the player for a 1-touch inside foot
volley back to the hands. Player X4 passes the ball on the ground. The player must
receive with one touch and pass back with the second touch. The drill is continuous for
one minute, then switch the players.

End of Classroom Session

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96 ACF FIORENTINA TRAINING SESSION

Players warmed up and stretched on a separate field with an assistant coach before coming to the
training field for circuits.

Circuit #1- Six players are in an area approximately 10 yards by 15 yards. Three players have a soccer
ball and three do not. Player X1 passes the ball to the player that shows for it. Player X2 bounces the
ball to the player that shows for it. The player must control and pass it back quickly. Player X3 throws
the ball to the player’s hands. The player catches the ball and throws it back.

Circuit #2- Players play possession in a 10 yard by 15 yard area using an American Football. Players have
top adjust to the unpredictability of the ball and must try to keep possession. There are no rules
regarding how the ball is passed, just that they cannot use their hands in the process.

Circuit #3- The drill is set up in a 10 yard by 15 yard area. The grid is divided into two equal halves with
two coaching sticks and a tether strung shoulder height between the two sticks. The drill is 3v.3 and
players play tennis and can use any body part to control the ball and play it back over. There are no
touch limits to play the ball back over. The only rule is that players cannot use their hands at any time in
the drill.

Players remain in their circuit for 10 minutes and then rotate to the next circuit. Players receive 90
seconds between circuits for rest and water, but must begin exactly 90 seconds after the last one ended.

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Scrimmage Game Without the Ball (Ghost Game)- The game played after the circuits was done to build
communication and to further work on fitness in match conditions. Goals were created using coaching
sticks plugged into the ground and made to be official size. The field of play was played using half of a
half of the field from end line to midfield. Two equal teams of 8 were made with one team defending
one goal and the other defending the other goal. Goalkeepers were used for this drill. One team begins
with possession and they pass the ball by calling out a player. The player that is called has possession
and can run or attack as he wants. If he is tagged by an opposing player than that player now has the
ball. You score by the person with the ball running through the stick goal before being tagged. The
game was played for about 15 minutes before adding a ball into the game and encouraging the same
quick movements.

Scrimmage- Teams played on slightly more than half of the field and played a normal scrimmage game
for 20 minutes.

Cooldown- Players cooled down by jogging and stretching on their own.

End of Session

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Wednesday, 2 December (10:00am)

Lecture/ Video

Long Passing (Adaptation/Transformation, Combination/Coupling, Orientation/Spatial Awareness)

1) Two players stand 30-40 yards apart passing a ball back and forth. Players work on
driving the ball with the instep and focus on accuracy in their passes.
2) There are four players in the drill. The two player X1’s pass back and forth and are a
distance of approximately ten yards away from each other. Player X2 stands 10 yards
behind each player X1. On the signal, both player X2’s make a run forward and to the
side. Player X1 who receives the ball and sees the run makes a long pass into the space
in front of player X2. Drill is continuous. Switch players from inside to outside after 2-3
minutes.

3) Three players are spread out in a line and are separated by 20 yards. Player X1 begins
the drill by passing the ball to player X2 in the middle. Player X2 deflects the ball into
the space to player X3 who is making a run forward. Player’s X1 and X2 shift down.
Player X3 receives the ball and dribbles to the starting point. Drill is continuous.

45
 4) 2 Groups of three players in a 20 yard by 30 yard grid. Each group passes the ball by
throwing the ball to one another. Each group follows the pattern of a short pass,
followed by a short pass, and then a long pass (short/short/long).
5) Same as above, except now players use their feet and follow the same pattern of
short/short/long.
6) 8 players are in the same 20 yard by 30 yard grid. Two players wear yellow bibs, two
players wear red bibs, two players wear blue bibs and two players wear orange bibs.
Players maintain possession by throwing the ball to each other, but are not allowed to
throw to someone in the same colored bib.
7) Same as above, except now players use their feet and follow the same rule as before.
Work with the players to pass long and short mixing their passes. Make sure players are
moving to create space and are showing for the ball as an option.

Heading (Time/Space, Combination/Coupling, Anticipation)

1) Two cones are set 3 yards apart. Two players are used with one standing five yards in
front of the cones. The second player stood with them holding a ball in their hands. The
drill begins with the player without the ball touching the ball then backing up to the
cones. As the player is backing up the player with the ball tosses it up and the other
players sets and heads it back to their partner’s hands. Drill is continuous for one
minute, and then players switch roles.

46
2) The drill takes place in a 10 yard by 10 yard area with four players and two soccer balls.
Two players are holding a ball(X1) and two players are without (X2). All players move
around inside the grid. On command, player X2 performs a forward roll and then comes
up to receive a ball in the air and head it back to player X1. The drill is continuous for
one minute, then players switch roles.

