CYD Coach Training Guide
P1
P2
P3
P4
Grassroots
Ages 3–560-minute sessions · Barcelona (La Masia) methodology
Philosophy
Football at this age is about joy and exploration. Every child has a ball, every activity is a game, and the coach's role is to be the most fun person on the field. La Masia's foundational principle: the ball must become a best friend before it becomes a tool.
Barcelona Focus
Ball familiarity, joy of movement, individual exploration. No formations, no positions — just play.
Key Concepts
- Every player has a ball at all times — no lines, no waiting
- Activity changes every 5–7 minutes (short attention spans)
- Coach demonstrates, children mimic — no long explanations
- Celebrate effort and participation, never the outcome
- Games-based learning only — no formal drills
- Basic locomotion: running, jumping, turning with the ball
Season Goals
- 1.Develop a natural comfort with the ball at their feet
- 2.Build gross motor skills through varied movement
- 3.Learn to stop, start, and change direction with the ball
- 4.Experience the joy of football and wanting to come back