Week 1: Creating and Finding the Free Player

Module: Master The Game: 12-18 Years Old Classroom: Use The 360TFT Game Model Phase: In Possession

Session Focus

Creating and Finding the Free Player

This session focuses on helping players identify and exploit the free player in possession situations. Players learn to scan, recognise space, and make decisions that unlock defensive structures.

Structure & Flow of Session

In Possession Focus

These are the 4 In Possession principles which transfer to age 12+:

1. Positioning - Build Up Play, Building The Attack
2. Ball Retention - Maintaining Possession, Circulation
3. Breaking Lines - Creating The Attack, Movement Between Lines
4. Creating & Finishing Opportunities - Final 3rd, Finishing The Attack

Session Components

1. Ball Reps - Warm Up

Technical warm-up focusing on ball mastery and preparation for the main session theme.

2. Ball Reps - Main Activity

Progressive ball work building towards the session’s tactical focus.

3. Breaking Lines with Third Man Support

Practice designed to develop players’ ability to use third-man combinations to break through defensive lines and find the free player.

4. End Zone Playmakers

Small-sided game with end zones focusing on finding and playing to free players in advanced positions.

5. Combinations and Transitions

Game-related practice connecting combination play with transitional moments.

Coaching Points

• Scan before receiving to identify the free player
• Body position open to see maximum options
• Weight and timing of pass to free player
• Movement off the ball to create and exploit space
• Decision-making speed in recognising the free player

This content is part of the 360TFT Football Coaching Academy - Use The 360TFT Game Model

Note: Full session diagrams and detailed coaching points are available in the Football Coaching Academy classroom.