Players need a variety of opportunities to apply skills, either recently acquired or existing, if they are to learn thoroughly. Therefore if players are to apply techniques and skills effectively, they should be provided with an environment which is stimulating, fun and motivational.

The training environment and the enthusiasm of the coach should make the process of learning new techniques and skills so exciting that the players instantly recognize the need to master the technique or skill so they can fully participate in the small sided game.

Here is a checklist for session organization

• Is it well organized with structured resources laid out? E.g. cones, balls, bibs, hurdles, goals, speed ladders etc
• Do you have a system which the players know how to operate? E.g. warm up, technique drill, skill development, small sided game, cool down?
• Do you have a session plan that incorporates fun games, �cops and robbers�, �I�m a great footballer get me out of here!�, �Football marbles�?
• Do you possess a range of supplementary tasks and activities to allow for progression?
• Is there effective use of space?
• Are the players stimulated by challenges?
• Is the session too difficult to grasp or beyond their capability?
• Do you create realistic conditions for players to practice?
• Are you clear in your communication?
• When dividing the squad into teams are they fair?
• What is the length of session - too long and concentration will fall
• How often do you interrupt and give coaching information

All of these questions will provide you with information that you can use to ensure that your sessions always hit the spot!