Using well-rehearsed drills is a great way to achieve this goal and one I have often used myself.

To help you out, I have put together my favorite warm-up drills in this article to make your job easier.

The best warm-up drills for soccer are:

1. Passing Pairs
2. Zigzag Dribbling
3. Two Touch Passing
4. Quick Feet Ladder
5. High Knees 
6. Circle Keep Away
7. One Touch Keep Away
8. Side Shuffles 

An extensive warm-up routine is known to warm up the players’ muscles, dramatically decreasing the likelihood of severe injury during the game.

While individuals and teams can utilize countless soccer warm-up drills, the list above details eight of the most applicable options for physical performance, enhanced mental clarity, and enabling the team to perform at their highest level.

At the same time, they should enhance coordination, agility, teamwork, performance, and communication.

So, let me take you through each of them now!

1. Passing Pairs

The soccer drill known as passing pairs is among the most prevalent and beneficial warm-up drills you will find.

Usually, players are required to pass the ball back and forth among each other after being broken up into pre-determined pairs.

While the drill is incredibly beneficial in various ways, it quickly enhances communication, precision, and passing accuracy under pressure.

Benefits of this Drill

This drill will benefit passing accuracy, technique, and precision: 

• Enhance the passing technique of soccer players globally, although the impact is more pronounced among beginner or non-professional players. 
• Encourages constant high-level communication between all the soccer team’s players, indirectly increasing the likelihood of outperforming their opponents and leaving with a victory. 
• The distinct way the drill is structured and implemented will ensure all involved players are in direct sync with one another, which is usually effortlessly transferred into competitive in-game scenarios. 

Walk-Through

Step 1: Instruct the squad to separate into pairs or groups of their choosing. 

Step 2: The pairs need to be a minimum of ten yards apart from each other before the highly influential warm-up passing drill can be initiated. 

Step 3: Traditionally, the ball’s velocity traveling between the pairs is low. Once both players have their eyes in and muscles warmed up, insist that the pace be increased before alternative variations such as outside foot passes, inside foot passes, and insteps are implemented. 

Step 4: It is vital to consistently encourage appropriate communication between each other while simultaneously maintaining a sufficiently steady passing rhythm. 

Step 5: Best practice dictates rotating pairs every few minutes; however, the final decision to alternate between pairs remains your sole discretion. 

2. Zigzag Dribbling

The zigzag dribbling warm-up routine requires players to dribble the ball through a specific pattern of cones, drastically enhancing their close ball control, general dribbling skills, and rapid directional changes.

Benefits of this Drill

This drill will benefit players’ close ball control, dribbling skills, and directional changes:

• Improve overall dribbling accuracy, which is also influential during warm-up routines before kickoff to highly competitive soccer games.
• Enhances and develops player coordination and agility, allowing the team to start the competitive match on a high note and with unmatched intensity, focus, and direction.
• Increase ability to adapt and successfully overcome challenging in-game scenarios.

Walk-Through

Step 1: Create an appropriate space for the zigzag warm-up drill by placing a line or series of cones in a distinctly zigzagging shape. The cones should be positioned five feet apart from one another.

Step 2: Instruct the players on the soccer team to dribble the ball to the last cone without touching or disturbing any of them.

Step 3: Initially, players should utilize their preferred foot steadily, increasing the intensity every few minutes until a realistic in-game scenario is achieved from the highly beneficial soccer warm-up drill.

Step 4: It is vital to consistently emphasize a high level of close ball control and rapid or unexpected direction changes, as this will sufficiently prepare them for the upcoming competitive soccer game.

Step 5: While not being a prerequisite, many respected coaches globally consider repeating the drill several times throughout a warm-up routine to allow for the best possible team outcomes.

3. Two Touch Passing

Two-touch passing is among the most beneficial, practical, and technically advanced warm-up drills currently utilized by soccer teams of any skill level.

This drill requires players to pass the ball among each other while avoiding defenders introduced to intercept the ball by ensuring they use two or fewer touches for the entire procedure.

In addition, the high-intensity soccer warm-up drill will ensure the team’s mental state is optimal, allowing them to perform at their highest level from the instant the referee initiates the kickoff.

Benefits of this Drill

This drill will benefit passing accuracy and hand-eye coordination:

• Improves overall passing accuracy and stimulates optimal hand-eye coordination levels before they step onto the pitch to simulate their skills in highly competitive soccer matches.
• Enhances the all-important first touch control, allowing them to step onto the pitch and perform to the best of their abilities without worrying about getting their eye in.
• Automatically stimulates rapid decision-making processes, enabling players of any skill level to make optimal decisions during intense moments during competitive soccer games.

Walk-Through

Step 1: Before initiating the pre-game drill, you must divide the squad into pairs of similar skills or experience.

Step 2:  Construct a distinct line of appropriate markers or cones while ensuring they remain at least 15 yards between each other.

Step 3: Instruct team players already separated into their various pairs to pass the ball between each other accurately without using more than two distinct touches.

Step 4: It is critical to clarify that the first touch should remain exclusively reserved for controlling the ball. In contrast, the second touch is utilized for accurate passing.

Step 5: In this soccer drill, far more than most, you must consistently remind players to focus on accuracy and control while passing the ball between one another.

Step 6: Keep things interesting, stimulating, and beneficial by frequently switching players and their positions, ensuring each player’s overall skill set improves.

4. Quick Feet Ladder

The internationally recognized soccer drill known as the quick feet ladder requires players to maneuver their feet as fast as possible through a grid-like ladder demarcated by specific cones or several accurately drawn chalk lines.

While the quick feet ladder drill is mainly incorporated in practice sessions, it has developed into a prominent warm-up drill due to the ever-increasing intensity and competitiveness in beginner, professional, and international soccer games.

Despite being revered among the world’s elite teams, quick or rapid transition passing drills are commonly overlooked or underrated by non-professional team coaches.

Benefits of this Drill

This drill will benefit the player’s foot speed, agility, and overall ball control:

• Increases a player’s foot speed, control, and overall agility, allowing them to perform at their highest level when kickoff is initiated.
• Improves unconscious body movements and control while ensuring their balance remains optimal at crucial times during the soccer game.
• It is considered by many to be the most effective and realistic warm-up peroration regarding the consistently rapid movements required of players during competitive soccer matches.

Walk-Through

Step 1: Place or create a grid-like ladder on the training pitch using an appropriate cone setup or chalk outlines.

Step 2: Instruct players to create a single filed line behind one end of the ladder.

Step 3: When you are satisfied with the players’ setup, blow the whistle, indicating they must make their way through the grid-like ladder while ensuring they move their feet in and out of each box as quickly as possible.

Step 4: Consistent speed and foot positioning accuracy must be emphasized.

Step 5: Once a player has progressed through the drill, they must join the end of the line and repeat the drill until they are satisfied.

5. High Knees 

The soccer warm-up drill known as high knees requires team players to maneuver dynamically across the field in a rapidly paced jog while maintaining a high knee position.

While the drill is challenging and intense, it is among the most beneficial to teams aiming to compete to the best of their abilities.

Benefits of this Drill

This drill will ensure players are match-ready:

• Increases body temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate of players, appropriately preparing players’ physicality to compete at their highest level from the moment the first whistle is sounded.
• Enhances and stimulates overall mobility and hip flexibility, lowering the likelihood of injury while ensuring the player can effectively compete from the game’s first minute.
• Physically prepares and stimulates players for the countless highly physical and explosive movements they will be exposed to during the upcoming competitive soccer game.

Walk-Through

Step 1: Instruct players to group and stand still in a specific area of the pitch.

Step 2: When players have complied with your instructions, blow the whistle, indicating they must start jogging in the same direction while emphasizing an exaggerated knee height.

Step 3: Consistently emphasize knee height and rapid leg movement.

Step 4: Ensure players continue their drill until you are satisfied with their warm-up progress.

6. Circle Keep Away

The incredibly efficient and beneficial soccer drill known as circle keep-away is a warm-up drill where players form a circle and pass the ball to teammates.

Maintaining effective ball control, composure, and high-quality decisions under pressure is important while keeping it away from defenders in the center.

This drill enhances passing, receiving, and team coordination.

Benefits of this Drill

This drill will enhance ball control, accuracy, and speed of passes:

• Enhances a pass’s accuracy, control, and speed when the player faces severe opposition during crucial, influential, and decisive moments of the game.
• Promotes positive, beneficial, and responsive ball control between teammates.
• Indirectly promotes and encourages effective communication and teamwork in beginner, professional, and elite soccer teams.

Walk-Through

Step 1: It is important to initially instruct your players to create a circle amongst themselves, placing two additional players, as defenders, in the center of the circle.

Step 2: Upon your instruction, players must pass the ball amongst themselves while the two defenders attempt to intercept the passes.

Step 3: If one of the defenders manages to intercept the ball, they will replace the player responsible for the intercepted pass.

Step 4: While this remains a favored drill among most international soccer players, it is vital to consistently emphasize the importance of passing accuracy, precision, and speed.

Step 5: Rorate players when appropriate and periodically, allowing each player to become accustomed to various positions and ball movements.

7. One Touch Keep Away

The soccer drill known as one touch keep away is among the most prevalent due to the significant benefit it induces upon players attempting to warm up for important and highly competitive games.

It is known that this drill necessitates that players pass the ball among each other without allowing it to be intercepted by pre-determined defenders.

By implementing this drill, players can substantially increase their playing abilities and skill levels during the game.

Benefits of this Drill

This skill will benefit passing accuracy, precision, and close control:

• Develops unmatched passing accuracy and precision, crucial during warm-up routines before fiercely competitive games officially commence.
• Improves overall ball control, allowing players of any skill level to pass the ball to their teammates to the best of their abilities, increasing the likelihood the soccer team experiences a positive outcome.
• Promotes rapid and effective ball movement among teammates while ensuring their quick-thinking abilities remain optimal during the most pressurized moments during the upcoming soccer game.

Walk-Through

Step 1: Instruct players to form a circle amongst themselves.

Step 2: Upon your instruction, blow the whistle, indicating players must pass the ball between themselves while ensuring they only touch it once throughout the process.

Step 3: It is critical to consistently emphasize and encourage precision, accuracy, and speed throughout the drill’s occurrence.

Step 4: While players focus on the passing drill’s physical and technical aspects, encourage them to scan the field of play, allowing them to make better decisions during stressful moments of a competitive game.

Step 5: To spice things up, add defenders to the circle’s center or change the playing direction at unexpected intervals, keeping players on their toes.

8. Side Shuffles 

The famous side shuffle soccer drill requires players to maneuver over a specific area of the training field while ensuring their movements and body position remain sideways throughout.

Despite being less popular among beginner teams, warming up the body by implementing a thorough side shuffle routine has become unavoidable among professional teams due to the incredible range of in-game benefits, leading to its international prevalence dramatically increasing yearly. 

However, the passing drill known as passing lanes has become increasingly prevalent among the world’s best teams over the past five years, enabling them to find unexpected gaps, spaces, and angles during intensely competitive game scenarios.

Benefits of this Drill

This drill will benefit lateral movement and in-game agility:

• Stimulates rapid lateral movement, among the most influential factors experienced during closely fought soccer matches. Often, the diffidence in lateral alertness, accuracy, and speed is the direct result of a player appropriately utilizing the side shuffle drill during warm-up sessions before big games throughout the year.
• Strengthening, stimulating, and loosening up the all-important leg muscles, with the tiny differences noticeable during different soccer teams’ warm-up drill routines, frequently making a noteworthy and game-changing impact during crucial moments.
• Enhances players’ overall body and ball control while promoting unmatched in-game agility.

Walk-Through

Step 1: Instruct players to initiate the drill at one specifically demarcated playing field area.

Step 2: Upon your instruction, players must shuffle, in a completely sideways manner, to the opposite side of the playing area.

Step 3: It is vital to ensure players maintain an appropriately low stance while ensuring consistently rapid movements across the outlined area.