3) There are four cones, a hurdle, a fitness ring and a soccer ball included in this drill. Two
cones are set three yards apart and the player stands between the two cones. Ten
yards in front of the cones is the hurdle. Three yards directly in front of the hurdle is the
fitness ring. Seven yards in front of the fitness ring (10 yards in front of the hurdle) are
the other two cones separated by three yards. The coach stands between those two
cones holding the soccer ball. The drill begins with the player jogging up to the hurdle
and jumping over with both feet. The coach throws the ball in the air and the player has
to time their jump and catch the ball in the air. The player must land with both of their
feet inside the fitness ring. The drill is continuous for a total of ten jumps.
4) The drill is the same as #3, except the player must now head the ball back to the coach
while timing their jump and landing in the fitness ring with both feet. To make the drill
more challenging, vary the distance of the ring from the hurdle. You can even place a
second or third fitness ring, one left, one central, one right to add to the difficulty and
focus the player on controlling their body while focusing on the ball and its delivery.

47
5) There are four players, a jump rope and a soccer ball in this exercise. Two players
control the jump rope, one holds the ball outside the jump rope and the fourth player is
jumping rope. The player jumps rope and the player with the ball tosses the ball to the
player inside. The player must catch the ball and toss it back while jumping rope at the
same time. The drill is continuous for one minute.
6) Same as #5, except the player must head the ball instead of catching the ball. The drill is
continuous for one minute.
7) The coach and the player stand together with a cone line ten yards in front of them.
The coach holds a ball. The drill begins with the coach tossing a ball high in the air
towards the cone line. The player must run around the ball and prevent it from crossing
the line with their head, then dribble the ball back to the coach.

48
8) Three players stand in a line, each separated by ten yards. The first player is holding a
ball. The drill begins with player X1 tossing the ball in the air over the head of player X2.
Player X2 has to adjust and head the ball forward so it continues to player X3. Player X1
and player X2 switch. Player X3 tosses the ball over the head of player X1 who must
adjust and head it to player X1. Player X1 and player X3 switch. The drill is continuous.
9) Same as #8, except make the distances 20 yards between players instead of 10 yards.
Make sure the tosses are higher and challenge the players to move to adjust to the flight
of the ball.
10) Same, except make the distances now 25-30 yards. Work on the tosses to make sure
they are challenging the players to move and adjust to the flight of the ball.

49
Psychomotricity is the foundation of technical abilities.

The ball brings in the technical ability, the but objective is the Coordinative Capability and not the
technique. You cannot focus or be interested in the quality of the technique at this stage of
development.

Fakes/Feinting (Reaction, Adaptation and Transformation, Creativity)

1) This is a normal passing line. Three players in each line (6 total) are separated by 20
yards. The first player in the first line starts with the ball. The drill begins with that first
player passing the ball to the first player in the opposite line, then jogging towards
them. The receiving player controls and dribbles at the oncoming player, then makes a
move to the side to create space. The player then passes to the next player in the other
line and does the same. The drill is continuous.

2) A circle the size of the center circle is made with cones. Inside the circle is a fitness ring,
a hurdle, a coaching stick laying on the ground, and a couple of standing cones. Two
players without a ball stand inside the circle. The drill begins with the players moving as
quickly as they can around the circle avoiding the obstacles inside the circle. Players
need to move towards an obstacle and quickly fake and move away. Players need to
work on hip and shoulder fakes as they make the move towards and away from
obstacles. The drill is continuous for one minute.
3) This drill is the same as #2, except players now use a ball and have top control their ball
towards an obstacle and move away as quickly as they can. The drill is continuous for
one minute.

50
4) This drill takes place in a 20 yard wide by 10 yard long grid. There is a large goal at one
end of the long end of the grid. Three players (defenders) stand 5-6 yards in front of the
goal spread out. Another player stands on the other wide end of the grid. No ball is
used in this first stage. The drill begins with the player attempting to get by the
defenders and run into the goal. The player cannot run through the players, but must
fake and get around them. The defenders try to keep the player in front of them and
prevent the player from getting behind them.
5) Same as above, except the player has a soccer ball. The defenders are not allowed to
steal or take the ball away, but try to keep the player with the ball in front of them.

51
6) Three standing cones are in line and separated by five yards each. A player starts five
yards behind the first cone without a ball. The drill begins with the player jogging up to
the first cone, faking, then moving past the cone to the next cone. The player does the
same through all three cones and finishes by jogging five yards after the last cone.
7) Same as #6, except the player now has a soccer ball. The player needs to focus on
keeping control of the ball, but faking with their shoulders and hips.

52
Tackle (Differentiation, Space/Time Orientation, Anticipation)
1) Two players and one ball are separated by 10 yards. One player has the ball and the
other player is without the ball. The player with the ball starts dribbling at the player
without. The player without makes a tackle to steal the ball. Switch roles.

2) Two players standing next to each other, one with a soccer ball. The drill begins with
the player with the ball dribbling forward. The player without the ball quickly comes
forward and makes a tackle from the side. Switch roles.

53
3) Two players without a ball are shoulder to shoulder facing the coach who is ten yards in
front of them with a soccer ball. The drill begins with the coach tossing the ball in the
air. The players battle to win the ball and pass it back to the coach.

