Available in the Online Resource Library are two articles by Giovanni Pacini, NSCAA state techical coordinator and Academy Staff member.

In "Laying Out a Style of Play in Attack," Pacini discusses general attacking principles and select terminology. He notes that "it is vital that when players...have posession of the ball, they are clear on what the mode of attack should be."

Some of the points Pacini touches on includes:

• Displaying a style that encourages fast and efficient movement of the ball to unbalance defenses
• Attackers whose roles includes support to allow continued ball movement
• Making sure players know what options are available before they receive the ball

In "Laying out a General Style of Defense for your Team," Pacini discusses how to prepare your team for defense (specifically a zone defense), starting out with general defending principles. He also mentions the roles of the first, second and third defenders, while also presenting a few defensive terms.

Pacini uses the simple diagram below to illustrate the zones a defender is responsible to cover.

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"Laying out a General Style of Defense for your Team"

The number of articles available in the Online Resource Library grows daily, covering a variety of topics from attacking and defending, to nutrition and leadership.

The Online Resource Library is just one of the many benefits that accompany an NSCAA membership. From online resources and coaching education courses to general liability insurance and networking opportunities, the NSCAA is your one-stop association that provides all you need for your coaching activities.

Giovanni Pacini is the NSCAA Massachusetts and New Hampshire State Technical Coordinator, Chairman of the NSCAA Technical Committee, and member of both the NSCAA National and National Goalkeeper Academy Staffs. He is also the head men’s soccer coach at Lasell College and directs Make The Save Goalkeeper Training.

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Integrating the Goalkeeper in a Team Training Session

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