Step 4: Players must repeat the drill in opposite directions of the field until they are satisfied with their progress and performance.

Conclusion

While numerous and applicable soccer warm-up drills exist, the eight detailed, explored, and discussed in this article are undoubtedly the most beneficial to most teams globally.

It is important to remember that soccer warm-up drills should be team-specific, meaning you can adjust and alter them slightly to best suit your team’s specific requirements.

For more soccer drills, check out this list I put together here.

Increasing the difficulty they face during practice sessions prepares the youngsters to compete at a higher level and continue their development.

Coaching ten-year-olds is no easy task; it takes a lot of patience and planning to keep them engaged while they prepare to become the next Messi.

In my experience, I have found that the soccer drills I’ve chosen here are ideal for improving a 10-year-old’s fitness, focus, and agility.

The Best U10 Soccer Drills:

1. Guard The Castle
2. Team Reaction Dribbling Drill
3. World Cup Soccer Drill
4. Monkey In The Middle
5. Knock Out
6. Coach’s Revenge
7. Tic-Tac-Toe Sprints
8. Soccer Tennis

As a coach, it is important to remember that U10 soccer players must still enjoy the drills (they are still only ten years old, after all!), but focusing on skill is vital for their improvement.

If you want your young players to improve while enhancing their love for the sport, consider adding these drills to your practice sessions.

I have broken down each one below to help you use these drills with your team. I have described the play, shown you its benefits, and laid out a step-by-step walkthrough, along with a video, to help you explain it to your players.

Let’s look at each of them now.

1. Guard The Castle

It is as important to prevent your opponent from scoring as it is to score a goal.

This drill called “Guard the Castle” provides you, as a coach, the opportunity to improve your players’ defending skills. (Use it along with these ten defensive soccer drills for maximum effect.)

The drill includes four players in a 12-by-12-yard grid, with one player defending the castle.

The castle is a cone with a ball placed on top, set in the middle of the grid. The defender is a singular player who wears a different color and prevents the ball from being knocked off the cone.

The three remaining players must attempt to knock the castle over while staying within the confines of the grid, and a point is awarded for knocking it over.

One round lasts 4 minutes, whereafter the defender is swapped out by another player.

Benefits

Guard the castle is a great warm-up exercise and provides various other benefits like:

• It improves ball-passing skills.
• Expands player body movement.
• Teaches accuracy and playing angles.
• Sharpens defense skills.

Walkthrough

Step 1: Make a 12-by-12-yard grid.

Step 2: Select a team of four players.

Step 3: Designate one player to defend the castle and provide him/her with a different color jersey.

Step 4: Place a cone with a ball on top in the middle of the grid to represent the castle.

Step 5: Instruct the three remaining players to knock over the castle with a ball while staying in the confines of the grid. 

Step 6: After four minutes or three points scored, replace the defender with one of the other three players. 

Step 7: Only knocking down the castle with the ball awards players a point, and knocking it over with any body part constitutes a reset.

2. Team Reaction Dribbling Drill

10-year-old soccer players are ready to start dribbling at a faster pace, and as a coach, you must refine this skill to improve their accuracy and speed.

Set up a 20-by-20-yard grid with cones and place a flag between seven and ten yards from the corner towards the middle of the grid. Provide each player with a ball and instruct them to dribble it inside the designated grid.

As a coach, you can call out the name of any player, who then must select a flag and dribble the ball as fast as possible around the flag.

The remaining players must follow suit and dribble their balls around the flag, and the last one to do so loses.

I find dribbling drills are great for giving your players more confidence on the field, and have a list of my favorite dribbling drills here.

Benefits

The Team Reaction Dribbling Drill is ideal for teaching players to focus and instantly react, but it also provides benefits like:

• It improves ball technique and dribbling speed.
• It helps players to focus on dribbling while reacting to other players.

Walkthrough

Step 1: Set up a 20-by-20-yard grid and place four corner flags between seven and ten yards from each corner towards the center of the grid.

Step 2: Provide each player inside the grid with a ball.

Step 3: Tell players to free-dribble using the entire grid.

Step 4: Call out a single player’s name.

Step 5: The nominated player must select a flag and dribble around it as fast as possible.

Step 6: Other players must identify the nominated player’s chosen flag and dribble around it as fast as possible.

Step 7: The last player round the flag is eliminated or penalized in whatever manner you decide, for example, sit-ups or push-ups.

3. World Cup Soccer Drill

Teamwork plays a vital role in soccer, and using the World Cup Soccer Drill for 10-year-olds will help you as a coach imprint its effectiveness while making it fun.

The drill requires four teams of three players in each team and a goalie who must prevent any team from scoring a goal. One ball is allocated for the drill, and the four teams compete against each other to score.

The game aims to score a goal to remain in the tournament, and the team left without a goal after the first round was eliminated.

The remaining teams compete in the second round, and the team who fails to score is eliminated. The two final teams compete, and the first to successfully put two balls past the goalie is the winner.

Benefits

The World Cup Soccer Drill requires one team to compete against three others, demanding good communication skills and focus, but also provides other benefits like:

• Promoting teamwork.
• Smart ball play and quick thinking.
• Creating opportunities and finding space.
• Accurate passing.

Walkthrough

Step 1: Select four teams of three players with different colors to separate the teams.

Step 2: Select a single goalkeeper to defend against all four teams.

Step 3: All four teams compete against each other with a single ball to score a goal.

Step 4: The last team to score sits out for the rest of the tournament.

Step 5: In the second round, the remaining three teams compete, and the team that fails to score is eliminated.

Step 6: The two final teams compete, and the first to score two goals wins the World Cup.

4. Monkey In The Middle

Monkey in the Middle is a basic soccer drill for 10-year-olds, but it is very effective and requires them to develop their skills.

As a coach, you can use this drill to get your players focused and ready before a game or as a development exercise.

Three players stand in an imaginary triangle and pass the ball to each other. The ball is passed from one player to another while a fourth player known as the “Monkey” stands in the center and tries to intercept it.

If the player in the middle (Monkey) intercepts the ball, a player in the triangle swaps with him/her, and the drill continues.

Benefits

Monkey in the Middle is a basic drill but provides excellent benefits like:

• It teaches and develops passing skills. 
• The drill improves speed and accuracy.
• Monkey in the Middle advances a player’s ball-intercepting ability.
• The drill enhances a player’s focus on thinking ahead.

Walkthrough

Step 1: Select four players for the drill and give them one ball.

Step 2: Three players stand on the corners of an imaginary triangle.

Step 3: Place one intercepting player called the “Monkey” in the middle of the triangle.

Step 4: The first pass is free, and the Monkey cannot intercept the ball.

Step 5: After the first pass, the Monkey is allowed to intercept.

Step 6: The three offensive players must continue passing the ball to each other and prevent it from being intercepted by the Monkey.

Step 7: The player responsible for losing the ball becomes the Monkey, and the drill continues.

5. Knock Out

In my experience, I have found that 10-year-olds love to play the “Knock Out” soccer drill.

You can use this drill to improve their dribbling skills. They will have to defend the ball while attacking opponents simultaneously.

You must set up a designated grid depending on how many players participate. The players must dribble their ball inside the grid and prevent others from kicking it out of bounds, which will result in elimination.

Each player must protect his/her ball but simultaneously try to eliminate another player by kicking his/her ball out of the grid.

As a coach, you can penalize an elimination with some push-ups or other penalties and return the player to the game.

After three eliminations, the player is out, and this continues until one player remains and is declared the winner.

Benefits

Knock Out is a fun drill that provides various benefits to 10-year-old players like:

• Practicing awareness and control while dribbling.
• It forces players to keep their heads up and focus on their surroundings.
• It improves direction-changing skills.
• It teaches players to alternate their dribbling pace.

Walkthrough

Step 1: Set up a 20-by-20-yard grid. The grid sizes can be enlarged or made smaller depending on the number of players.

Step 2: Instruct players to dribble inside the grid and protect their ball while attempting to kick another player’s ball out of the grid.

Step 3: A player whose ball is kicked out of the grid is penalized, and after the third time, he/she is eliminated from the game.

Step 4: Penalties can include push-ups, sit-ups, or any other exercise you deem appropriate.

Step 7: The last player left in the grid wins.

6. Coach’s Revenge

Speed and agility are vital, and 10-year-olds must improve to be successful soccer players.

Coach’s Revenge is the perfect drill to hone reflecting skills while enhancing focus and fitness.

First, set up a grid and place all the players on one end facing towards the other while you and, if you have an assistant coach, place yourselves in the center. Instruct players to run from one end of the grid to the other side.

Take a ball and kick it at the players, aiming to hit them from their knees. If the ball hits the player, he/she must join you in the middle and help eliminate other players.

Players continue running through the grid until one remains and is declared the winner. You will need a few balls and probably someone to retrieve them.

This is a great drill to add to the list of drills you use for beginners.

Benefits

Coach’s Revenge soccer drill for 10-year-olds is a fun drill that boosts player confidence and provides other benefits like:

• Exercises players’ fitness, speed, and focus.
• Improves the players’ agility.

Walkthrough

Step 1: Set up a 25-by-30-yard grid.

Step 2: Spread the players across one of the edges.

Step 3: Place yourself and an assistant coach in the middle of the grid with several balls.

Step 4: Instruct the players to sprint from one side to the other while you, the coach, try to tag them with the soccer ball, aiming for their lower legs.

Step 5: Players must avoid being hit by the ball.

Step 6: Players struck by the ball must join you in the middle and help eliminate other players.

Step 7: The last remaining player wins.

7. Tic-Tac-Toe Sprints

Tic-Tac-Toe Sprints works just like the paper version, but instead of paper, a grid is made with cones, and the placing is done with pinnies.

Create a tic-tac-toe board with cones and place two more cones 10 yards away as a starting line. Select two teams with four players each and place them at the starting line.

Once you give the signal, one player from each team sprints toward the board and places a pinnie in any chosen block. After placing the pinnie, the players sprint back to the starting line and tag the second player to go.

The goal is to get three pennies in a row, and the first team to succeed wins. If the third player fails to complete a row, the fourth player can move a pinnie to another location.

Benefits

Tic-Tac-Toe Sprints soccer drill for 10-year-olds puts your players’ speed to the test and provides benefits like:

• Improves decision-making under pressure.
• Improves fitness.
• Promotes teamwork.
• Improves speed.

Walkthrough

Step 1: Set up a tic-tac-toe board with cones and another two cones ten yards away as the starting line.

Step 2: Select two teams of four players each.

Step 3: Provide each team with three pinnies that differ in color from the other teams.

Step 4: On your signal, the first player of each team sprints, places a pinnie in a block, and races back to tag the second player.

Step 5: The second player sprints to the tic-tac-toe board, places a pinnie, and returns to tag the third player.

Step 6: The first team to complete a row of three same-colored pinnies wins.

Step 7: If the first three players are unsuccessful, the fourth can sprint and move a pinnie to an open spot to secure the win.

Step 8: The sprints then continue, and a pinnie moved until one of the teams completed a row.

8. Soccer Tennis

Soccer Tennis soccer drill is just like normal tennis, except it is played by three players per team.

A soccer tennis court is set up on the field with a low net. Two teams must return a ball across the net without it carrying directly over the boundary lines.

The ball can bounce once before needing to be returned across the net. Players may utilize other body parts outside their arms and hands, similar to soccer rules.

Players often attempt a scissor kick or overhead, making playing this game on a field much safer. As a coach, you will referee the game and tally the score.

I personally also enjoy joining in with this one, as it’s a lot of fun to play!

Benefits

Soccer Tennis soccer drill for 10-year-olds helps players to work the ball out of the air and includes other benefits like:

• It enhances first-time passing, using their knees, heading, volleys, and other body control techniques.
• It promotes teamwork, communication, and creative movement.

Walkthrough

Step 1: Set up a 12-by-24-yard court.

Step 2: Assign two teams of 3 players each.

Step 3: A larger court allows you to increase the number of players.

