Anderson Gongora, coach of the under-16 FC Paulínia

Founded in 2004, Paulinia FC is a club from the city of Paulinia, in the state of Sao Paulo. The club has reached the top level of competitions in Brazil. However, the club’s main focus is to provide tools for the players rather than reach the top of the Brazilian game.

The game in the 21st Century

Youth development seems to have rocketed into the 21st century. Clubs are increasingly using the sciences and devising more imaginative ways to unlock the ‘formula’ which will give them the edge over other clubs. Players are being recruited and coveted much younger than ever before, a form of protectionism.

Set-plays: Understanding the roles and responsibilities

Set Pieces are an important element in any team's ability to score from the opportunities provided by corner kicks and free kicks. A large portion of goals in professional matches are scored from set plays. However, many teams do not devote the necessary time and practice in training to improve their set-plays.

Warm up with through pass in threesomes

Category: Passing
Focus: Improve kicking
Phase: Warm up
Number of Players: 3

Saving balls at high speed

Category: Shot/Headers
Focus: Improve saving balls at high speed
Phase: Learning phase
Number of Players: 2

9v5 with goals

Category: Field Positioning
Focus: Improve pressuring the side of the ball
Phase: Learning phase
Number of Players: 15