Choose one play you want to teach and record its formation, assignments, and coaching notes. If you are drawing your first play, start by marking where each player lines up. The example below shows a real FootballArc print layout; the blank worksheet gives you space to work through your own play.
Read the example, then build your own
The four-play Print Builder example shows one way to fit diagrams on a page. Use consistent names and a readable diagram size; add your own protection, assignment, and teaching notes before using material with players.
Make the worksheet work for your team
Use the terminology your staff teaches
Choose consistent names for formations and plays. Define the position labels, route marks, and shorthand on the page so coaches and players use the same words when discussing an assignment.
Check the alignment first
Review where each player starts before explaining movement. Show the line of scrimmage clearly, then check the formation against the rules your team plays under.
Explain what each player does
Use diagrams to show the assignment and short notes to explain the teaching point. Include the responsibilities your scheme requires; a route diagram alone does not explain protection or every response to a defensive look.
Choose the plays for the next session
Organize plays by side of the ball and formation, then select the ones you want to teach. Keep variations clearly named. In FootballArc, duplicating a saved play gives you a separate copy to edit while preserving the original.
Further reading: USA Football on player-friendly terminology. Our worksheet and product example are original FootballArc materials.
Common questions
Is this a complete offensive system?
No. It is an example of a printed page and a worksheet for planning a play. Review and complete the alignment, protection, assignments, and teaching notes for the football you coach.
What should I put beside each diagram?
Use a consistent play name, formation, teaching objective, and any assignment details that the diagram does not communicate on its own.
Does the free trial include PDF printing?
The downloadable example on this page is free. Printing your own work inside FootballArc requires an eligible paid plan and is not included in the seven-day trial.
