Posts by Football NSW

Set pieces—such as corners, free kicks, and throw-ins—offer an excellent opportunity for the opposition to score. Defending set pieces effectively requires organization, discipline, and clear communication. To prevent your team from conceding during these critical moments, here are five key tips to improve your defending of set pieces. Organize a Clear Defensive Structure Before a…

Football NSW has named Highlands Soccer Association’s Bundanoon Rebels as its Club Changer Club of the Month for June. Club Changer is Football Australia’s Club Development Program which aims to protect and enhance clubs to make them stronger and more resilient while planning for long-term viability and success. Highlands Soccer Association Secretary Sarah Packer was…

The 4-2-3-1 formation is one of the most popular and effective tactical setups in modern football. Known for its balance between defence and attack, it offers structure and flexibility, making it suitable for a wide range of teams. In this article, we’ll break down how to play a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on the key roles…

As a football coach, providing equal playing time for all players is essential for team morale, development, and fairness. While this can be a challenge, especially in competitive environments, it’s possible to maintain balance and give every player the opportunity to grow. Here are five key tips to help ensure equal playing time for your…

In football, defending when you’re outnumbered is a daunting but common situation that requires composure, discipline, and a solid understanding of defensive principles. Whether it’s due to a counterattack, an aggressive opposition, or a lack of balance, facing more attackers than defenders can easily put the team under pressure. However, with the right approach, defending…

As a football coach, one of the most effective ways to teach new skills and concepts is through demonstrations. Watching a technique performed correctly allows players to visualize how the movement should be executed, making it easier for them to replicate it. Demonstrations not only help clarify instructions but also engage players more actively in…

Football NSW will be hosting a coaches event at Valentine Sports Park as part of 2025 Female Football Week. Current and aspiring coaches are invited to observe a Future Sapphires Program training session, followed by a Q&A with Coach Anissa Tann.  The session topic will be “Swarm and Protect”, with a  focus on immediate pressure…

A half-time team talk is a critical moment in any match. It’s an opportunity for coaches to motivate, adjust tactics, and inspire their players to finish strong. The way you approach this time can make a huge difference in how your team responds in the second half. Here are some key tips for delivering a…

Managing players’ behaviour at football training is essential for any coach to create a positive and productive environment. As a coach, you’re not just teaching skills and tactics, but also setting the tone for discipline, respect, and teamwork. Here are five key tips to help you manage your players’ behaviour and maintain a focused, respectful…

In modern football, the use of a back three is becoming increasingly popular, offering both defensive stability and attacking flexibility. This formation allows teams to maintain a solid defensive base while providing width and opportunities for offensive support. As a coach, implementing a back three requires careful planning and understanding of its tactical principles. Here’s…

As a head coach, managing your coaching staff is just as critical as coaching the players. A well-organized, cohesive staff can elevate a team’s performance, ensure smooth operations, and foster a positive environment for both players and coaches. Effective management of your staff involves clear communication, trust, delegation, and consistent feedback. Here are key strategies…