4) Two players face each other with a ball sitting between them. On the signal the players
hit the ball at the same time with their laces.
5) Two players jog around in a ten yard by ten yard area and on the coach’s signal the
players jump up in the air towards one another and chest bump each other.
6) Five cones are set in a line and are separated by three yards each. A soccer ball is
placed in the space between the cones for a total of four soccer balls. A player is on
each side of the line of cones five yards away moving and jogging. On the coach’s signal,
the two players run to the ball called by the coach and hit it before the other player.

54
 7) One player stands next to the coach who has a soccer ball at their feet. The drill begins
with the coach passing the ball out in front of the player. The player quickly catches up
to the ball and slide tackles it away.
8) Same as above, except a player stands on each side of the coach. Begin with the right
side being the defender slide tackling then switch it to the left side after each defender
has gone three times. The ball is played out by the coach. The player on the left runs to
catch up to the ball. The player on the right catches up and slide tackles it away.
9) This is the same as #8, except the coach bounces the ball in front of the players instead
of passing it out.

Dribbling (Anticipation, Adaptation and Transformation, Creativity)

1) This is a normal passing line. Three players in each line (6 total) are separated by 20 yards. The
first player in the first line starts with the ball. The drill begins with that first player passing the
ball to the first player in the opposite line, then jogging towards them. The receiving player
controls and dribbles at the oncoming player, then makes a move to the side to create space.
The player then passes to the next player in the other line and does the same. The drill is
continuous.

55
2) Two cones are set up five yards apart with a player standing in the middle with a ball at
their feet. The player juggles the ball and, when they are ready, kick the ball up high
and run around one of the cones and back in the middle. The player tries to get back in
time to catch the ball. Drill is continuous for one minute.
3) Same, except the player tries to get back in time to continue to juggle the ball. Drill is
continuous for one minute.

4) Two coaching sticks are separated by 10 yards and have a tether running between them
that is between shoulder height and waist height. The player juggles the ball on one
side of the tether and, when they are ready, kick the ball up and switch to the other side
of the tether. The drill is continuous for one minute.

56
5) The drill is set up in a 20 yard by 20 yard area. On three of the sides there are two cones
that are separated by 3 yards. A hurdle is placed in the middle and on the open side
(See setup in diagram). The player begins by running to the hurdle and jumping over it,
then turning to their right and running through to cone gate. The player continues by
running back into the middle and jumping over the hurdle again. The player then
advances forward and jumps over and back over the hurdle on the line. The player then
jumps over the hurdle in the middle again and out to the cone gate on the left. The
player comes back in the middle and jumps over the hurdle and runs through the cone
gate at the start.
6) The drill is the same as above, except the player now goes under the hurdles instead of
hopping over them.
7) Now the player has a soccer ball and dribbles to each point and performs the action. At
the hurdles the player jumps over and pushes the ball under the hurdle. At the cone
gates the player dribbles through and around one of the cones.
8) Same as #7, except the player chips the ball over the hurdle and crawls under the
hurdle. The player does the same as above at the cone gates.

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9) A large goal has three hurdles set up on the goal line; one central, one right and one left.
A cone gate is set 10 yards in front of the goal with the hurdles and is separated by five
yards. A player without the ball stands between the cones while another player stands
6-8 yards in front of the cone goal with a ball. The player with the ball begins by
dribbling towards the other player and tries to beat them between the cone goal. The
defender can only defend between the cones and cannot come forward or go backward.
Once the player with the ball gets beyond the defender they look to pass the ball under
one of the hurdles.

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End of Video/ Discussion

It is important to understand that every time a player has to execute a technical capability there are
coordinative capabilities that apply. It is important to understand that with young players you must
develop the coordinative capabilities before you build the technical capabilities.

Children used to be more active 10-15 years ago. They used to be outside running around, jumping and
skipping and developed coordinative capabilities naturally. Things have now changed to where kids are
not as active as they used to be and it becomes our responsibility to develop these coordinative
capabilities through training and exercises.

Motor Capacities

Physical Capacities are divided into Conditional Capabilities. These are:

CONDITIONING COORDINATION FLEXIBILITY CENTRAL

REFLEX
MOVEMENT

Conditional

1) Strength- This is the capability to win over resistance. Resistance can be internal or external. An
example of internal would be body movement and an example of external would be opposition.
2) Speed- This is the capability to move in space in less time. Speed = Space / Time. Power =
Strength x Speed / Time.
3) Endurance- There are three types of muscle fiber (2a, 2b, 2x). These can be improved up to two
times their normal capacity.
4) Power- This is one of the most important elements in a soccer player. This is the connection
between speed and strength.

Kinds of Strength

1) This is the time of application or execution.

2) This is the percentage of muscle fiber that is stimulated.
a. Instantaneous- This takes less than one second for a response and uses 30% of fiber.
b. Explosiveness- This takes approximately 1 ½ seconds for a response and uses 50% of
fiber.
c. Maximum- This takes approximately 3-3 ½ seconds for a response and uses 90% of fiber.

End of Lecture

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 SPEED

METABOLIC AND MUSCLE ANTHRAPROMETRIC

FUNCTIONAL FACTORS AND ANAGRAPHIC
FACTORS FACTORS

Types of Speed- Speed can be trained, but within genetic limitations.

