Coaching a 12U team requires a focused approach. Under the age of 12, athletes are getting a better grasp of the fundamentals and building foundational skills that could carry on to the pros. Although 12U players are more advanced than their younger counterparts, coaches need to continue to instill discipline while building up football IQ. This can start with a well-structured practice plan.
In this blog post, we’re breaking down a complete football practice plan specifically tailored to 12U athletes, targeting those who are interested in transitioning from the basics into . This guide will help you organize practices that are efficient and productive, but also engaging for young players.
Understanding the 12U group
Before we jump into creating any practice plan, we need to establish an understanding of who’s being coached. Like we established, players at the 12U level are in a transitional phase in terms of both development and football skill. They’re beginning to think more strategically about the game and engage in problem-solving. However, the 12U group still trends on the younger side, needing regular reinforcement of the fundamentals.
It’s important to note that players can vary greatly. Some kids will trend on the smaller side, while others might be going through growth-spurts and other developmental changes. Not only size, but skill-level too, can differ from player to player. To make sure things are fair and on a level playing field, you should consider pairing off kids based on size and skill level.
General practice structure
Based on USA Football’s recommendations, the ideal practice duration is between 90 minutes to 2 hours. Teams should practice no more than 4 times a week. A practice can follow this general structure:
- Warm-up and stretching
- Agility and Conditioning
- Position-based drills
- Offense
- Defense
- Special teams
- Group drills
- Live scrimmage
- Cool-down
Sample 90-Minute Practice Plan for 12U Football Teams
Here’s a detailed walkthrough of a sample session, complete with drills and coaching points.
Warm-up and stretching
Before getting into the nitty gritty of your practice, a warm-up and stretching session is great way to get the blood pumping and ready players for the drills ahead. Here are general some tips:
Lead with stretching first: Walking lunges, arm circles, and hip openers, etc. Going straight into practice without it leads to a higher risk of injury.
Example exercises:
- Jog a lap around the field
- High knees, butt kicks, side shuffles
- Walking lunges, arm circles, hip openers
- Quick feet
- for 10 seconds x 3
Agility and conditioning
Conditioning exercises prepare the players for the game itself, priming for more football specific moves on the field.
- Ladder drills: One foot in each square, two feet in each, icky shuffle
- Cone drills: 5-10-5 shuttle, zig-zag sprint cuts
- Sprint mechanics: 10-yard burst sprints, start stance emphasis
Position-based drills
In this section, we’ll split players up for more focused work. dedicate time toward drills that will hone offense, defense, and special-teams specific moves.
Quarterbacks
- Footwork ladder to dropback
- Short passing accuracy (targets or receivers)
- Throwing on the run (bootleg drill)
Running Backs
- Handoff mesh points
- Cone cut drills to simulate change of direction
- Ball security gauntlet (players try to strip the ball)
Wide Receivers
- Stance and first-step release
- Route tree practice (slants, outs, go routes)
- High-point catching over defenders
Linemen (OL/DL)
- Stance and explosion drills
- Punch and hand placement on pads
- Drive blocking and swim move reps
Team Install & Situational Play (20–25 minutes)
Now it’s time to bring the units together.
- Walk through one offensive and one defensive play
- Run a half-line drill: 7-on-7 or skeleton
- Set up situational plays: 3rd and long, red zone, goal line
Focus on alignment, assignment, and tempo. Teach players to adjust quickly to coach commands or audibles.
Controlled Scrimmage (15–20 minutes)
Let players apply what they’ve learned in a live setting.
- Divide into offense and defense (mix starters and backups)
- Run a 10-play series or time-based scrimmage
- Coaches stop play when teaching moments arise
This section improves decision-making, game speed recognition, and leadership. Encourage verbal communication across the field.
Cool Down & Team Talk (5–10 minutes)
Finish strong and set expectations for the next session.
- Static stretching: hamstrings, quads, calves, shoulders
- Breathing and light jogging
- Quick debrief: What went well? What needs work?
Use this time for leadership development too—ask a player to speak or lead a stretch.
Tips for Running a Successful 12U Football Practice
- Minimize idle time: Keep drills short and transitions fast. Long talks lose attention.
- Be consistent: Stick to your routine so players know what to expect.
- Use stations: Great for skill development and managing large rosters.
- Give every player reps: Rotate through positions when possible, especially early in the season.
- Praise effort: Recognize improvement just as much as performance.
- Hydrate frequently: Break every 20–25 minutes, especially in hot weather.
Conclusion
Coaching 12U football is about much more than just Xs and Os—you’re developing athletes, building leaders, and shaping character. A structured, well-paced practice plan helps ensure every minute on the field counts. By balancing drills with fun, discipline with encouragement, and fundamentals with game strategy, you’ll not only grow better football players—you’ll help young athletes fall in love with the game.
Looking to give your 12U football player extra attention outside of team practices? Athletes Untapped is a marketplace that connects families with private coaches. Browse football coaches near you to help your athlete sharpen skills, build confidence, and develop a deeper love for the game.
