Curriculum U9 / 2025-2026

Organization The U9 training sessions can also be offered as a circuit (see U8 Training). The advantage of this is that the children get plenty of exercise in small groups and that the training is sufficiently varied. Coaches can participate with their own team. The exercises consist largely of game formats, competition formats, and exercises involving finishing on goal. Finally, small matches are played of up to 5-a-side. The second training session of the week consists of one technical exercise, followed by various competition formats. This allows the children to immediately apply what they have learned. Age Characteristics Children of this age have a strong urge to move. These children are individualistic and play primarily for themselves. The basic technique can be taught well to U9 players, although coordination is not yet optimal for everyone, and the learning pace is usually slow. As a result, those in possession of the ball need to pay a lot of attention to the ball and pay little attention to their fellow players. Learning Objectives Because this age group plays on a larger (quarter) pitch, the initial focus is on passing the ball and simple teamwork. Compared to the U8s, techniques should primarily be performed while moving. The practice materials still primarily consist of game and competition formats, encouraging playful learning. After an hour of training, all players should leave the pitch with a flushed face and a smile on their face.