How to design a football shooting session

So, how does this apply to your shooting session? 

Well, young or inexperienced players are more likely to favour simple finishes, like a toe poke or using their laces. These shots appeal to novice footballers because they involve less hip and foot movement. They also offer more power.   

If your team is very inexperienced, consider creating practices that pit one player against one keeper. This type of game means that individuals don't have to struggle past an opponent before trying to score.   

Another excellent starting point is to help your team work on the shots they're most comfortable with. Then, as their confidence increases, move on to more complex finishes – and involve more players.

Using lots of goals involves splitting your team into separate groups, which can feel a bit daunting. But don’t worry. Maximising the opportunity to shoot is a great way to create an engaging session that requires minimal management. However, if you’re concerned, you can ask parents to help.

Finally, don’t forget that a goal doesn't have to be a goal. If you're struggling, try using cones or even ‘jumpers for goalposts'. But remember: if you have a mix of makeshift and proper goals, make sure everyone has a chance to shoot at the real thing.

Provide lots of opportunities to finish

When it comes to boosting shots, increasing the number of goals you use is an excellent first step. In addition to this (or instead of), you could split your team into smaller group games. This maximises the amount of time each player spends on the ball.

Embed realism

To get good at football, your team need to experience what happens in a real game. Let’s look at some examples of how to do this.

1. Introduce overloads

When taking a shot on goal, a striker is often overloaded by defenders. So, when designing practices for older or more experienced players, get your team to attack in situations where they're outnumbered.

2. Locate your practice close to the goal

In Euro 2020, 82% of goals were scored from inside the 18-yard box – so staging your practices within this range makes a lot of sense. However, the size of your penalty area depends on the age of your players. This means it’s essential to adjust your session accordingly.

3. Consider the number of touches

If you watch professional football, you probably see a lot of first-time finishes. But this isn’t the case in the youth game. In fact, your players will probably need a few touches to get ready to score. However, using small-number activities (e.g. 3v3 or futsal) can increase the likelihood of a first-time finish.

4. Include other key skills

Scoring a goal is just one moment in a larger game. And, to get there, players need to employ a wide range of skills. Key examples include dribbling and passing – so try including them in your shooting sessions.

5. Don’t forget assists

Why not challenge your team to replicate any recent goals they’ve watched? It’s a great way to reproduce a realistic in-game scenario.

Think about your players' feelings

Taking a shot can be daunting – especially if everyone's watching. With this in mind, avoid lining players up to take their turn against the keeper. Instead, give small-sided 2v2 and 3v3 games a go.

If anyone in your team needs to rest or can't be involved in the practice, don't leave them twiddling their thumbs. Instead, make sure they feel involved. A simple fix is to ask players to observe a friend and provide feedback.

Manage your expectations

It's essential to recognise your team's physical and technical capabilities – and encourage them to shoot on their terms.

For example, young players are less likely to finish first time and they might need to be closer to the goal to score. To support this, try creating activities that reward shots from short distances.

When coaching older players, you're more likely to see first-time finishes. You're also more likely to spot players achieving an assist. As above, use this information to tailor your training to your team.