1. Dribbling Relay
Objective: Improve ball control while dribbling.
Setup:
• Place cones in a straight line, 5 yards apart.
• Players take turns dribbling through the cones and back.
Instructions:
• Focus on using small, controlled touches with both feet.
• Encourage players to keep their heads up while dribbling.
2. Passing Pairs
Objective: Teach accurate passing and receiving.
Setup:
• Pair up players, standing 5-10 yards apart.
• Use one ball per pair.
Instructions:
• Pass the ball back and forth using the inside of the foot.
• Emphasize proper technique: planting the opposite foot next to the ball, aiming with the inside of the foot, and following through.
• Gradually increase the distance between pairs.
3. Shooting at Goal
Objective: Practice shooting accuracy and power.
Setup:
• Set up a goal or use cones to mark a goal area.
• Players line up 10 yards away with a ball.
Instructions:
• Each player takes turns shooting into the goal.
• Encourage aiming for corners of the goal rather than the center.
• Highlight the importance of striking the ball with the laces.
4. Keep the Ball
Objective: Improve close control and awareness.
Setup:
• Create a small square (10x10 yards).
• Each player has a ball.
Instructions:
• Players dribble within the square while keeping control.
• Introduce challenges like dribbling with weaker feet or changing direction quickly.
5. 1v1 Attack and Defend
Objective: Build confidence in attacking and defending.
Setup:
• Create a small field with one goal.
• One player is the attacker, and the other is the defender.
Instructions:
• The attacker tries to score, while the defender prevents them.
• Rotate roles after each turn.
6. Small-Sided Game
Objective: Apply skills in a game setting.
Setup:
• Divide players into two teams.
• Use small goals or cone markers.
Instructions:
• Play 3v3 or 4v4 on a small field.
• Focus on teamwork, passing, and spacing.
• Keep the game light and fun!
These drills are simple yet effective, making them perfect for beginners.
Lesson 11: Advanced Teamwork and Game Awareness
Objective: Build advanced teamwork, communication, and tactical game awareness.
Warm-Up (5 minutes):
• Dynamic Passing Circle:
• Players stand in a circle with one ball.
• Pass the ball randomly but call out the recipient’s name before passing.
• Introduce a second ball to increase difficulty.
Drill 1: Overlapping Runs
Objective: Teach players how to create space and support their teammates with overlapping runs.
Setup:
• Divide players into groups of three.
• Set up a cone “starting zone” and a “goal zone” 20 yards apart.
Instructions:
1. Player A passes to Player B, who dribbles forward.
2. Player A makes an overlapping run around Player B.
3. Player B passes the ball to Player A, who crosses or shoots.
4. Rotate roles so everyone practices running, passing, and shooting.
Focus Points:
• Timing of the run.
• Communication between players.
Drill 2: Defensive Shape in a Small Group
Objective: Improve defensive positioning and teamwork in small groups.
Setup:
• Create a 15x15 yard grid.
• 3 attackers vs. 2 defenders.
Instructions:
• The attackers pass the ball while the defenders stay compact, moving as a unit to cut off passing lanes.
• Rotate roles every 2 minutes.
Focus Points:
• Communication between defenders.
• Staying organized and not chasing the ball.
Drill 3: Switching Play Under Pressure
Objective: Practice switching the ball to the opposite side to open up space.
Setup:
• Divide the field into three zones.
• Assign players to each zone with one neutral player who can move freely.
Instructions:
• Teams must move the ball across all zones before attacking the goal.
• Encourage long passes and quick decision-making.
Focus Points:
• Awareness of space.
• Speed and accuracy of passes.
Scrimmage with Tactical Focus
Objective: Apply advanced teamwork and game awareness in a match setting.
Setup:
• Divide players into two balanced teams.
Instructions:
• Assign specific goals for the scrimmage, such as:
• Focus on overlapping runs.
• Emphasize switching play.
• Defend as a compact unit.
Cool-Down (5 minutes):
• Light jogging around the field.
• Stretch all major muscle groups while discussing key takeaways from the lesson.