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📋 Session Plan

Possession sessions

Session plans built around keeping and using the ball — build-up play, attacking shape, and transition from possession. Across 5v5 to 11v11.

Sessions15Formats5v5, 7v7, 9v9, 11v11FocusQuality, decision-making, and enjoyment
ABCDEPossession sessions — Quality, decision-making, and enjoyment

⏱Session timeline

◆What you'll need from yourself

Clear demonstrations and high energy. Keep the session moving with minimal queuing, and reinforce one or two key coaching points rather than overloading players with information.

!Common problems

Players standing in queues (set up enough stations to keep everyone active) and the session running too long on one activity (keep blocks tight and move on while engagement is high).

?Frequently asked questions

What age groups does Possession sessions cover?
These sessions span every format from 5v5, 7v7, 9v9, 11v11, covering the full range of grassroots age groups through to adult football — pick the format your squad plays to find the right one.
How do I choose the right session for my squad?
Start with the format your team plays — 5v5, 7v7, 9v9 or 11v11 — and use the \"Session blocks\" grid above, which groups every possession session by format so you can go straight to the right age band.
Is this free to use on SimpleDrills?
Yes — all coaching content on SimpleDrills, including this page, is free to view, print, and use with your team.
What does Possession sessions focus on?
Session plans built around keeping and using the ball — build-up play, attacking shape, and transition from possession. Across 5v5 to 11v11.

Recommended kit

Training Footballs (4-pack)

Top pick

Keep reps high in quick-rotation possession drills.

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Disc Cones (50-pack)

Define zones and neutral areas fast.

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Training Bibs (10-pack)

Split groups cleanly for rondos and possession games.

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Coaches tip: Post-session recovery nutrition matters as much as the drills themselves — MaxiNutrition's recovery range is built for exactly this.

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Building conditioning between sessions at home? DeerRun UK's home treadmills make it easy to keep up cardio work off the pitch.