1) Perceptive- Sight, hearing, touch. Perceptive Speed must be trained. Ex: Whistle in the game.
2) Anticipation- Ability to anticipate in the right way. This is also a coordinative capability.
3) Decision- To determine the correct decision in the least amount of time. This must be elastic as
the game is constantly changing.
4) Reaction- This is also a coordinative capability. Reaction Speed is divided into 3 phases:
a. Preparation- The referee moves his whistle towards his mouth.
b. Latency- Time of issue to the response. This is when the referee blows the whistle.
c. Execution- The time it takes to react.

2 Types of Reaction

1) Simple- Only involves small parts of the body (Head, Arm, etc.)
2) Complex- It involves the whole body.

Conditions to Train Speed

1) Genetic Limitations
2) Limitations of Height and Weight
3) Limitations of Age
4) Limitations of Center of Gravity
5) Gender Limitations (Male or Female)

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97 ACF FIORENTINA TRAINING SESSION (Psycho-Motricity Session- Basic Motor Skill Development)

The session was run with a group of 97’s, but it is normally run with younger aged kids (6-9 year olds).
This was done for demonstration purposes for the course. The field is a small-sided field that was
divided into four quadrants for circuit training. Each circuit had a specific purpose and set of exercises. I
will diagram each in a separate diagram, but it is important to understand that the diagram represents
one-quarter of the field as all players operated at the same time, just divided into four equal groups, for
the purpose of this exercise.
Circuit #1- The upper left quadrant had five separate lines that the players worked at. They rotated
through after performing each for 60 seconds.
Line #1- Two cone gates were placed 20 yards apart and were three yards in size. In the middle
of the two cone gates was a coaching stick standing straight up. The cone gates and the stick
made a straight line that was 20 yards apart. The exercise would begin with the first player in
line jogging to the coaching stick and would jog around it. It is important to understand that the
player did not shuffle around the stick, but always jogged around facing the direction they were
jogging. The player then jogged to the far cone gate and then back to the coaching stick in the
middle to do the same. The player then jogged to the starting cone gate and the waiting player
would then do the same.
Line #2- There were 6 cones used to set up this line, three separate cone gates that were 3 yards
apart. The first cone gate was the starting point. The second cone gate was 10 yards in front of
the first cone gate. The final cone gate was a further 10 yards in front of the second cone gate.
The final setup had three cone gates in a line and were each separated by 10 yards for a total of
20 yards. The exercise began with the first player in line holding a medicine ball and jogging
with it in their hands to the far cone gate. The second player stayed and waited in the starting
cone gate. The player then turned and ran back to the middle cone gate and threw the
medicine ball to the first player. Once he threw the medicine ball he performed a forward roll
and came up standing. The player receiving the ball would then throw it back right away. The
player would receive the ball back and throw it again to the waiting player and they would
switch positions.
Line #3- The second line was the same distance (20 yards) and had a cone gate at the start and a
cone gate 20 yards away. In the middle was a large hurdle that was slightly less than waist
height. The exercise would begin with the first player in line jogging up to the hurdle and
jumping over it, then jogging to the far cone gate. The player would then come back and would
crawl under the hurdle and then jog to the beginning. The waiting player in line would then do
the same.
Line #4- Two cone gates are separated by 20 yards with three standup cones in the middle that
are one yard apart. The exercise begins with the first player jogging up to the standing cones
and then weaving through them. Once through they jog to the far cone gate and back to the
middle to weave through the cones again. The player then jogs to the starting cone gate and
the next player in line does the same.
Line #5- The final line has a bench in the middle of two cone gates that are separated by 20
yards. The player jogs up next to the bench, puts their hands on the bench and hops over the

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 bench to the other side and back again. The player does this four times, two times to one side
and two time to the other side, before jogging to the far cone gate. The player then jogs back to
the bench and does the same before jogging back to the starting cone gate. The next player in
line then jogs out and does the same.

Circuit #2- This is set up in the upper right quadrant of the field. There are four coaching sticks laying on
the ground, four small hurdles, four medium hurdles, and four standing cone gates that are three yards
wide spread around the quadrant. Players work for 60 seconds and rest for 60 seconds in this quadrant
by running around to the various obstacles in the quadrant. Players jump over the hurdles, weave
around the standing cones in the cone gate, and go over the coaching sticks and back with two up and
two back before continuing to the next obstacle. It is their choice how they move around the quadrant.

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Circuit #3- This is set up in the lower right quadrant of the field. A cone gate is set up as the start that is
3 yards wide. Five yards away there are three tall standing cones that are one yard apart. Five yards
away from the last standing cone is a small hurdle. Five yards from the hurdle is a fitness ring lying on
the ground. All are in line with one another. The exercise begins with the player dribbling/ bouncing the
ball with one hand while weaving through the cones. Once they weave through the cones the player
stops in front of the hurdle and attempts to throw the ball in the air so that it lands in the fitness circle.
The player then hops over the hurdle and retrieves the ball. While coming back the player holds the ball
with both hands over their head, jumps over the hurdle and weaves around the cones back to the
starting cone gate. The second time through the player attempts to side foot volley the ball by dropping
it from their hands and attempting to land the ball in the middle of the fitness circle. Players alternate
between throwing and side volleying the ball. Players should also alternate bouncing the ball first with
their right and the next time with their left. The drill is continuous.

