Kid yelling instructions

Vocab

Here’s a concise and practical list of the Top 10 soccer vocal instructions your players can use on the pitch:

Defensive Communication:

  1. “Man on!”
    • Tells a teammate they’re under pressure and should protect or quickly pass the ball.
  2. “Time!”
    • Lets a teammate know they’re not under immediate pressure and can calmly control the ball or look for options.
  3. “Drop!” / “Step!”
    • Commands teammates to move backward (drop) or forward (step) together as a defensive unit.
  4. “Inside!” / “Outside!”
    • Directs a teammate to force the attacker either toward the center (inside) or toward the sideline (outside).

Attacking Communication:

  1. “Through!”
    • Requests a pass into open space behind or between defenders.
  2. “Feet!”
    • Indicates a short pass directly to a teammate’s feet, usually when marked closely.
  3. “Overlap!”
    • Informs a teammate you’re running around (overlapping) them from behind, creating width or attacking options.

General Awareness:

  1. “Switch!”
    • Signals teammates to quickly move the ball to the opposite side of the field, away from pressure.
  2. “Turn!”
    • Lets a teammate receiving the ball know they have space behind them to turn and advance forward.
  3. “Keeper!”
    • Alerts teammates clearly and loudly that the goalkeeper is coming to claim the ball, avoiding confusion.

How to Teach Them:

  • Demonstrate: Explain each phrase clearly, then show practical examples in small-sided games or drills.
  • Reinforce: Regularly remind players during games or scrimmages to use these terms clearly and loudly.
  • Positive Praise: Reward players verbally when they communicate well, reinforcing good habits.

Using consistent soccer vocabulary helps build team confidence, coordination, and awareness on the pitch.