Step 4: The game starts with one team serving the ball from behind the back line.

Step 5: The serve must be a volley or half-volley to the opposition team’s side of the court.

Step 6: The receiving team has two touches and one bounce before the ball must be returned across the net.

Step 7: The other team is awarded the point if a ball is knocked out of the court or bounces twice.

Step 8: The score is tallied the same as in normal tennis.

Conclusion

Every coach who works with ten-year-old players knows that it is best to find soccer drills that make it fun but still provide the necessary training to improve their skills.

A combination of fun yet challenging drills is essential to prepare young soccer players for the game.

Check out these 9 Fun (and Effective) Youth Soccer Drills For Kids for more soccer drill ideas.

Effective dribbling is crucial for retaining possession of the ball, enabling players to avoid tackle attempts and create space for passing and offensive plays.

Though professionals make running with the ball seem easy, dribbling is technically complex, requiring a high degree of control and agility, so players must practice this skill thoroughly and regularly.

After over two decades of playing soccer, I’ve been involved in numerous dribbling drills. The following drills are ones that I have found to be excellent for developing and refining soccer players’ dribbling skills.

Best soccer drills for dribbling:

1. Cone Weave
2. Pyramid
3. Speed Weave
4. Shark Attack
5. Zig Zag
6. Speed Circle
7. La Croqueta Roll Through
8. Elastico (Flip Flap)

This list includes drills for single and multiple players and provides options for training elementary and advanced dribbling techniques.

I’ve presented these drills below and have included a brief description of each exercise and its benefits, followed by a video showing you how to do the drill and a step-by-step walk-through.

By the end, you should have 8 drills that you will be comfortable taking to your next training session.

1. Cone Weave

The cone weave is a simple individual drill for working on foundational dribbling techniques that is suitable for players of all skill levels.

I chose to start with this drill because it is perfect for assessing your player’s basic dribbling skills and making sure you are starting from a solid base.

Players run between a line of closely spaced cones using one foot to control and move the ball forward. The aim is to use small touches and keep the ball close to the body as you weave through the cones. 

In this example, players use one foot to move the ball.

However, the cone weave drill can be varied in multiple ways to concentrate on specific dribbling touches and movements.

Benefits of the Drill

The benefit of the cone weave drill is that it helps players build their ‘close control’ abilities:

• Trains players to keep the ball tight at their feet while running.
• Enables players to control the speed and direction of the ball with increased precision.
• Develops the habit of looking up rather than down at the ball.
• Hones players’ spatial awareness.

Check out this drill in the video below.

Walk-Through

Step 1: Lay 10 to 15 cones in a straight line, leaving 1½ to 2 feet between each cone.

Step 2: Starting at one end of the cones, the player weaves between them with the ball close to their bodies, using one foot to move the ball with 3 quick, light foot touches.

Step 3: When the player reaches the last cone, they can repeat the drill with the opposite foot, increasing the speed with each repetition (the number of reps depends on the training context).

If you’re looking for more simple soccer drills, then have a look at my list of the 10 Best Soccer Drills for Beginners – A Step by Step Guide, for more options.

2: Pyramid

Next, we have the pyramid drill.

The pyramid drill involves an individual player dribbling past pairs of cones arranged in a pyramidal configuration.

I chose this drill because it requires players to be creative about the path they choose to take through the cones. They need to think for themselves rather than just follow instructions.

Players run the ball through the cones in an undetermined path as though dribbling past a group of defenders.

It is crucial that you use pairs of cones because this simulates real defenders more accurately than a single cone, which is significantly thinner than a human!

Benefits of the Drill

The team’s dribbling skills will benefit from the pyramid drill in the following ways:

• Builds confidence and decision-making acuity when maneuvering past multiple opponents in close succession.
• Improves close ball control.
• Develops the ability to perform rapid changes in direction and speed.
• Reinforces the habit of looking up while dribbling.
• Allows players to practice and experiment with various dribbling tactics and techniques.

Check out the pyramid drill in this video below.

Walk-Through

Step 1: Set up a pair of cones about 3 feet apart to form the top of the pyramid, then place 2 pairs of cones (with the same 3-foot spacing) for the second row of the arrangement, 3 pairs for the third row, and 4 pairs for the base of the pyramidal pattern (optional).

Step 2: Instruct players to start at the top of the pyramid, from where they dribble the ball around (not between) the pairs of cones and exit at the bottom of the pattern, using any path and techniques they wish.

Step 3: After players reach the end of the pyramid, they can walk back to the starting point and repeat the drill (or wait for another player to have a turn).

3. Speed Weave

The “speed weave” drill is similar to the cone weave, but, as the name suggests, it focuses on speed.

Each player weaves in an s-shaped path through a straight line of widely-spaced cones, running as fast as possible while maintaining ball control.

I like this drill because we know that if a player can combine speed and dribbling skills effectively, they can become one of the most effective players on the field.

After passing the last cone in the line, the players must accelerate to a full sprint with the ball through an open space until they reach a single cone that marks the endpoint of the drill.

Benefits of the Drill

Getting your team to practice the speed weave drill will provide numerous benefits, including:

• Improving a player’s ability to move forward with the ball at high speed.
• Hones players’ proficiency at making rapid, side-to-side movements (which is particularly useful for wingers).
• Develops general dribbling agility and control.

Check out this drill in the video below.

Walk-Through

Step 1: First, you position a single cone at the starting point, leaving an open space of about 5 feet and arrange 7 cones in a straight line (spaced about 3 feet apart), and finally, leave a gap of 15 to 20 feet and place a cone to mark the end of the course.

Step 2: Direct the players to start the drill at the first cone and instruct them to dribble the ball with one foot while weaving rapidly through the middle cones.

Step 3: Once players finish weaving through the center series of cones, they sprint at full speed (keeping the ball close to their bodies) until they reach the last cone.

Step 4: Repeat the drill with the other foot.

If, at the end of this article, you need more options , then check out my list of 10 Soccer Ball Control and Footwork Drills (For All Ages), for more ways to improve your players dribbling skills.

4. Shark Attack

“Shark Attack” is a fun group drill for your team involving dribbling between safe zones (called islands) and open spaces where they have to evade being tackled by defenders (the sharks).

I really enjoy using this drill with younger kids as they always love the game aspect of this drill. (Check out my other recommended drills for kindergarten kids or youth if you are interested.)

Players are safe when inside the boundaries of an island (marked with 4 cones) because sharks cannot enter.

However, only one player is allowed on an island at one time, and players cannot stay there for more than 5 seconds.

If a shark gets the ball and kicks it out of bounds, the player who lost possession must leave the area and perform a short task before re-entering the game.

While performing the drill, players should focus on using small, controlled touches.

They should also concentrate on dynamic movements to successfully avoid defenders while moving between the islands.

Benefits of the Drill

The shark attack drill benefits the team’s dribbling skills in several ways:

• Players ingrain the habit of looking up when dribbling while also developing and enhancing their spatial awareness.
• Develops the ability to make rapid direction and speed changes.
• Improves the capacity for calm and decisive thinking while under pressure from defenders.

Check out this drill in the video below.

Walk-Through

Step 1: Start your layout for the drill by creating 4 islands arranged in a 65 x 65-foot square (one island per corner), with each island consisting of 4 cones to form a 16 x 16-foot box.

Step 2: Finish the drill configuration by creating a fifth island in the center of the playing area.

Step 3: You can designate 2 or 3 players to act as sharks (wearing bibs) and give 6 to 8 players a ball (increase the number of sharks to make the drill more challenging).

Step 4: The players take their starting position (anywhere inside the playing area).

Step 5: Set a timer for 5 minutes (you can adjust the time to suit your team’s age and fitness level).

Step 6: Start the game with the players dribbling from one island to another (in no particular order) while trying to evade the sharks when moving through the open spaces in the playing area.

Step 7: After the specified time limit, you can instruct each shark to swap positions with a player so they also have a chance to practice their dribbling skills.

For more attacking and defending drills, check my recommendations of the top 10 Soccer Attacking Drills or the 10 Best Defensive Soccer Drills.

5. Zig-Zag

Zig-zag is a versatile, effective individual drill for building and honing dribbling skills.

You place cones in 2 widely-spaced lines, with your players dribbling in a zig-zag pattern from one cone to another.

Players use a specific dribbling technique during each repetition. They can also practice variations with subsequent reps.

During the drill, you should get your players to move quickly between the cones with small touches while maintaining precise control of the ball and keeping it close to their body.

Players should try to increase their speed with each subsequent rep.

I like to encourage players to perform the drill multiple times, and encourage them as I see their confidence and ability improve.

This drill also works particulary well as a drill for high school students.

Benefits of the Drill

The benefits of the zig-zag drill for players’ dribbling proficiency include:

• Improves close control skills (like using small, light touches)
• Develops the ability to make fast and precise changes in direction and speed.
• Increases speed while running with the ball.

Check out this drill in the video below.

Walk-Through

Step 1: Arrange 6 to 8 cones in a zig-zag pattern about 15 feet apart, with a 6-foot spacing between the cones on each side of the configuration.

Step 2: Each player begins the drill at the cone on the bottom right corner of the configuration, and they start dribbling with the outside of the left foot in a diagonal path towards the second cone.

Step 3: When they reach the second cone, the player stops the ball with the inside of their left foot.

Step 4: The player shifts the ball to the outside of their right foot and dribbles with the ball to the third cone (on the right side of the cone pattern).

Step 5: When the player arrives at the third cone, they stop the ball with the inside of their right foot.

Step 6: The ball gets swapped to the outside of the left foot, and the player repeats the procedure until they reach the final cone.

Step 7: Instruct your team to repeat the drill using variations like only dribbling with the outside of their feet and changing speeds (fast and slow) between each cone.

6. Speed Circle

In the speed circle drill, you have your players run with a ball in a straight line through the center of a circular configuration of cones.

Once they reach the boundary of the cones, they dribble around the outside of the circle until they reach the starting point. The players repeat the process but dribble around the opposite side of the pattern each time.

Get your teams to vary the speeds during the drill.

They should dribble slowly along the straight line inside the circle and significantly increase their speed while running with the ball along the perimeter of the playing area.

Benefits of the Drill

Practicing the speed circle with your team improves several aspects of their dribbling skills:

• Strengthens overall close control.
• Develops the ability to dribble at high speeds.
• Improves players’ ability to make dynamic changes in acceleration and deceleration.
• Hones the capacity to dribble in straight and curved lines.

Check out this drill in the video below.

Walk-Through

Step 1: Start establishing the layout for the drill by creating 3-foot wide entry and exit gates with 2 pairs of cones placed about 10 to 15 feet apart.

Step 2: Finish the pattern by placing 4 cones on each side of the gates in a curved line (semi-circular shape) to form a circular shape.

Step 3: Players start the drill at the entry gate, dribbling with 1 of their feet into the circle following a straight line toward the exit gate, and make sure to move with the ball in a slow and controlled manner.

Step 4: When they reach the exit gate, have them dribble out and around the boundary of the circle (in a clockwise direction) at full speed.

Step 5: Once arriving back at the entry gate, players finish the rep by repeating the procedure as before, but this time dribbling counter-clockwise around the circle towards the starting point.

Step 6: Players can repeat the drill 5 times with each foot, and you can incorporate technical variations by having them use different sides of their feet (inside or outside only, or a combination of both).

7. La Croqueta Roll-Through

The “La Croqueta Roll-through” is a technical drill that is worth considering if you are coaching players with advanced skills.

I like this drill because it challenges those players that find some of the other drills a little too easy.

This drill allows players to practice the la croqueta, a complex, multi-touch technique using the outside, inside, and soles of the feet.

The move is effective for dodging and breaking away from defenders while in confined spaces.

You use a straight line of closely spaced cones to create the layout for the drill.

Players take turns to weave through the line of cones while performing the la croqueta and rolling the ball through the obstacles.

The focus is on ball control and economy of movement. Players should make small, accurate touches so the ball stays close to their body throughout the drill.