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Circuit #4- This is set up in the lower left quadrant of the field. Two rectangles are set up, the smaller
one inside the larger one. The larger rectangle is set up with large standing cones on each corner and is
8 yards wide by 15 yards long. The smaller rectangle is set up with jump ropes as lines and is 5 yards
wide by 10 yards long. The smaller grid is divided in half using two coaching sticks and a tether. The
tether is head height. The exercise also uses a medicine ball that the players throw back and forth. The
drill begins with two players on one side of the tether and two on the other side. The two players with
the medicine ball begin by throwing it back and forth to each other four times, then throwing it over the
tether to the other team. The first time they throw the ball over they run to the large standing cone on
the corner of the larger grid and back in before the ball is delivered back over. The second time they
have to do a forward roll and come up and prepare for the ball to be sent over. The game is continuous.

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Players worked in the circuits for approximately 30 minutes rotating between stations so that every
player had the chance to work at every station in the Basic Motor Skills Training. These types of sessions
are designed to build and develop basic motor skills, such as running, balance, coordination, flexibility,
etc. The session shown was designed for kids that would be of a much younger age. The Fiorentina
Philosophy is that the focus needs to begin with basic motor skills and not with technique. Players need
to develop natural coordinative capabilities of balance and coordination and flexibility and proper
running technique before they can develop technique with a ball. Otherwise, the development of the
player will be limited and they will not reach their potential as players at the older ages.

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97 ACF FIORENTINA TRAINING SESSION (Psycho-Motricity Session- Basic Motor Skill Development for
Older Ages)

The next section illustrates Psych-Motricity Training for children between the ages of 9-12. The
philosophy is that this needs to continue developing through their development years. The focus would
begin to shift to the ball, but this cannot just be abandoned when they reach 9 years old as players go
through a natural awkwardness in their development during these years that needs to be addressed in
training and development. This session was set up on one side of a full-sized soccer field and had three
separate stations. Players rotated through the stations after working at a station for approximately 5
minutes. Again, for ease and understanding I will diagram each circuit separately so that you can better
understand the setup and progression of each one.
Circuit#1- The start of this station was a fitness circle that the player would stand in. There was a
triangle with large standing cones around the fitness circle within touching reach of the fitness circle. 4-
5 yards in front of the fitness circle and triangle was a small box that was 3 yards by 3 yards made from
disc cones. Five yards in front of the small box were four fitness rings set out in a diamond shape with a
space for a player to stand in the middle of them (see diagram below for details and understanding).
The circuit began with the player stepping into the fitness circle and balancing on one leg. The player
had to touch the standing cones outside the fitness circle while remaining balanced on one leg. Once
they touched all three standing cones they would hop forward and do a forward roll out of the fitness
circle and jog up to the small box. Once inside the small box they would balance on one leg and hold it
for 3-5 seconds before jogging out. After jogging out of the small box they would stand in the middle of
the diamond and balance on one leg. The player would hop into the fitness circle and balance on the
outside leg. They would hop back in the middle and then forward. Players would hop into all four
fitness circles making sure to the sides they balanced on the outside leg and the one forward and
backward they used a different leg for each. Players would then turn and jog back to the beginning
making sure not to disturb the next player going. The drill is continuous.

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Circuit #2- There is a cone set out as the starting point of the drill. Five yards in front there are four disc
cones in a line one after the other positioned on the left side followed by two yards of space and then a
line of four disc cones positioned on the right. Immediately after the line of cones on the right is a small
box that is approximately 4 yards by 4 yards. This is followed by two yards of space and then a series of
small hurdles. There are a total of seven small hurdles used. The first three are tight together with just
enough space for the player to step. The fourth hurdle has one yard of space between the third and
fourth hurdle. There is another yard of space before the next two hurdles, which are tight together.
The exercise begins with the player moving to the line of disc cones to their left. They jog alongside the
line of cones while thrusting their left leg up and down. Once they reach the end they jog over to the
other line of cones and do the same thrusting their right leg up and down. When they reach the small
box they skip through. After skipping through they will reach the hurdles and should run through the
hurdles while judging the space and keeping on the balls of their feet. Players complete the exercise by
turning and jogging back to the start position of the drill. The drill is continuous.

