Small sided games are important for childrens’ progress

Steven Poacher believes there is one piece of equipment which coaches should never ignore when training.

In his column this week, Poacher explains how, with this equipment, they can rapidly improve a player’s skills.

We all know what it is.

“Any coach now that takes an underage Gaelic football session with school or club cannot seriously consider doing anything without a ball.

“The majority of the session should also involve small-sided games. Small-sided games, or conditioned games, can be 3v3, 4v4, 5v5 or even 7v7 depending on numbers or space.

“We’ve got to remember children participating in sport or Gaelic games have generally a good level of fitness. They’re not mini adults, and any aerobic/fitness training should still be done through small-sided games.”

Read the full article in the current issue of Gaelic Life, or click here to buy the online edition and read the column right now