Benefits of the Drill

The la croqueta roll-through confers the following benefits to players’ dribbling skills:

• Develops and refines their close control ball skills and footwork.
• Strengthens their ability to outmaneuver defenders in tight spaces (the drill is particularly effective for improving players’ side-to-side movements).
• Improves their concentration while running and controlling the ball (because of the intense mental focus required to perform the la croqueta correctly).

Check out this drill in the video below.

Walk-Through

Step 1: Position 7 cones in a straight line, leaving a 1 or 1½-foot gap between each cone.

Step 2: Instruct players to start the drill by using the sole of the right foot to roll the ball (in a leftward direction) between the first and second cones.

Step 3: Once the ball has passed between the cones, players stop its motion with the inside of the left foot.

Step 4: Next, each player performs the la croqueta by quickly and precisely shifting the ball from the inside of the left foot to the inside of the right foot and then back to the inside of the left foot.

Step 5: After the la croqueta, the players use the sole of their left foot to roll the ball (rightwards) through the second and third cones.

Step 6: Players stop the ball with the inside part of their right foot.

Step 7: Now, they perform the next la croqueta as before but in reverse, passing the ball from the inside of the right foot to the inside of the left foot and then back again. 

Step 8: Players roll the ball through the third and fourth cones with the sole of the right foot.

Step 9: They repeat the drill from Step 2, executing la croquetas and roll-throughs on alternating sides until reaching the end of the line of cones.

8. Elastico (Flip Flap)

The “elastico” is another advanced dribbling drill your team can practice.

Also known by the less elegant name flip flap, the elastico is a fast, two-part technique for moving around defenders and into open space.

I think it’s a great skill to learn and I included it in my list of the Top 10 Soccer Tricks and Skills to Learn.

This dribbling maneuver looks simple, but your players must invest considerable time and effort to execute it effectively on the field.

The first part (the flip) of the elastico involves shifting the ball to the side of the body with the outside part of the foot.

For the second part, the player performs a swift downward chop with the inside of the same foot to stop the ball and send it sideways to the opposite foot.

Benefits

The elastico drill benefits players in the following ways:

• Develops skill and confidence with this specific dribbling technique.
• Improves side-to-side ball control for evading defenders.
• Trains players’ ability to change speed while running with the ball (since they stop advancing while performing the technique and then rapidly accelerate away after completing it).

Check out this drill in the video below.

Walk-Through

Step 1: Get players to start by practicing the technique without the ball, instructing them to step their playing foot to the side (while incorporating their whole body in the movement), then have them bring the same foot down to the ground at about an 80-degree angle.

Step 2: Next, team members can practice the elastico while standing in place, shifting the ball sideways with the outside of the right foot and then chopping the right foot downward to catch the ball and send it to the left side of the body.

Step 3: For the final progression, you can place a cone about 6 feet ahead of the starting point.

Step 4: Tell players to dribble the ball at high speed toward the cone, then once in front of the obstacle, they must sweep the ball to the right-hand side with the outside of their right foot, finally catching and sending it at an angle to the left foot.

Step 5: When their left foot receives the ball, they accelerate forward and past the left-hand side of the cone.

Step 6: You can have your team repeat the drill with the same right-to-left foot sequence, or they can build versatility by alternating the feet and performing the flip with the left foot and the flap with the right.

Conclusion

The drills I’ve described above are effective for developing foundational and advanced dribbling skills in the player’s you are coaching.

Working these drills with your players provides the opportunity to practice and improve their close control, dynamic speed and directional changes, overall spatial awareness, and other essential elements of effective dribbling.

For more options, check out my 10 Best Soccer Coaching Drills: Perfect for Practice Sessions.

I have a daughter who is currently in kindergarten, and she loves learning through simple play-based activities, such as the soccer drills I’m going to describe to you here.

These drills can easily be defined as “beginner and basic soccer games for kids.” But teaching them new skills through games is exactly what they need at this stage.

Not only will these drills build their soccer skills, but they will also assist in developing the fundamentals that young minds require to succeed in all aspects of life.

Skills such as listening to instructions and acquiring soccer skills are great starting points for the sport.

The Best Kindergarten Soccer Drills:

1. Red Light Green Light
2. Volcanoes
3. Hit The Coach
4. Pinnie Snag Tag
5. Sharks And Minnows
6. Simon Says
7. Clean Your Backyard
8. Musical Balls

Soccer drills for kindergarten kids must be fun and straightforward to keep them engaged. These young children must be actively involved before their concentration levels diminish.

The above list provides superb exercises tailored to kindergarteners.

As you read on, you will find a description of each drill, their benefits, and step-by-step instructions to get you started.

Most of the drills require at least one soccer ball. If you don’t have any, you should have a look at my recommendations for soccer balls for toddlers.

Let’s take a look at each drill now.

1. Red Light – Green Light Drill

This soccer drill keeps the classic schoolyard games’ central idea, “red light, green light,” in mind, the only difference being that the children will keep a soccer ball at their feet.

Children start by standing on one side of the field, and you, the coach, will be positioned on the opposite side.

The drill aims for the children to follow your shoutouts and race toward you.

Another option I often prefer is to allow the children to find a place wherever they see fit and let them run around randomly on the field with the ball.

Then, when you shout out “green light,” it means that the players must dash.

Shouting “yellow light” indicates slower movements.

And the highlight of the game, “red light,” means a complete stop.

A stop must be executed by placing one foot on the ball using the sole of the foot.

The first child to reach you is the winner.

Check out the drill in this video below.

Benefits

There are numerous benefits to this drill.

The main benefit is that the drill helps the children to work on their speed change and ball control, which in turn will allow them to:

• Practice dribbling skills and the ability to change direction quickly.
• Exercise proper ball control.
• Learn the importance of keeping the ball close to their feet.
• Work on stopping the ball swiftly, helping to improve their agility.
• Develop speed adjustment skills.
• Learn the importance of listening carefully to you.
• Exercise coordination.

Walk-through of the Drill

Step 1: Line the children up at a starting line or use a 20 by 20 yards marked-off area. Using four cones will suffice.

Step 2: You should be positioned around 15-20 yards away from the children, with your back facing them.

Step 3: You must yell “green light,” signaling the children to dribble the ball toward you as quickly as possible. Encourage the children to pretend to be zooming race car drivers.

Step 4: Yelling “yellow light” indicates slower dribbling movements and small touches, keeping the ball close to the body.

Step 5: Children must reach a dead stop when you yell “red light,” keeping the ball frozen, one foot on the ball.

Step 6: After yelling “red light,” you must briefly wait and then turn around to check if anyone is still moving.

Step 7: If caught moving, the child must return to the starting point and restart their game.

Step 8: Continue alternating between the three color lights until the first child reaches you and becomes the winner of the round.

Step 9: Play as many rounds as you wish.

Step 10: (Optional) Encourage the children to make their own versions of other colors. For example, a purple light could mean dance on the spot.

2. Volcanoes Drill

“Volcanoes” is another excellent way of developing children’s basic soccer skills while having fun.

You need to create what can be imagined to be a little “cone maze” by placing several cones reasonably close together in a random formation on the field. (These cones on Amazon are a great option if you don’t have any.)

These cones you have just set up are the hot, erupting “volcanoes,” and the kids need to dribble the ball through the maze without hitting any of the volcanoes.

You are encouraged to make loud exploding noises if any cones are hit! I find this always brings a laugh out of the kids!

This drill is one of several kindergarten soccer drills that can be played individually or as part of a team.

You can find more ball control soccer drills in my list of 10 Soccer Ball Control and Footwork Drills (For All Ages)

Check out the drill in this video below.

Benefits

This super fun drill benefits the children in the following ways:

• It creates an excellent opportunity to practice dribbling skills.
• Encourages the love for soccer in a fun and engaging way.
• Works on speed and agility.
• Encourages the players to control the ball by keeping it close to their bodies while dribbling.

Walk-through of the Drill

Step 1: Start by placing a good number of cones semi-close to each other in a random pattern on the field.

Step 2: Position the children with a stationary ball at a decided starting point.

Step 3: On your signal, the children must dribble the ball through the cone maze without hitting any “volcanoes.” The children should dribble from one side of the field to the other.

Step 4: Please make your most impressive exploding noises if any cones are hit.

Step 5: Motivate the children to repeat the drill as many times as they choose.

Step 6: Increase the difficulty of the drill by encouraging the children to speed up with every attempt at getting through the maze. They need to be able to maintain reasonable ball control while dribbling comfortably.

3. Hit The Coach Drill

Does the name of this drill mean what you think it means? Oh yes, it does!

Coaches, you need to prepare to get hit by the ball!

But they are just kindergarten kids; how hard can the hit be?

I can tell you that this is one of the most enjoyable kindergarten soccer drills that will keep the kids laughing and coming back for more…I mean, how often does one get the opportunity to hit your coach?

This drill entails the children standing in a squared-off area as a team, intentionally aiming to kick and hit you as many times as possible.

Once the ball hits you, the kids may pick an animal that you need to act out.

Keep going until all the children have had a turn or two. Go ahead and have fun, and please remember to be goofy!

Check out the drill in this video below.

Benefits

The benefits of using this drill are that the kindergarten children can:

• Practice their soccer footwork.
• Develop their “shooting” skills.
• Learn to achieve better ball control.
• Practice dribbling and passing soccer skills.
• Exercise their kicking skills, aiming for more accurate hits.

Walk-through of the Drill

Step 1: Set out four cones to create a boxed/square area on the field.

Step 2: Position all the players inside the box, each with their ball.

Step 3: You need to place yourself in front of your players.

Step 4: On your signal, the children may kick and aim the ball at your legs.

Step 5: Every player who succeeds at hitting you may choose an animal for you to act out.

Step 6: Continue with the drill until all players have had a turn to hit you with their balls.

Step 7: (Optional) Create different versions of the game, such as “Hit The Parent,” etc.

4. Pinnie Snag Tag Drill

Pinnie Snag Tag is by far one of the more favorable warm-up activities, which can double up as a fun and effective soccer drill, too.

When using this game as a warm-up, players will not need a ball, only a teammate to work with.

To exercise the drill version of the Pinnie Snag Tag, a designated playing area can be marked off with cones, and the kindergarten children are given a ball each, with a pinnie tag hanging out of their shorts.

Players are omitted if their pinnies are pulled out, or their ball is kicked out of the marked playing area.

Check out the drill in this video below.

Benefits

This drill is an excellent way for kindergarten children to:

• Work on their agility and quickness in a soccer game.
• Increase their core temperature, warming up effectively to avoid unnecessary injuries.
• Learn communication and teamwork skills.

Walk-through of the Drill

Step 1: Use discretion to map out a reasonably sized playing area using cones. The size is dependent on the number of players.

Step 2: Each player places a pinnie tag hanging from the back of their shorts and receives a ball.

Step 3: On your signal, players attempt to pull the tag out of each other’s shorts while exercising their agility, ball, and speed skills.

Step 4: A pulled-out tag means the player is “out.”

Step 5: A kicked-out ball also indicates the end of a player’s turn.

Step 6: The last player standing is declared the winner.

Step 7: Repeat the drill with and without a ball as often as the children’s concentration levels see fit.

5. Sharks And Minnows Drill

Sharks and Minnows is most definitely on the list of the most amusing kindergarten soccer drills.

I use this one so much that I’ve also added it to my list of 9 Fun (and Effective) Youth Soccer Drills For Kids and 8 Best Soccer Drills For Midfielders.

In this drill, the children may be given a turn to be a shark or a minnow.

This game is a fantastic soccer practice drill that is an excellent staple for beginner levels.

The task of the minnows is to dribble the ball from one side of the “ocean”(field) to the other, ensuring that the sharks do not get a hold of their ball.

As the coach, you usually play the role of the shark, but once a player’s ball is kicked away, they can become a shark, too.