Circuit #3- A cone is set out as the starting point of the exercise. Two yards up from the starting cone
are two medium hurdles positioned on the left. After one yard of space there are two more medium
hurdles, but these positioned on the right. Two yards in front of those medium hurdles is a coaching
stick lying on the ground. Two yards in front of the coaching stick are four fitness rings in the shape of a
diamond with no space between them. Two yards in front of the fitness rings are three coaching sticks

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standing upright in a line and separated by one yard. Three yards in front of the last coaching stick and
angled to the right is a medium hurdle. Three yards up from the hurdle is another hurdle angled to the
left. The exercise begins with the player moving to the hurdles on the left and while jogging through on
the side thrust their left leg over each hurdle. After clearing the last hurdle on the left the player moves
to the right and does the same with the right leg. After clearing the last hurdle the players approach the
coaching stick on the ground. The player goes forward over the coaching stick with both legs forward,
then back over so that both legs are back before proceeding forward again (it should be forward,
backward and forward). Players work on quick feet. After working over the coaching stick the players
approach the fitness rings and hop in the first one landing on their right leg only. The player then opens
their legs so that the right one lands inside the right ring and the left one lands inside the left ring. The
player then hops forward balancing on their left leg before hopping forward. The player then jogs up to
the standing coaching sticks and serpentines through them. After clearing the coaching sticks the player
hops over the hurdle to the right and jogs over and hops over the hurdle to their left. The player then
jogs back to the beginning. The drill is continuous.

The progression of the circuit training was to include running exercises that involved decision-making by
the players. The exercise has three starting disc cones that are separated by 5 yards. Players line up
behind the disc cones and face forward. In front of their cone another 5 yards is another disc cone.
Four standing cones are 10 yards in front of the last set of disc cones and spread out equally spaced in

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the shape of a half-moon. Each line has a standing cone numbered specifically and differently for them.
It is as follows:

Line #1- The diagram below shows the first line and how the cones are numbered for them. The coach
has them start jogging forward to the second small disc and calls a number 1-4. The player then has to
sprint towards that cone and beyond it.

Line #2- The diagram below shows the second line and how the cones are numbered for them. The
coach has them start jogging forward to the second small disc and calls a number 1-4. The player then
has to sprint towards that cone and beyond it.

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Line #3- The diagram below shows the third line and how the cones are numbered for them. The coach
has them start jogging forward to the second small disc and calls a number 1-4. The player then has to
sprint towards that cone and beyond it.

The exercise progressed to where the players went through basic plyometric exercises from the first
small cone to the second before sprinting to the numbered cone called. Exercises called were as
follows:

High Knees
Heels up
Carioca
Side-to-Side Shuffle (Face Upfield)
Side-to-Side Shuffle (Face Downfield)
High Skips
Backwards/ Turn and Sprint

Another exercise was demonstrated by their PsychoMotricity Expert to give further examples of
exercises to do for older players or positional players. Three cones are set in a line and separated by 10
yards each for a total of 20 yards. Players begin at the first cone and jog towards the middle cone. At
the middle cone players perform a forward roll then come up and jog to the far cone. Once they reach
the far cone they turn and jog back towards the middle cone again. At the middle cone they again
perform a forward roll and then jog through past the start cone. The second time they run the player
tuck their right arm in and do a forward roll again. They do the same coming back through. The third
run they tuck their left arm and do a forward roll. The forth run through the players do a cartwheel.
The fifth time through the players do a hand stand and attempt to hold it for 3 seconds before falling

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over into a roll. Players then jog to the end before coming back to the middle to do the same again. The
sixth time through the players do ‘the worm’. This is where the player jumps forward and lands on their
hands while gently bringing their body down to the ground. Players now get a ball for this next exercise.
Players jog to the middle cone holding their ball. They throw their ball up in the air high and do a
forward roll coming up to catch the ball before it hits the ground and jogging to the end cone. Players
then turn and come back and do the same in the middle again. The next run players jog out holding
their ball and do a forward roll on their ball keeping it as close to their head as possible.

Half-Field Game (8v.8)- Two teams of 8 players each played across half of the field throwing the ball to
each other in order to keep possession. Players scored by throwing to a teammate and that player
heading it into the goal. There are no goalkeepers in the goal (empty goal). The coach encouraged
movement off of the ball.

Half-Field Game (8v.8)- Two equal teams of 8 players each played across half of the field. Teams
possessed the ball with their feet, but could only score by serving a ball over the end line to another
teammate in the air. The teammate had to win the ball with either their head, chest, or thigh.

Cooldown- Players cooled down on their own by jogging around and stretching for 5-6 minutes.

End of Session

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ACF FIORENTINA PRIMAVERA TRAINING SESSION (RESERVE TEAM- DAY BEFORE MATCH TRAINING)

20 Players Participated in this Session

Warm-up- Players lined up across the field at the midfield line and jogged to the 6 yard box, each time
performing a different exercise.
Lap #1- Players made a slow jog to the 6 yard box and back.
Lap #2- Players made a slow jog to the 6 yard box and back.
Lap #3- Players made a slow jog to the 6 yard box and back.
Lap #4- Players skip forward while rolling their arms forward together. Players did this for half
of the run to the 6 yard box, then switched to rolling their arms together backwards. Coming
back from the 6 yard box players skipped while rolling their arms forward with one arm starting
high and the other arm low so that they were always opposite. The players did this halfway and
then switched so that their arms were doing the same backwards.
Lap #5- Players skipped while swinging their arms up and down while always keeping them
opposite (one up and one down). They did this halfway and then switched to skipping with
trunk twists. Coming back to midfield players shuffled facing one direction and then switched to
face the other direction.

