Unlocking Soccer IQ: The Role of Questions in Player Development
In soccer, asking open-ended, guided discovery questions spark thought, discovery, and understanding without handing them the answers.
In soccer, asking open-ended, guided discovery questions spark thought, discovery, and understanding without handing them the answers.
Kids learn quickly through guided questions because it engages them in active thinking, helping them make connections, solve problems, and reflect on their decisions. Instead of being told what to do, they discover solutions on their own, which builds confidence, deepens understanding, and strengthens memory. This approach taps into their natural curiosity, encourages ownership of learning, and develops critical thinking and decision-making skills that transfer to real game situations. Guided discovery also makes learning more meaningful and fun, leading to faster growth and long-term development.
Here are a few open-ended, guided discovery questions to spark thought and understanding without handing them the answers:
Questions for Developing Awareness and Game Understanding
General Game Awareness
“Where is the space right now?”
“What can you do if there’s no space in front of you?”
“Where do you see most of the other team’s players?”
“Are you closer to our goal or their goal?”
Decision-Making with the Ball
“What could you do if someone is trying to take the ball from you?”
“How can you keep the ball if there’s pressure?”
“Is it better to dribble or pass here? Why?”
“What do you see in front of you?”
Off-the-Ball Movement
“Where can you go to help your teammate?”
“What can you do if you don’t have the ball?”
“If you stand still, are you easy or hard to find?”
“How can you make it easier for your teammate to pass to you?”
Defensive Awareness
“Who should you stay close to when we lose the ball?”
“How can we get the ball back quicker?”
“Where should your body face when defending?”
“How can you make it harder for them to go forward?”
Transition Moments
“What’s the first thing you do when we lose the ball?”
“What do you do right after we win it?”
“How fast can we switch from defending to attacking?”
Visual Scanning
“What do you see around you before you get the ball?”
“Why is it good to look before you get the ball?”
“Did you notice anyone open before the ball came to you?”
Coaching Tip:
Use phrases like “I noticed…”, “What did you see?”, or “What happened when…” to prompt reflection.
Reinforce good answers with praise: “Great thinking!”, “You saw that space – well done!”
Let players fail safely so they can connect the question with real outcomes.
Soccer Drill Titled: Unlocking Soccer IQ: The Role of Questions in Player Development
Tagged:
- SOCCER GUIDED QUESTIONS
- SOCCER OPEN-ENDED QUESTIONS
- SOCCER IQ
Published by: Chris Johnson