The idea is to use small ball touches to dodge around the shark and big touches to run away. Encourage the children to execute both left and right kicks, too.

Alternatively, the drill can also be practiced by choosing a player or two to be the shark from the get-go, allowing you to use a whistle or signal to get the drill going.

Check out the drill in this video below.

Benefits

This drill will help kindergarten players to:

• Practice the skill of keeping their heads up and eye on the ball.
• Strengthen dribbling skills by changing speed and direction.
• Exercise the ability of protecting the ball.
• Improve their weak foot skills (non-dominant foot).
• Practice both small and big ball touches.

Walk-through of the Drill

Step 1: Use four cones to secure a playing area of approximately 30 yards long by 20 yards wide. This is the “ocean.”

Step 2: You may opt to pick one or two children to be the sharks themselves.

Step 3: Line up the minnows on one side of the field, with a ball for each of them.

Step 4: Signal the start of the drill, allowing the minnows to try to run past the sharks while retaining their balls by attempting to dribble from one side of the ocean to the other.

Step 5: The round ends when players reach the other side.

Step 6: Players who don’t go to the other side and whose balls are knocked away by the shark become the new sharks.

Step 7: Repeat the drill until only one player is left to be declared the winning minnow.

6. Simon Says Drill

Which kindergarten kid doesn’t enjoy a traditional old game of Simon Says? I know I certainly did back in the day.

The gist of the drill is for Simon (you) to give instructions for the children to follow.

This is your grand opportunity to be as funny and silly as possible, fostering good connections with the children on their levels and adding humor to kindergarten soccer drills.

Each player is given a ball to begin with, and they need to listen to Simon’s instructions carefully. The most popular instructions include:

• Simon says: Place your foot on the ball.
• Simon says: Stop the ball.
• Simon says: Change direction.
• Simon says: Kick the ball.
• Simon says: Dribble to your left.
• Simon says: Dribble to your right.
• Simon says: Freeze!
• Simon says: Act like a snake.
• Simon says: Act like a monkey.

This is a great drill to add to your list of soccer drills for beginners.

Check out the drill in this video below.

Benefits

This is a fantastic drill for kindergarten children to:

• Have great fun while improving their listening skills.
• Exercise executing your instructions correctly.
• Improve their ball control.
• Learn body awareness.
• Practice the concept of left and right.

Walk-through of the Drill

Step 1: Prepare a decent-sized square of field (big enough to avoid bumping each other) and provide each player with a soccer ball.

Step 2: Begin by giving the instructions slowly, only one at a time. For example: “Simon says place your foot on the ball.” “Simon says kick the ball to your friend.”

Step 3: Continue with as many creative instructions as possible, such as “Simon says dribble your ball to a friend with brown hair.”

Step 4: Add a few non-soccer-related instructions, such as skip, jump, clapping hands twice, etc.

Step 5: Call out specific individuals, praising their good listening and following skills to create an encouraging atmosphere.

Step 6: End the drill when the children’s focus and concentration wear off.

7. Clean Your Backyard Drill

With this drill, players must be divided into two even teams and given the same number of balls.

A moat must be created in the middle of the field, precisely between the two teams. Both teams need to “clean their backyards.”

To achieve this, the players are challenged to kick their balls into the other teams’ “backyard.”

This is the ideal way of blowing off some steam in kindergarten soccer drills.

You will need to remove any balls that land inside the moat, and the drill aims to see which team can clean their “backyards” the quickest to be declared the winner.

Check out the drill in this video below.

Benefits

The specific goals of this drill are to:

• Develop and exercise kindergarten children’s defending skills.
• Teach the “defenders” how to clear the ball by leaning back and getting right underneath their balls.
• Encourage striking the ball, kicking as hard and far as possible.
• Practice foot-eye coordination.
• Learn how to work together as a team.

Walk-through of the Drill

Step 1: Create two teams by dividing all of your players equally.

Step 2: Provide each team with an equal amount of soccer balls.

Step 3: Use four cones to mark an area of 40 by 30 yards with a 5-yard-wide moat in the middle of the field.

Step 4: Start the drill by giving a signal and have the players attempt to kick as many balls over the moat and into the other team’s “backyard” as possible.

Step 5: Remove the balls that are kicked into the moat.

Step 6: The team that cleans their “backyard” first wins.

Step 7: Repeat the drill, giving each team a chance to play on both sides of the field.

8. Musical Balls Drill

This drill is easiest to do with at least four players, each with their own ball.

The players are challenged to dribble their balls in a marked-out grid.

After roughly 30 seconds, you must shout, “Change! “.

Players need to stop where they are and swiftly locate a new ball to continue the dribbling exercise. This game works similarly to “musical chairs,” just without the actual music.

One ball is removed after the first round, leaving a child to run without a ball. After another 30 seconds, you must once again signal a change while the players need to find a new ball.

The player without a ball is “out” and is encouraged to cheer on their remaining teammates. This drill is repeated until only one player remains and is declared the winner.

Check out the drill in this video below.

Benefits

Musical Balls certainly bring an element of fun into kindergarten soccer drills and help to develop the following skills in your kids:

• Listening skills.
• The ability to follow instructions.
• Swift and agile ball control.
• Keeping the ball close to their bodies.
• Quick start and stop reactions.

Walk-through of the Drill

Step 1: Using cones, create a box for the players to work in, a marked grid of approximately 20 by 15 yards.

Step 2: The round begins on your signal.

Step 3: Players dribble their balls in the grid.

Step 4: You must call out “change” after 30 seconds.

Step 5: Players stop, find a new ball, and continue to dribble at your signal.

Step 6: Remove one player’s ball after the first round. This player then proceeds without a ball.

Step 7: Call out “Change” during each round, eliminating the “ball-less” player each time. The eliminated player moves out of the grid, and thus, another ball is removed.

Step 8: Repeat the drill until only one player remains, the “winner.”

Next Steps

The drills and games discussed above are the perfect way to introduce your kindergarten kids to soccer and help them begin to acquire all the necessary soccer skills.

They do all this while having fun and developing a genuine love for the sport.

After all, young children learn so effectively through play and imagination, so implementing all or some of these drills will produce happy, well-rounded little players.

Check out even more drills in one of my following articles:

• 10 Best Defensive Soccer Drills (Great for All Ages)
• 10 Soccer Attacking Drills: Improve Your Chance of Winning
• 7 Most Effective Soccer Drills for High School Players

However, knowing their responsibilities in the role is only half the battle; the other half is training to ensure proper control, accuracy, and speed so they can be the best they can be.

With this in mind, I have compiled eight of the best drills for midfielders that I have used and benefited from.

If you are a coach, these drills will help ensure your team is ready for anything. If you’re a midfielder looking to improve your gameplay, then these drills will take your skill and technique to the next level.

The best soccer drills for midfielders are:

1. 2 V 2 Possession Drill
2. First Touch Change of Direction
3. Aerial Change of Direction
4. Tight Space Maneuver and Pass
5. Aerial Pass
6. Four Turns and a Pass
7. Single-Leg Weave
8. Sharks and Minnows

This list of drills for midfielders works to improve on various aspects of the game and provides a variety of exercises that are useful in helping train midfielders.

Many of these can also be adapted slightly to focus on specific skills.

To help you use these drills with your team, I have broken down each one below to describe the play, show you their benefits, and lay out a step-by-step walkthrough, along with a video, to help you explain them to your players.

To kick-start your soccer training, I highly recommend you also check out my 30-day Soccer Fitness program.

Following a soccer-focused workout program that gives you some clear direction to your training will set you up perfectly to make the most of these drills.

Combining the technical side of these drills with a dramatic increase in your fitness will set you apart from the other players around you.

A great soccer player is a fit soccer player. I created this fitness program to help you reach your potential and be that player.

Let’s look through each of these drills now.

1. 2 V 2 Possession Drill

Maintaining possession of the ball is one of the most basic aspects of a midfielder’s role.

I find that this drill is easiest to do with four players. You should use two players per team, and the losing team gets replaced at the end of the round.

The drill takes place in a box made by placing four corner cones about 15 yards apart.

You can also change the size or add obstacles to make the drill more challenging.

The goal of the drill is for one of the teams to keep possession of the ball and make five consecutive passes while dribbling without being dispossessed by the other team of two players.

The drill starts when the team that gets given the ball makes their first pass; at this point, the other team needs to use tackling or intercepting to win possession of the ball.

Benefits of This Drill

With two teams facing off against each other, there are benefits for both sides:

• The defending team starts by focusing on quick passing, ball control while dribbling, and agility, while the other team focuses on intercepting, tackling, and applying pressure to the defending team. 
• Doing this provides the benefit of training many different essential aspects of soccer using one drill.

Check out this video below to get an idea of what the drill requires.

Walk-through of the Drill

Step 1: Using cones, create a box for the two teams to work in, with the ideal size being around 12 to 15 yards by the same dimensions.

Step 2: Choose the defending team and give them the ball.

Step 3: The round starts when the defending team makes the first pass, at which time they start dribbling and passing between the two players.

Step 4: Once the defending team starts, the second team must try to win the ball’s possession using interception and tackling.

Step 5: Whichever of the teams can win and keep the ball while dribbling and making five consecutive passes wins the round.

Step 6: The winning team stays in the box while the losing team switches out with another team of two players.

Step 7: If neither team wins before the allotted time runs out, for example, 90 seconds, both teams get replaced.

2. First Touch Change of Direction

Depending on the number of midfielders available, players can do this drill alone or with a partner to help.

If you wish to do this drill alone, you need a wall to bounce the ball off.

I use this drill to familiarize midfielders with the movements they need to make to change the ball’s direction when it touches their foot and allow them greater directional control.

To start this drill, you can use two cones, poles, or markers to serve as obstacles for the player to move the ball around.

The rep starts when the player kicks the ball against the wall or to the other player, after which it should return straight, and the player needs to use their feet to change the direction 90 degrees to the left or right.

Players should repeat this action until they clear the obstacles both ways.

Benefits

This drill will help your team and players practice greater directional ball control at first touch. In the process, this allows them to:

• Be more agile.
• Make faster decisions.
• Change direction quickly after receiving a pass.

Check out this drill in the video below:

Walk-through of the Drill

Step 1: Set up the obstacles by placing poles, cones, or other markers in a straight line between 1 and 1.5 yards between each. Two obstacles should be enough, but you can do more to make the rep longer.

Step 2: Position the player in the middle of the two obstacles.

Step 3: Start the rep by signaling that the player needs to kick the ball forward.

Step 4: If using a second player, the ball should return to the starting player in a straight line. Alternatively, the ball should return if bounced off a wall.

Step 5: The starting player needs to angle their foot to receive the ball and change its direction 90 degrees to the left or right while not stopping its momentum, allowing it to travel past the first obstacle.

Step 6: After moving past the obstacle, the ball should get kicked back to the other player or the wall, and the process should repeat with a change of direction once the player reaches the end of the obstacle line.

Step 7: Repeat the last two steps until the starting player is back in the middle of the obstacle line.

Check out my recommended 10 Soccer Ball Control and Footwork Drills (For All Ages) for more drills that can help a midfielder in this area of their training.

3. Aerial Change of Direction

With this drill, you can line the midfielder up and make them repeat the drill while cycling through the other players on the team.

I start this drill by making a 5-by-5-yard box with four cones and laying down two extra cones on the sides 10 yards away.

Next, a ball gets placed in the middle of the box, and a player has to lift it into the air by juggling it before changing direction towards one of the outer cones. Check out my favorite drills to improve your soccer juggling skills here.

By changing the angle of their feet, the midfielders need to move the ball towards one of the outer cones, dribble, turn around, and return the ball to the center of the box, where the process gets repeated, or the players get swapped out.

Here is an example of how to do this drill:

Benefits of The Drill

The benefits and goals of this drill are to:

• Train your midfielders to get the ball off the ground.
• Control it if it comes from the air.
• Help control dribble speed, agility, and direction changes.

