University Prep Soccer
Tactical Training
Principles / Pillars of Play (The Good Stuff!)
Tactical Training
Tactical understanding gives students of the game - a distinct edge in ability read the game and exploit their skills as player. Understanding tactics is paramount when speaking with high level coaches who may be looking for additions to their teams.
Additionally, using correct tactical terminology during an interview with a coach will greatly increases your ability to be taken seriously as a player.
Pillars of Play
Pillars of play refers to the four on-field situations and off-field situations that happen in Association Football or “Soccer”. The Five Pillars are 1. Off Field Pillars Such as Throw Ins - Goal Kicks - Free Kicks Etc. 2. In Possession Opposition Set 3. In Possession Opposition Unset 4. Non-Possession Opposition Set and 5 Non-Possession Opposition Unset. These are the Pillars that give the best players - and edge in play.
Attacking vs Defending Principles
Attacking and defending principles work together across every pillar of play. Study the diagram, then watch how those principles show up in live play - shape, pressure, support, and decision-making under both set and unset opposition.
Principles of Play
The Principles of play speak for themselves. As you mature as a player you need to be able to understand the principles and your specific responsibility to your team. The responsibility needs to be kept in mind as each Pillar of Play is being experienced on the Field. This understanding can greatly influence a decision of a coach - because player who understand them - have done much of the “Bread and Butter” learning and will require less coaching.
Information on this page was derived from universityprepsoccer.com’s ten year study into the college soccer recruitment process. If you can see a way to improve this page - or our site - contact us! We would love to hear from you.