This phase of football is all about getting the footballing basics right as well as understanding what being part of a Limehouse Laces team means.

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Footballing basics -

Positioning:  Be aware of the three thirds of the pitch (defensive third, middle third, attacking third). Be aware of basic positions on the football pitch, what their roles are and where they play.

Formation:   Be aware of at least two formations appropriate for seven a side football.

Set Plays:   Have established set plays for goal kicks, kick offs, corners and free kicks. Know how to take throw- ins correctly and understand the rules of the game.

Principles of Play:  Understand the attacking and defending principles of play. (Attacking - Movement, Support, Creativity, penetration, create space.  Defending - Press, delay, compactness, cover & balance, control & restraint )

Attacking Skills: Working on good first touch to control the ball.  Learning how to shield the ball and stay on your feet.  Look to be creative and not be afraid of taking risks and trying new things.  Understand how each position has a part to play in the game and the importance of staying in position.  Use this understanding to connect and combine with other players. 

Defending skills:  Positive,  enthusiastic and intelligent defending.  Understanding that when out of possession every player is a defender.  Understanding that defending does not just mean tackling and how your defensive role will be determined by lots of different factors.  Being brave and not being afraid to challenge other players for the ball. 

Transition skills:React quickly and positively when the ball is won or lost and have a range of individual options and actions.  

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Social and psychological basics -

Fun and Friendship

Respect and resilience. Learning how to deal with, defeat, frustration and disappointment.  Understanding the importance of responsibility and discipline.  Building self-confidence and self-esteem.  Experiencing how helping others helps ourselves.