[FIRST NAME GOES HERE],
The first session back after a holiday break always carries a unique energy. There is often a mix of excitement to see friends, sluggishness from too much festivities, and perhaps a bit of “rust” when it comes to the first touch.
As coaches, the temptation can be to hit the ground running immediately, to run the “Christmas pudding” off them with fitness drills or dive straight back into complex tactical work to make up for lost time.
However, I believe the most important objective in that first session back is simply to reconnect.
If we treat the return to training as an opportunity to rebuild the social environment and reignite the love for the ball, we set the platform for the rest of the season. Players need to feel they belong before they can perform.
If we create an environment full of fun, energy, and friendship from minute one, we help them transition back into the rhythm of the season with a positive mindset, rather than viewing training as a chore or a punishment for their time off.
Three Things to Consider
1 – Connection Before Correction
Before you start fixing technique or demanding high tactical standards, spend time connecting. Ask the players about their holidays, their gifts, or their time away. Building relationships and showing you care about them as people is crucial to effective coaching.
2 – Play, Don’t Drill
Avoid lines and static drills. The players have likely been inactive. The best way to get them moving and engaged is through the game itself. Use small-sided games to ensure high ball-rolling time and maximum enjoyment. This naturally reintegrates their fitness without it feeling like a “beasting.”
3 – Manage Expectations
Be patient. We know that learning is non-linear and development is messy. Expect heavy touches and some poor decisions in the first week back. Instead of frustration, bring energy, enthusiasm, and laughter to the session to help them shake off the cobwebs.
One thing to try this week
The “Arrival Tournament.”
Instead of a standard warm-up, set up two or three small pitches with goals before the players arrive. As soon as the first two players show up, they play 1v1. As more arrive, it becomes 2v2, then 3v3.
Allow them to pick “famous club” identities for their teams (e.g., Real Madrid vs. Barcelona) to spark immediate competition and fun. This ensures the focus is on playing the moment they step onto the grass.
One Critical Resource on the Topic
Check out the free PDP Coaching Fundamentals eBook, specifically the chapter on “The Fun Factor.” This outlines why fun is a non-negotiable ingredient in youth development and how to create sessions players love
And don’t forget your free Coach Planner. Download it today and start getting organized!