Walk-through of the Drill

Step 1: Create a 5-by-5 box by placing four cones as corners and two additional cones as the outer targets 10 yards away.

Step 2: Place a ball in the center of the box and position the player behind the ball.

Step 3: On your signal, the player should lift the ball, juggle it, kick it higher, and then direct it to one of the outer target cones with their foot when it comes back down.

Step 4: After directing the ball, the player should dribble with the ball to the cone as fast as possible.

Step 5: Once the player reaches the cone, they need to turn 180 degrees and return the ball to the center of the box.

Step 6: The next player can take their place behind the ball, or you can change directions.

4. Tight Space Maneuver and Pass

As a coach, you need multiple drills available to get the best out of your players.

For this drill, I find it’s best to arrange the player and a stationary ball between two cones around 5 yards apart and place a target net about 20 yards away from the player.

You can also use multiple nets if you have them.

To start the drill, the player must dribble the ball in a figure 8 shape around the two cones before making a low and firm pass to the target net.

If you have multiple nets, the player can repeat the process for all the target nets, or players can get swapped out each round.

You can use this video below to help.

Benefits of This Drill

The benefit of using this drill is that you can do it individually or as a team of players cycling through. In addition, this drill focuses on the following:

• Improving a midfielder’s dribbling ability.
• Improving low-and-firm passing.
• Teaching midfield players better ball control while dribbling the figure 8 shape.

Walk-through of The Drill

Step 1: Start by placing two cones about 5 yards apart and setting a target net about 20 yards away from the cones.

Step 2: Position a player with a stationary ball in the middle of the two cones.

Step 3: On your signal, the player must dribble a figure 8 around the cones and return to the center.

Step 4: Without stopping, the player must then take a step toward the net and make a low and firm pass into the net.

Step 5: The player can retrieve the ball, and another player can repeat the process. Alternatively, one player can do a few reps at a time, and the target net can get moved.

5. Aerial Pass

Maintaining control of the ball while it is in the air is a key aspect of any midfielder’s game.

One way I find it helpful to improve passing and aerial control is by doing this aerial pass drill.

You can again cycle players through after each turn or focus on a single midfield player.

During this drill, the player must get positioned in a 5-by-5-yard box, with the goal posts about 30 yards away to the front.

The player must start with a juggle before directing the ball outside the box and making a long forward pass.

This drill focuses on aerial control and a long aerial pass, so you must focus on technique and ensure the pass gets done with a good amount of backspin.

You can use this video below to show you how this drill gets done.

Benefits of This Drill

This drill has the following benefits:

• It works on more than one skill at a time, including a long pass and aerial control.
• You can do this alone with a single midfielder or as a team, cycling through each player.
• It’s also a great drill for a beginner.

Walk-Through Of The Drill

Step 1: Use four cones to create a 5-by-5-yard box about 30 yards from the goal box.

Step 2: Select a player and position them in the middle of the box.

Step 3: The player must juggle the ball to show aerial control on your signal.

Step 4: Next, the player must angle their foot and softly kick the ball out of the box to the side.

Step 5: Without stopping, the player must run to the ball and make a long aerial pass into the goal while focusing on technique and backspin.

Step 6: Repeat the drill while switching sides or cycle other players in.

6. Four Turns and Pass

The four turns and pass drill is simple but can vary drastically depending on the turns you focus on.

This drill is perfect for a single player, though you can swap out players, and uses two cones or poles placed about 1 to 1.5 yards apart and a target net to pass to.

The drill starts with the player nudging the ball forward before doing a turn of the coach’s choice to avoid the cones or obstacles.

Similar to the earlier first touch change of direction drill, the player should repeat the nudge and turns until they clear the obstacles both ways before passing into the net.

After this round, retrieve the ball, and the next player can start, or you can do more reps.

Benefits of This Drill

This drill is a great way to:

• Focus on the turns your midfielders can use.
• Allow them to get comfortable avoiding obstacles before performing it in a field
• Practice passing.

Walk-through of The Drill

Step 1: Place two cones or poles as obstacles about 1 to 1.5 yards apart and 10 to 20 yards away from a target net.

Step 2: Place a ball between the obstacles and a player behind the ball facing the target net.

Step 3: Choose a turn; l-turns are excellent for this drill, and let the player start with the first turn while avoiding the obstacles.

Step 4: The player must repeat the turn until they clear the obstacles in both directions.

Step 5: After clearing the turns, the player must make a low pass into the target net.

Step 6: Repeat the above steps for more reps, or retrieve the ball and swap out the player.

7. Single-Leg Weave

The single-leg weave is a simple drill focusing on ball control while defending.

As a midfielder, keeping control of the ball in vulnerable positions may be the difference between winning and losing a game.

For this exercise, you need to line up between 6 to 10 cones in a straight line, and if you want to add a pass, you can add a target net.

The drill starts with the player using their outside foot to control the ball between the cones about half a yard apart.

Once the player reaches the end of the cones, they need to turn around and use the other foot to repeat the exercise to the other end.

If you have a target net, the player can do a pass of your liking into a net about 20 yards away.

You can use this video below to help.

Benefits

This drill is excellent for:

• Teaching your midfield players how to defend while keeping possession from an attacker on their side. 
• Practicing control
• Adding a pass at the end of the drill can extend the benefits.

Walk-Through

Step 1: Place a line of cones about 0.5 yards apart; anywhere between 6 to 10 cones should work. You can also set up a target net 20 yards away.

Step 2: Start the drill and let your player use one foot to dribble through the cones while keeping possession.

Step 3: At the end of the line, the player must turn and dribble back while keeping possession.

Step 4: (Optional) The player can also make a pass to the target net after returning.

Step 5: Retrieve the ball, repeat the drill, or cycle through all the players, adding challenges if needed.

To improve a players dribbling ability, check out my recommendations for the Best Soccer Dribbling Drills.

8. Sharks and Minnows

Based on a well-known game, this drill creates a limited field where players can move.

First, you need to choose one or two players to be the sharks in the middle of the field.

While the sharks stand in the middle of the field, you can use a whistle or signal to start the round, where the Minnows need to try to get to the other side.

If a player cannot reach the other side, they will be added to the middle as a shark until only one person remains.

The criteria for becoming a shark can change depending on the skill level, and while some people use tagging to add a shark, others have to remove the Minnows’ ball or take full possession of it.

Benefits

The benefits of using this drill are twofold:

• Midfielders will have to exercise ball control to be able to keep the ball while also attempting to be fast enough not to get caught.
• It will allow your midfield players to get used to keeping their eyes on the ball and the other players simultaneously, a crucial part of being a midfielder.

I find this is also an excellent drill for kids and youth soccer players who love using fun games to improve their skills. If you often train with young players, check out my list of 9 Fun (and Effective) Youth Soccer Drills For Kids.

Walk-Through

Step 1: Create a limited area where players can operate using cones, poles, or something else. A good example would be 38 yards in length by 22 yards wide.

Step 2: Choose one or two sharks and place them in a line in the middle of the playable area.

Step 3: Line up the remaining players or “minnows” on one of the sides of the field and give each one a ball.

Step 4: Start the round by giving a signal and have the “minnows” attempt to run past the sharks while keeping possession of their balls.

Step 5: The round stops when the players get eliminated or get to the other side and any players that didn’t make it now move to the middle and become sharks.

Step 6: Repeat the last two steps until only one player remains as a “minnow.”

Step 7: (Optional) Increase the difficulty of the drill by creating challenges for the “minnows.”

Next Steps

Whether you are training with one player or the whole team, the drills mentioned above are a great way to train your midfielders or almost any other player.

Mastering these drills will ensure your players are agile, have good reflexes, understand directional control, and are comfortable keeping possession and passing when needed.

To take a midfielder’s skills to the next level, however, there are more drills that can aid a player’s training.

• How to Run Faster in Soccer: Drills, Tips, and Techniques
• 10 Best Defensive Soccer Drills (Great for All Ages)
• 8 Soccer Attacking Drills: Improve Your Chance of Winning
• 7 Most Effective Soccer Drills for High School Players

If you are looking for effective defending drills for you or your team, then I’ve got you covered.

In this article, I’m going to show you my ten favorite defensive soccer drills and take you through each one step-by-step to ensure you get the most out of them.

These drills are selected after years of experience and are ideal for giving you a structured format for improving your defensive capabilities and those of your team.

List of Defensive Soccer Drills

When you are running through soccer drills for defense, there are several areas you want to focus on.

I’ve done my best to cover these areas in this list of drills below.

A well-rounded approach will almost guarantee you make the best and most productive use of your time.

The most effective defensive soccer drills are:

1. Headed clearance and dribbling drill
2. One Vs One drill
3. Reaction and mental sharpness drill
4. Positioning and movement drill
5. Footwork drill
6. Blocking and interception drill
7. Tracking the opposition drill
8. Control and Passing drill
9. Passing from the back drill
10. Gameplay drill

(Click on one of the links above to jump to the step-by-step guide for each drill.)

Each of these drills will work well for any age group. Youth teams, U8, U12, or adult teams will all benefit.

You can also have a look at my article – 10 Best Soccer Drills for Beginners – A Step by Step Guide – if you’re working with beginners.

Read on for an explanation of how each drill is laid out and what equipment you’ll need before I take you through a step-by-step guide to each individual drill.

How Each Defensive Drill is Laid Out

To make it simple to understand, I’ve started each drill with a brief overview of what is involved and the equipment you’ll need.

Then I’ve given you a video or image of the drill so you can visualize it, followed by a step-by-step run-through of how the drill works.

Equipment You Need for the Drills

Before we look at the drills, I just want to mention one more thing.

You will need two pieces of equipment for most drills – a soccer ball and cones.

If you are short of balls or cones, Amazon has a wide selection of options, and I recommend you check out these options for balls or these cones.

Now, let’s look at the ten best defensive soccer drills!

1. Headed Clearance and Dribbling Drill

Heading a soccer ball correctly and effectively is essential to any defender’s skill set.

The correct technique is important if you don’t want to hurt yourself in the process. I explained in detail how to do that in my article – How to Head a Soccer Ball (so it doesn’t hurt!) – if you want to check it out.

If you are using this drill as a youth soccer coach, make sure the kids you are working with are OK to head the ball before using this drill, as some may be too young.

If your players are OK with using their heads, then you want your team to take advantage of this opportunity.

Aim of the drill

The aim of this drill is to improve a player’s heading ability when they are in a defensive position.

Practicing scenarios a player will face in an actual game situation is a helpful way of using drills.

This drill replicates the situation where the ball needs heading out from defense.

Equipment Requirements

For this drill, you will need two soccer balls and three cones.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough of the Heading Drill

Step 1 – Set up the drill

Place all three cones in a line approximately two yards apart.

Step 2 – Player and coach positions

A player will start by standing at the center cone, directly facing the coach, who will be standing five yards away from the player.

The coach will have two balls, one in their hands and one at their feet.

Step 3 – The player starts moving

At the coach’s “ready,” the player will make a sprint to touch the ball in the coach’s hand and then shuffle back to their mark.

Once back, the coach will then toss the ball in the air toward the player, who will perform an effective and accurate defensive header away.

The coach will immediately pass the second ball into the player’s feet to control and dribble from the center cone to either side of their choosing. The player will then dribble around the cone in a 360-degree motion.

Once back in the center, the player makes a pass back to the coach.

Step 4 – Repeat 

For the drill to be a success, the coach should repeat the drill at least five times and increase the intensity after each rep.

Check out this video below for another great defensive header drill.

This is a great drill to use with high school students. And if you do have a responsibility to coach this age range, I recommend checking out my article – 7 Most Effective Soccer Drills for High School Players

2. One Vs One Drill

Practicing one v one drills is important as players will often face these situations during a game.

Knowing how to negotiate them effectively will give the players an advantage when faced with this scenario.

Aim of the drill

This drill will allow the player to combine all the fundamental steps in defending, such as ball pressure, blocking, tracking back, interception, footwork, and physicality.

Equipment Requirements

The drill is easy to set up.

