Week 9 - Physical Duels

Module: Master The Opponent: 7-12 Years Old Classroom: Use The 360TFT Game Model Original Location: https://www.skool.com/coachingacademy/classroom/62d426ee

Session Focus

Physical Duels

Developing the physical and mental aspects of winning individual battles. This week focuses on strength in challenges, balance, body positioning, and the competitive mentality required to dominate physical confrontations. Players learn to use their body legally and effectively.

Building physical confidence and technique in contact situations.

Structure & Flow of Session

1. Ball Mastery Warm-Up (10 mins)

Shielding Practice

Partners practice shielding the ball using correct body position. Progress from passive to active pressure.

• Focus on low centre of gravity
• Arm positioning for balance
• Body between opponent and ball

Coach Prompts:

• “Where is your centre of gravity?”
• “How does your arm help you balance?”
• “Are you protecting the ball with your body?”

2. Contextual Game Scenario (15 mins)

Physical 1v1 Duels

Individual battles with controlled contact. Focus on winning the ball legally and staying strong.

• 50/50 challenges
• Aerial duels (headed)
• Shoulder-to-shoulder running

Coach Prompts:

• “Did you get your body in front?”
• “Were you strong at the point of contact?”
• “How did you use your arms legally?”

3. Small Sided Game (15 mins)

Battle Game

SSG designed to encourage physical duels - tight spaces, contested balls, and battle situations.

• Smaller pitch = more duels
• Serve balls in contested positions
• Celebrate fair, winning battles

Coach Prompts:

• “Are you being strong enough?”
• “Can you shield and find a teammate?”
• “Did you want it more than your opponent?”

4. Match-Related Play (15-20 mins)

4v4 Free Play

Open game where physical duels occur naturally. Coach observes and encourages competitive spirit.

• No specific constraints
• Praise fair, competitive play
• Note improvements in physical battles

Key Coaching Points

Physical Duels:

• Low centre of gravity
• Get your body in front
• Be first to the ball mentally
• Use arms for balance (not pushing)
• Stay on your feet when possible
• Be strong but legal

Types of Duels:

• 50/50 ground battles
• Shielding and holding
• Aerial challenges
• Shoulder-to-shoulder
• Screening and blocking

Why This Structure Works

• Technical preparation in warm-up
• High-repetition duels in safe environment
• Applied physicality in SSG
• Natural competition in match play

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