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Lap #6- Players jogged out with high knees for half and then switched to heels up for half.
Coming back the players did carioca facing one direction for half and then switched to face the
other direction for half.
Lap #7- Players shuffled backwards side-to-side half way and then switched facing forward while
shuffling side-to-side the other half. Coming back the players jogged at 60%.
Lap #8- Players made a slow jog down and a 75% run while weaving coming back.

Leg Stretch- Two players. One player extends their leg out in front of them while the other
holds their leg up waist height in front of them. The player leaned forward on the leg to the
toes to stretch. Players stretched both legs and then their partner stretched their legs.
Leg Stretch- Same as above, except the player extended their leg out to the side for the stretch.
Players stretched both legs and then their partner stretched their legs.
Leg Stretch- Same as above, except the player extended their leg out behind them. Their
partner held their leg while they bent on the supporting leg a few inches and then back up. The
player did this 3-4 times before switching legs. Players stretched both legs and then their
partner stretched their legs.

Lap #9- The players jogged and kicked their leg up high in front of them bringing their knee into
their chest before putting it down again. They continued this while jogging forward. Coming
back the players kicked their legs up high and touched their toes with the opposite hand. They
did this for half the way back and then kicked their legs out to the side the second half back.
Lap #10- Players would jog out and then open the gates, place it down and then close the gates
all at once on one leg. Players did this for half of the distance to the 6 yard box and then players
swung their leg out in front of them and then behind and around and back down for the second
half of the run. Coming back the players for half of the distance would kick their leg out behind
them while leaning slightly forward. The second half of the distance the players just jogged
back.
Lap #11- Players jogged at a 60% rate to the6 yard box and then 60% back while weaving.

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The second half of the field had already been set up for circuits for the players to move into after their
dynamic warm-up running laps with exercises on the other half of the field.

Circuit #1- Cones were used to create four separate lines that were 5 yards apart. Each line had a cone
that was 5 yards away and a third cone that was another 5 yards from the second cone. This made a
straight line with three cones that were each separated by 5 yards for a total of 10 yards (see diagram
below). Players were divided into four lines of five players each and lined up on the starting cones.
Players made runs while each time performing a different exercise. They were as follows:
Run #1- Players jogged with high knees to the second cone and then fast high knees to the third
cone. Players were in a line and went together and walked back to the starting cone after
completing the run.
Run #2- Players leaned forward and jogged with high knees to the second cone and then high
knees with their body up to the third cone. Players were in a line and went together and walked
back to the starting cone after completing the run.
Run #3- Players jogged while thrusting their right leg up until they reached the second cone and
then switched to thrusting their left leg up until they reached the third cone. Players were in a
line and went together and walked back to the starting cone after completing the run.
Run #4- Players thrust their right leg up and then one jog in between before thrusting up their
left leg until they reached the second cone. Once they reached the second cone players jogged
with high and fast knees to the third cone. Players were in a line and went together and walked
back to the starting cone after completing the run.
Run #5- Players faced one direction and did high knees while facing sideways and moving
forward. Once they reached the second cone they switched directions and went with high
knees again facing the other side. Players were in a line and went together and walked back to
the starting cone after completing the run.
Run #6- Players leaned forward and picked up their heels to their second cone with an emphasis
on pumping their arms. Once they reached the second cone the players jogged with high knees
with an emphasis on pumping their arms. Players were in a line and went together and walked
back to the starting cone after completing the run.
Run #7- Players ran while picking their feet up inside and touching their feet with their hands
(cowboy up) to the second cone. Once they reached the second cone the players switched to
kicking their heels up to the outside while slapping their feet with their hands. Players were in a
line and went together and walked back to the starting cone after completing the run.
Run #8- Players leaned forward with high knees and an emphasis on pumping their arms for half
of the distance to the second cone before leaning more forward and sprinting beyond the third
cone. Players were in a line and went together and walked back to the starting cone after
completing the run.
Run #9- Players jog diagonally to the second cone across from them while the player in the line
next to them does the same to their cone. Once they reach the second cone they sprint back to
their own third cone. Players should be spaced with this drill and wait until the player in front of
them reaches the second cone before going. Once their run is complete they do not return to
the start and move on to the next circuit as set up by the coaches.

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Circuit #2- There are four different stations in this circuit and players were divided by position for the
circuits.
Station #1- A cone gate with two large standing cones served as the starting point. Two small
disc cones were set up 15 yards in front of the large cones. Each cone gate was 3 yards wide.
There were two separate lines of this set up next to one another. The drill begins with a player
standing between the large cones with their right hand on top of the right cone. The coach
emphasized their starting position where they had one foot up and one foot back leaning
forward with one hand on the right cone. On the coach’s whistle the players sprinted beyond
the disc cones 15 yards up field. Players walked backed to the side so that the next two players
could go. The next time through the players put their left hand on the left cone. Players did a
total of four runs, to with their right hand on the cone and two with their left hand on the cone.
This drill included the defenders and midfielders only. After completing their four trips through
the station they switch with the players in station #2.
Station #2- Two small benches that were approximately one foot wide and 4 foot long were set
up next to each other and separated by three yards. They were level with the tall cones in the
drill next to them and two small disc cone goals were set in line 15 yards away with the other
disc cone goals from the other drill. The drill begins with the player sitting on the bench with
their hands held high above their heads. The players react to the same whistle as the first group
and then sprint to the small cone goal 15 yards away. The players walk back around the side so
that the next two players could go. Each player performed the exercise a total of four times.
This drill included the defenders and midfielders only. After completing their four trips through
the station they switch with the players in station #1.
Station #3- Two small and long hurdles sat parallel to each other separated by 1-2 yards
(enough space for a player to stand between them). The hurdles were level with the large cones