It requires a ball, two players – one attacking, one defending – four (4) cones, and four (4) discs.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1 – Set up the drill

Place the four (4) cones in a grid 20×10.

The four (4) discs will make up two goals on either end of the grid. (Picture a smaller version of a soccer field)

Step 2 – Player Position

The defending player will start with the ball at his feet between two cones at one end of the grid.

The offensive player will start between the two discs at the opposite end of the playing area.

Step 3 – Begin the drill

The defensive player will pass the ball to the attacker.

As soon as the ball has left the feet of the defender, the offensive player can come out to meet the ball.

As soon as the attacker touches the ball, the defender will demonstrate applying pressure by closing down on the attacker as quickly as possible.

Step 4 – Continue the drill

The attacker then makes a play for the goal (the discs on either side of the grid).

At this point, the job of the defender is to prevent the attacker from making a successful dribble past the defender and scoring a goal.

The defender should use skills such as blocking, ball pressure, tracking back, interception, and showing physicality in the play (getting close to the player and unbalancing them without fouling the player).

Once the ball goes out of the area marked by the cones, the drill starts again from the beginning.

This video also has some great tips on how to defend one-on-one.

3. Reaction and Mental Sharpness Drill

In order to play soccer at the highest level, a player must have fast reaction times and be able to recognize and anticipate situations quickly.  

Keeping a focused mind will make a player more likely to perform well on the field, train hard, and prepare for games. 

Using drills that work on this area of a player’s ability is vital as it is important to have good technical execution of those skills. 

Aim of the drill

This drill will enhance the player’s ability to react quickly to opposing attackers.

Also, it will seek to test their mental sharpness as the drill will be timed for thirty seconds non-stop, where the players are required to follow the coach’s instructions. 

Equipment Requirements

For this drill, you will need four (4) different colored cones, discs, or poles

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1 – Set up the drill

The coach will need four (4) different cones, discs, or poles to form a 5×5 grid. 

It is important to note that four different colors should be utilized when making the grid. 

Step 2 – Player position

The player should begin the drill by standing in the center of the grid.

Step 3 – Coach issues instructions

The coach will issue instructions as to which poles the player should touch. The idea is that the player should run to touch one of the four poles and then quickly run back to the center. 

Step 4 – Continue the drill

The instructions will be repeated at a varying pace over a 30-second period. The objective is to touch each base on instruction correctly while moving as fast as possible.

4. Positioning and Movement Drill

As a defender, one critical skill is to be able to get into position quickly.

Positioning entails tracking the attacker’s movements as they carry the ball toward the goal, accounting for any sprint or driving action toward the goal, and positioning yourself appropriately to eliminate the threat.

This is key in determining when to intercept passes or make a defensive play.

This drill seeks to improve a defensive player’s ability to move quickly while maintaining a defensive stance.

Because of the importance of this skill, this is an ideal drill to use with youth soccer teams that are learning the game and developing habits.

But works well at any age.

Aim of the drill

There are several takeaways from this drill:

• It sharpens a player’s movement, 
• It challenges a player to move quickly,
• It challenges a player to move accurately,
• It improves a player’s ability to run backward

Equipment Requirements

For this drill, you will only need six cones

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1 – Set up the drill

Place five (5) cones in the shape of a cross.

This means three (3) cones are placed vertically while the other two cones run horizontally in line with the center cone. Each should be placed five steps from the center cone. 

Step 2 – Player Position

The player will start at the top of the cross-shape drill in a defensive stance.

Step 3 – Begin the drill

• The player will shuffle back toward the center cone (moving hands and feet while crouching).
• Once at the center, the player will shuffle to the left or right, back to the center, and then move to the other side.
• Once both sides are completed from the center cone, the player will continue the movement to the final cone at the end of the cross shape.
• Once at the last cone, the player will sprint back to the top of the cross shape or the starting cone.

Step 4 – Repeat as required

This completes one full rep, but the drill can be repeated as many times as appropriate.

The player should attempt to avoid touching the cones and start the drill from the beginning if they touch the cones.

If you are looking for recommendations for drills for other players on the field, check out my article regarding the top 8 drills for midfielders for more inspiration.

5. Footwork Drill

While several technical skills are needed to become a great soccer player, footwork is one of the most important.

Good footwork is necessary for the player to control the ball in all situations, from running to dribbling.

Proper footwork allows players to respond to their opponents and control the ball at speed. Learning how to control the ball with ease and grace is essential as a player.

It can also help to control the ball and touch it around the goalkeeper for a winning goal.

Aim of the drill

For this drill, players will look to improve footwork while moving at speed.

The key thing to look at is the player’s reaction time.

The drill can be done simultaneously in groups or individually.

Equipment Requirements

The coach will need six(6) discs or cones for this drill.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1 – Set up the drill

The coach will need six (6) discs. Four of the discs must be of the same color.

The coach will select a marked or unmarked area to start while placing the first four (4) discs horizontally, with each two (2) steps apart.

The fifth (5) disc will be placed five (5) steps away from the fourth, and the sixth (6th) disc will be placed seven steps away from the fifth(5th) – all on the same straight line. 

Step 2 – Player position

The player(s) will have to line up a short distance from the first cone.

Step 3 – Begin the drill

The player(s) should make a short sprint toward the first cone.

Upon reaching the first disc, the player will do a complete 360 around the disc in a shuffle motion – rapidly moving hands and feet while going around the disc.

After completing the 360 shuffles around the disc, the player will sprint to the other three cones of the same color and repeat the shuffle motion. 

Step 4 – Continue the drill

Once the player(s) reaches the fourth, moving to the fifth, the player will make a sharp sprint to the fifth disc.

They should stop in a defensive stance for three (3) seconds, then sprint to the sixth and final disc as hard as possible.

Step 5 – Repeat the drill

The player will return to the start and go again, repeating all the steps.

Each set completed equates to a full rep. 

Check out this video below for more drills that will improve your footwork with the ball.

For more soccer drills to improve your footwork, check out my article – 10 Soccer Ball Control and Footwork Drills (For All Ages)

6. Blocking and Interception Drill

In soccer, it is important to be aware of where your opponents are and where the ball is on the field. This way, you have a better chance of blocking or intercepting the ball when it comes near you.

Sometimes, interception is as easy as moving into the gap between the player and the ball. (This is more challenging if the ball is far away). Sometimes it requires quick movement and a stretch of the leg.

Either way, blocking and interception can make all the difference in a game as your teams retake possession of the ball and potentially prevent the opposition from scoring a goal.

Aim of the drill

This drill will aid the players’ ability to block or limit their opponents’ movements successfully.

After successfully mastering the art of anticipation, the coach will introduce a ball so that players can simulate a real game situation. 

The key here is to have the player block on the ‘inside’ – somewhere between the two points of the discs – in an effort to protect the goal. 

Equipment Requirements

• Two discs
• One cone

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1 – Set up the drill

This drill requires a cone and two discs to make a triangle – the cone will form the point of the triangle, which is the starting point of the drill.

Essentially, the cone represents the goal. Two different color discs will serve as the base of the triangle.

Place them five meters apart to form the base of the triangle.

Step 2 – Player Position

The players will begin at the starting point (cone).

The coach will guide the player(s) through the drill by calling out which color disc the player should move to in a defensive blocking motion. 

This will be a timed drill of thirty seconds per rep. In other words, the players are expected to move quickly to each disc when the color is called out and then back to the cone after imitating a blocking motion. 

Step 3 – Begin the drill

The first runs of the drill are done without the ball, and the next steps are to incorporate the ball.

The coach will repeat the same instructions, and the player is expected to repeat the actions.

Once the player reaches a disc, they pass toward the player, who performs a blocking motion by intercepting the pass.

The player will pass back the ball, and the drill will continue to run for thirty seconds per rep.

Step 4 – Optimize the drill

The key to making the drill effective is randomly calling the colors and gauging the player’s ability to react quickly toward making a block to protect the goal.

This video below is great for understanding more about how to intercept the ball during a game.

If you’re a coach at any level, I recommend also checking out my article –

10 Best Soccer Coaching Drills: Perfect for Practice Sessions.

7. Tracking the Ball Drill

As a defender, following the opposition players and the ball is essential to prevent your team from conceding a goal.

If the defender gets distracted for a moment or loses sight of their opponent, they will fail at one of their most important jobs.

Aim of the drill

The aim of this drill is to give a player confidence in their ability to track a ball in their zone of the field.

Equipment Requirements

The setup for this drill requires four (4) discs or cones and a ball.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1 – Set up the drill

Place each cone in a grid of 12×12

Step 2 – Player positions

The player will stand on one side of the grid, and the coach will stand on the other, facing the player.

The player can be on the right or left side of the grid, with the cones as the starting point. It doesn’t matter which side they start on.

Step 3 – Begin the drill

As soon as the coach shouts, “begin,” the player sprints to one of the cones on either side of them and touches it with their hand.

As the player sprints toward the cone, the coach will roll the ball down the inside of the grid toward the opposite cone.

The player is expected to make a sharp turn around the cone and run across the grid, tracking the ball and intercepting it before it reaches the cone on the other side.

Step 4 – Repeat the drill

The drill should be repeated at least ten times.

This video also gives more ideas on how to teach your players to track their opponents effectively.

8. Control and Passing Drill

Controlling the ball and passing it is a fundamental aspect of soccer play. At a minimum, players in all positions should have an understanding of controlled passing.

The drill involves different aspects of controlled passing and can entail two players or a single player and the coach.

Aim of the drill

This drill aims to improve players’ ability to control and pass the ball during a game.

Equipment Requirements

This drill requires only a ball and two players.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1 – Set up the drill

Two players will face each other while standing five steps apart.

The first rep of this defensive drill will entail a combination of left-foot and left-foot passes only, right-foot and right-foot passes, and then a mixture of left-foot and right-foot passes.

One rep is equated to 30 seconds on each leg for all stages of the drill.

Step 2 – Begin the first rep of the drill

First, the two players will pass the ball between them using only their left feet. They will control the ball before passing it back to the opposite player.

Next, they will control and pass the ball using their right foot and then use a mixture of left-foot and right-foot passes.

Step 3 – Next Rep

For the next rep, the ball will be lobbed, and the player is expected to control it with the left or right thigh and then make a pass with the corresponding foot – 30 seconds for the left and right side.

Step 4 – Next Rep

For the next step, the ball will be lobbed toward the chest. The player is expected to control the ball with the chest and make a pass with the right or left foot for 30 seconds.

Step 5 – Final Rep

For the next step, the ball will be lobbed toward the head. The player is expected to use his head to pass the ball for 30 seconds.

Each rep will be 30 seconds. 

Completion of all reps/stages equates to one set.

In this video, you will also find some more passing and receiving drills you can incorporate into your training sessions.

I find this is a great drill to help youth players become comfortable with the ball. Check out my article – 9 Fun (and Effective) Youth Soccer Drills For Kids – if you work with this age range.

9. Passing from the Back Drill

Modern-day defensive players are not just required to be robust and intimidating.

They must also possess the ability to stay calm under pressure and make accurate passes from the back of the field when they have possession of the ball.

Passing accurately helps the team maintain possession of the ball, start a counterattack, and potentially create scoring opportunities for their team.

Aim of the drill

To increase a player’s confidence and ability to pass the ball from the back of the field successfully.

Equipment Requirements

For this drill, one will need three (3) discs, four (4) cones, and a minimum of six (6) balls.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1 – Set up the drill

Place the discs in an inverted triangle, with the players starting at the point of the triangle.

Use the cones to form a grid.

Two of the cones will be in line with the base of the triangle 30×15. Meaning the cones will create two points on either side of the discs.

The other two cones will be placed on the opposite end to complete the grid. 

Step 2 – Begin the drill

The coach will instruct the player to make sharp passes.

The coach will stand at one of the cones in line with the two discs. For example, he stands at the cone to the left with a ball, ready to make a play.

