NEWS
Principles of Play #1
APRIL 6, 2024
The #1 Principle of Play guiding John Jay Soccer while in possession is "Play Forward Whenever Possible." This principle underscores the need for quick, decisive actions to move the ball towards the opponent's goal. It is fundamental to our approach and reflected in our Winter Indoor Soccer Sessions, where our first requirement that needs to be met in order to ultimately score a goal is to advance the ball over midfield. While maintaining possession often requires lateral or backward passes, these are temporary measures used to retain possession and not turn the ball over, until an opportunity to play forward arises. We prioritize forward play without forcing it, ensuring we maintain possession while seeking attacking opportunities. Here is a breakdown of some of the key aspects:
Identify Options by Scanning: Players must constantly scan the field (take peaks) to assess the positioning of teammates and opponents. This helps in making informed decisions about the best direction to play the ball. It is impossible to make the proper decision when receiving the ball if a player has not scanned the field to know where teammates and defenders are and are moving.
Take Peeks and Keep Head Up: Taking peaks is so important and so underutilized by high school soccer players that we chose to list it twice! By frequently glancing over their shoulder or keeping their head up, players can maintain awareness of the game's dynamics. This allows them to see potential passing lanes and opportunities to advance the ball.
Penetrate Defensive Lines: Players should look to play penetrating passes or make dribbling runs that break through the opponent's defensive lines. This requires good timing, vision, and technical ability. The more defenders you are able to eliminate (remove from being between the ball and the goal we are attempting to score on), the better that pass ultimately is. We are always on the lookout for players who can penetrate and break defensive lines.
Drive Forward When Space is Available: When space opens up in front of them, players should be encouraged to drive forward with the ball. This not only advances the play but also forces the opposition to react and potentially create more space for teammates. This is contrary to what we frequently see from our players in dribbling into pressure, at defenders, and unnecessarily forcing the ball and turning it over, sacrificing possession. It is critical that players understand the difference between driving with the ball into available space and making the poor decision to risk losing possession by dribbling into pressure and defenders.
Overall, the principle emphasizes proactive and positive play, aiming to create scoring opportunities and keep the pressure on the opposition. At our core, we are a possession team, but possession with purpose!
You can find a full list of the John Jay Soccer Principles of Play here.
PLAYER RESOURCES