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 and the benches and they also had a small disc cone goal 15 yards away even with the other
small cone goals. The drill begins with the player standing between the hurdles. On the whistle
the player goes two feet over to the right, then back to the middle, to the left, back to the
middle, and then the player sprints forward to the small goal. The player walks back around the
side so that the next player can go. Each player performed the exercise a total of four times.
The drill included the forwards only.
Station #4- A ladder is set out with the first square or wrung of the ladder being even with the
large cones and the benches and hurdles. The first two times through the ladder the players go
with two feet in each square through the entire ladder and then sprint to the small cone goal 15
yards away. The next two times through the players start with two feet in both, but at the
square that is half the distance through the ladder the player goes with one foot out to the right
and one foot out to the left and then both back in before sprinting to the small cone goal ahead.
This station was open and unattended for the first leg of the drills. Once the players were done
in station #3 they moved over to station #4 when the other players switched.

No further rotations or switching within the circuits was done. The players moved on to the next part of
the training.

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Positional Play (Defending)- The coach laid out 10 bibs for the starting team in the shape of a 1-4-2-3-1
system. The starting team put on the bibs and positioned themselves on the field. The second team
took the shape of a 1-4-3-3 with an inverted triangle (2 Attacking CMF and 1 Defending CMF)
representing the shape of the opponent they would be playing in the next game.

The ball began with the opposing team’s goalkeeper with a pass to the central defender. The coach
stepped in and positioned the starting team where he wanted them when the ball was in the attacking
third and possessed by the central defender. He then instructed the central defender to pass the ball
out wide to the right defender and had the starting team adjust to where they should be positioned.

Had the opposing team possess the ball around the back of the defense and including the defensive
central midfielder instructing the starting team on their defensive shape. Switched their shape to where
the starting team was defending in a 1-4-4-2 formation. This was done by the following:

- Keeping the lone forward high and central to shepherd the ball out wide.
- Moving the attacking central midfielder high so they were 6-8 yards behind the lone
forward. They stayed central also and coordinated with the lone forward.
- The two defensive central midfielders pushed up into the space vacated by the
central midfielder, but were careful to stay behind the ball.

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 - The weak side outside midfielder pushed in to the middle to close the space
centrally.
- The ball side outside midfielder applied pressure closing the option of down the line
and encouraging a ball central or back.
- The four midfielders stayed tight and organized behind the ball.

The coach continued to have the opposing team possess the ball while the starting team worked on
their defensive shape. He also emphasized that when the central attacker came to receive the ball they
needed to have immediate pressure to force the ball back. Once they forced the ball to be played back
the central defender dropped back into shape.

Progression- Had the forwards more involved in high pressure and chasing the ball out wide. The
midfielders stayed back and looked for the moment when the opposing team was having difficulty.
When they read this they quickly stepped forward and high pressured and looked to win the ball as
quickly as possible. Once they won the ball they looked to play centrally and attack the goal right away.
When they won the ball they reverted back to their 1-4-2-3-1 shape.

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Progression- Had the opposing team with possession and the starting team working on defensive shape.
They looked for moments to high pressure and force the opposing team to lose the ball. Once they lost
the ball the starting team quickly possessed the ball through the opposing team who offered no
opposition (Shadow Play) and finished at goal. The coach looked for quick combinations to feet, but
encouraged the first ball to be played to the central midfielder or the forward.

Progression- The two teams play as normal with no conditions, but the coach still encourages when to
high pressure and looking for quick combinations to get forward and attack.

Progression- Had the players move one of the goals to between the 18 yard box and midfield cutting the
size of the field by one-third. Still had the players play 11v.11 with the same concepts of attacking and
defending and the shapes they had been using. Encouraged faster ball movement and play to feet. The
coach instructed players to move more effectively off of the ball.

Progression- Added in a lot of extra free kicks and corner kicks. This is a favorite exercise of his the day
before a game as he likes to incorporate extra free kicks and corner kicks in this drill. Players had 8-10
corner kick opportunities in attack and defense. The teams also had 5-6 free kicks in attack and defense.
The coach continued to work on the same principles of attacking and defending and switching from a 1-
4-2-3-1 to a 1-4-4-2 in defending.

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Cooldown- Players cooled down on their own by jogging around and stretching for 5-6 minutes.

End of Session

Written by: Robert Podeyn

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