Developing Attacking Play-In Possession (12-16) PDF – The Ultimate Guide to Possession-Based Soccer
Mastering possession-based attacking play is crucial for developing intelligent, creative soccer players. The “Developing Attacking Play-In Possession (12-16)” PDF, created by Jackie Bushell of The FA, is a comprehensive coaching resource that breaks down England’s possession philosophy into actionable drills and tactical insights. Designed for youth coaches (ages 12-16), this guide emphasizes intelligent ball retention, progressive play, and clinical finishing—key pillars of modern soccer.
Whether you’re coaching grassroots or academy players, this document provides structured training sessions, game-based exercises, and psychological strategies to build a dominant attacking team.
Why This Possession Play Guide Is Essential for Coaches
1. England’s Possession Philosophy: More Than Just Passing
The PDF outlines The FA’s “In Possession” model, which focuses on:
- Intelligent domination of the ball (not just keeping it)
- Recognizing when to risk or retain possession
- Quick decision-making (passing, dribbling, or shielding)
For more on possession-based tactics, explore our guide on Building a Modern Soccer Philosophy.
2. Age-Appropriate Drills for Player Development
Tailored for ages 12-16, the exercises help players:
- Improve spatial awareness and movement off the ball
- Develop one-touch passing under pressure
- Learn when to penetrate defenses vs. when to recycle possession
Key Training Sessions from the PDF
1. Possession Skills Development (Small-Sided Games)
- Exercise: “21s” – Teams score points for consecutive passes + a goal (e.g., 10 passes + goal = 11 points).
- Coaching Focus:
- Technical: Inside/outside foot passes, quick transitions
- Psychological: Building confidence through positive reinforcement
2. Keeping vs. Risking Possession (Positional Play)
- Exercise: Blues vs. Yellows – Points awarded for:
- Safe passes (1 pt)
- Split passes (3 pts)
- Give-and-go combinations (5 pts)
- Progression: Adjust pitch size to increase/decrease pressure.
For more small-sided game ideas, check out Effective Possession Drills for Youth Soccer.
How to Implement These Principles in Training
1. Use the “3 R’s” Coaching Framework
- Relevance – Adapt drills to your team’s age/ability.
- Repetition – Ensure players practice key concepts frequently.
- Realism – Simulate match scenarios in training.
2. Focus on Four Phases of Possession Play
- Retaining & Building (Safe circulation)
- Progressing & Penetrating (Breaking lines)
- Creating & Scoring (Final-third efficiency)
- Transition (Reacting to turnovers)
3. Incorporate Psychological & Social Development
- Confidence-building through praise of effort/intent.
- Team communication during possession exercises.
For leadership techniques, visit Coaching the Mental Side of Soccer.
External Resources for Further Learning
- The FA’s Future Game – Gareth Southgate’s attacking masterclass.
- UEFA Grassroots Drills – Possession-based youth exercises.
Final Thoughts
The “Developing Attacking Play-In Possession (12-16)” PDF is a must-have for coaches who want to instill a proactive, possession-based style in their teams. By blending technical drills, tactical awareness, and psychological growth, this guide helps develop complete soccer players.
Ready to transform your team’s attacking play? Download the PDF and start applying these elite coaching methods today!
For more soccer resources, visit our Youth Coaching Hub.
Did You Know? England’s U21s executed a 35-pass move against Germany—a perfect example of intelligent possession play.