From the starting point, the player will run toward the coach, standing at the cone toward the left.

The coach will make a pass to the player. 

The player is expected to pass the ball back immediately to the coach and run toward the center of the two discs. 

Step 3 – Next stage of the drill

At the center of the discs, the player will receive another pass and make a sharp turn toward the left.

At this point, the player is expected to make a quick pass with the aim of hitting the cone to the left. 

Ideally, the play can be made from either the left or the right.

The key is for the player to move quickly and make short passes accurately.

Step 4 – Change up the drill

Once the short pass is mastered, the goal is to make long passes using the same movements.

The player will aim to hit the cones at either side’s top of the grid.

The video below shows more examples of how to play out from the back.

Playing out from the back is the perfect way to start an attack on the opposition’s goal. Check out my article – 10 Soccer Attacking Drills: Improve Your Chance of Winning – for more drills to improve your team in this area.

10. Gameplay Drill

This is a simulation of game situations that the defender will more likely come across.

Training with real game scenarios is a great way for players to get used to what they need to do during a game.

Aim of the drill

The aim of this drill is to give a defender the opportunity to experience a real game situation and become confident in dealing with the situation before them.

Equipment Requirements

Either the penalty area of a soccer field or four discs and two cones. You will also need a few soccer balls.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1 – Set up the drill

It is ideal to utilize the 18-yard box with a goal in place; if not, a grid of 20×30 will have to be set up with a goal structure at the base of the grid.

Step 2 – Positions for the drill

The coach will stand at the penalty spot with a ball in his hand, and the defender will start by standing on the goal line.

Step 3 – Begin the drill

The player will sprint to the ball and touch it. 

The player will then backpedal to the goal line.

Step 4 – Continue with the next phase of the drill

The coach will then lob the ball while the player is backpedaling, and the defender will do his best to head the ball away from the goal.

Essentially, the ball is being lobbed toward the goal, and the defender is expected to make a headed clearance.

Step 4 – Last phase of the drill

Once cleared, the player must sprint past the coach to receive a pass that he plays through a gate at the edge of the D. 

The player will then sprint through the gate in a 180-degree motion, where he is expected to turn and run back toward the penalty spot to perform an attacking header to score a goal.

This header should be made from a lob pass from the coach.

For more drills, check out these list of drills I have put together:

• How to Run Faster in Soccer: Drills, Tips, and Techniques
• 5 Soccer Ball Juggling Drills to Improve Your Skills

Soccer attacking drills are designed to improve a player’s ability to create goal-scoring opportunities and score goals for their team. Regularly practicing attacking drills ensures a soccer team is adequately prepared for the attacking phase of their upcoming games.

In the past, attacking in soccer was heavily dependent on the attacking midfielders and strikers. However, in modern-day soccer, all players and positions are involved in an attacking move.

Each of these drills is applicable to any player on the field.

Let’s look at each of them now.

1. “Control and Turn” Soccer Drill

Attackers must have the ability to control and wiggle their way out of what may become ‘tight spaces,’ which requires close control of the soccer ball and mental readiness.

This drill will increase a player’s ability to quickly control the ball and then move away from the danger in an instant.

Equipment needed: The coach will need ball(s) and three(3) different color cones/plates/discs/or poles (markers).

If you need some cones, I recommend these from Amazon.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Control and Turn Drill

1. Set up the markers in a triangular shape, with each marker five (5) yards apart. Each marker should be a different color.
2. The player should stand in the center of the triangle facing directly at the triangle’s base.
3. The coach will stand eight (8) to ten (10) yards away directly in front of the player with the ball(s) at their feet, ready to make a pass.
4. The coach will then pass to the player while issuing instructions regarding which direction the player receiving the ball should go.
5. The player in this exercise will look to control the ball and sharply turn toward the color marker that the coach signals.
6. The player should move swiftly as the coach will make the pass/call to him rapidly.
7. The player should dribble the ball around the marker and return to the starting location.
8. Players should perform this exercise in a time sequence of at least 30 to 45 seconds per rep.

2. “Shooting at Goal” Soccer Drill

This drill is geared directly toward any player who is likely to be in a position to score.

Each player will have the opportunity to control the ball, dribble past a marker, and score a goal.

The coach will need to preferably use the entirety of the goal area (the 18-yard box to the goal post) or a makeshift grid similar to the goal area.

Equipment needed: The coach will need ball(s), markers, and a goalkeeper is ideal for this drill.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Soccer Shooting Drill

1. The line of players will begin by standing at the edge of the 18-yard box.
2. Place three markers five (5) meters away from the players running horizontally five (5) meters apart.
3. The coach (or another player) will stand on either side of the 18-yard box or goal area, ready to cross into the attacker.
4. As the ball is crossed into the penalty area, the coach will direct the first player to run to one specific marker.
5. While receiving the pass, the attacker will have to control the ball and dribble past the specified marker.
6. Finally, the player should make an accurate shot on goal, aiming to score.
7. This is a timed drill of 30 to 45 seconds.

If you’re working with players who are new to soccer, you may also be interested in my step-by-step guide to the 10 Best Soccer Drills for Beginners. It will give a great start to players who are only at the beginning of their journey with soccer.

3. “Dribbling Past a Defender” Soccer Drill

Dribbling is a crucial skill for all soccer positions; however, attackers dribble the ball more often than defensive players.

If attackers can become proficient in this area, they will find it easier to beat an opposition player on the field.

Equipment needed: The coach will need eight (8) markers (cones, discs, plates, poles) and ball(s).

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Dribbling Soccer Drill

1. Of the eight cones, place six in a straight line and use the other two to make a gate.
2. The cones will be lined up two (2) steps/paces from each other, and the last cone must be at least six (6) steps/paces away from the gate.
3. The player will start at an imaginary line dribbling (close control of the ball) through the cones in a weaving motion.
4. At the last cone, the player should pass the ball through the gate as accurately as possible.
5. This is a time sequence of 30 to 45 seconds.

4. “Heading at Goal” Soccer Drill

Attackers, or more specifically strikers, are taught to head the ball differently than a defender.

Whereas the defender learns to head the ball up and away in a clearance motion, the attacker focuses on heading the ball down towards the goal in an attempt to score (see my guide to heading a soccer ball without it hurting).

Equipment needed: two(2) or more balls will be required, and the player can be assisted by the coach or other players. The drill may or may not include a goalkeeper.

Before looking at the step-by-step walkthrough of the drill, check out this video below that gives some great advice on how to head a soccer ball.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Heading Drill

1. The player will first do a standing jump header where the coach will toss the ball upwards, and the player will jump to meet it at an ideal spot to perform an attacking header on goal.
2. This will be a timed sequence of 30 to 45 seconds per rep, where the player will keep heading the ball repeatedly throughout the rep.
3. The next phase of the drill entails running, jumping, and heading the ball downward.
4. The player will start at the edge of the 18-yard box, making various angled runs to head the ball.
5. The ball will be tossed in the air towards the oncoming attacker to make the most accurate attempt on goal.
6. This is another timed sequence of 30 to 45 seconds.
7. Upon completion, the diving header will be introduced. The player will essentially be making similar angled runs, ready to head the ball while leaping forward.
8. The player(s)/coach(es) will toss the balls in so the attacker can perform the appropriate diving header, with the aim being to score a goal.
9. Note if there is a sufficient number of players, you can split them into groups of twos (crossers and attackers). This means the crossers will simply make a run down the flanks and cross the ball, with the attacker’s intent being to perform the three phases of headings.

If you are a coach, you may also be interested in my 10 Best Soccer Coaching Drills: Perfect for Practice Sessions guide. It will give you a drill to cover almost every area you need to focus on while coaching soccer.

5. “One V One” Soccer Drill

A one vs one scenario in soccer is an ideal opportunity to move around the player in front of you and put pressure on the opposition’s defensive line.

This drill will allow the player to combine all the fundamental steps in attacking, such as ball pressure, interception, footwork, and physicality.

The drill is easy to set up.

Equipment needed: a ball, two players – one attacking, one defending – four (4) cones, and four (4) discs.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the One V One Drill

1. Place the four (4) cones in a square grid 20×10.
2. The four (4) discs will make up two goals on either side of the grid. (Picture a smaller version of a soccer field)
3. The attacking player will start with the ball at his feet in the center of the grid.
4. The attacker’s sole intention is to dribble past the defending player.
5. When the attacking player demonstrates an understanding of the play, the coach will then introduce a goal to give a chance to take a shot on target.
6. The second phase of the drill entails both players starting in the center of the grid. The defending player will now begin this phase of the drill by passing the ball to the attacker, who will then make a play for either goal (the discs on either side of the grid) to make a shot on target.

6. “Reaction and Mental Sharpness” Soccer Drill

Reaction speed and mental sharpness are vital attributes for any player.

The quicker a player can make a decision and act on it, the more effective their performance will be on the field. This is why I included it in my explanation of how to be a faster player in soccer.

This drill will enhance the player’s ability to react quickly to defenders. Also, it will seek to test their mental sharpness as the drill will be timed for thirty seconds non-stop, where the players are required to follow the coach’s instructions.

Equipment needed: Four(4) different colored markers.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Reaction and Mental Sharpness Drill

1. The coach will need four (4) different cones, discs, or poles to form a 5×5 grid.
2. It is important to note that four different colors should be utilized when making the grid.
3. The player should begin the drill by standing in the center of the grid.
4. The coach will issue instructions as to which poles the player should touch. The idea is that the player should run to touch one of the four poles and then quickly run back to the center.
5. The coach will repeat each instruction at a varying pace over a 30-second period. The objective is to touch each base on instruction correctly.

This is also a great drill to practice with younger as they will enjoy running back and forth between the different color markers. You may want to use it alongside the list of 9 Fun (and Effective) Youth Soccer Drills For Kids that I put together.

7. “Gameplay” Soccer Drill

This is a simulation of various game situations that the attackers will likely come across.

The better prepared each player is for what they will encounter, the more effectively they are likely to negotiate any situation.

In this drill, a player will undergo a series of challenges to complete one (1) rep. These include control, turn, dribble, passing, shooting, and heading.

Equipment needed: Cones, ball, and coach, or another player, to cross the ball.

Step-by-step Walkthrough of the Gameplay drill

1. The player performing the drill should start on the halfway line of the soccer field.
2. Between the halfway line and the penalty area, the coach should set up five (5) cones (two paces apart) running horizontally ten (10) yards toward the goal.
3. Place the gate diagonally ten meters away from the last cone.
4. To begin, the player will receive a pass with their back to the cones.
5. The player will then turn and dribble (weave) through the cones.
6. At the end of the dribble, the player should make a ten-yard diagonal pass through the gate.
7. The player will then sprint to the 18-yard area to receive a cross.
8. They then finish the drill with an attacking header or shot from the cross.

This drill would also be great for midfielders and could be included alongside the 8 Best Soccer Drills for Midfielders.

8. “Ball Mastery” Soccer Drill

For this drill, attacking players will improve their ability to manipulate the ball to their advantage.

This ability is essential in a game where the players will only have a moment to use the ball effectively and make it count for their team.

Equipment needed: The coach will need various items, namely balls, cones, discs, and poles.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Ball Mastery Drill

1. The coach will set up a grid of 10×10, and the player will stand in the center of the grid.
2. The coach will then pass the ball in the grid, allowing the players to express themselves (keep-ups, step-overs, sole rolls, and anything that promotes their comfort and familiarity with manipulating the ball)
3. At the end of 30 seconds, the player should then pass the ball immediately and directly to the coach x 3
4. The coach will then introduce outer markers of different colors five (5) yards outside the grid in a diamond shape.
5. The coach will pass the ball to the player, signaling them to express themselves within the grid.
6. While doing so, the coach will randomly shout out one of the colored markers. The player must quickly react by dribbling to that specific marker and making a pass to the coach, then sprinting back inside the center of the grid.
7. This is a timed exercise of 30 to 45 seconds per rep.

For more drills focused on improving a player’s footwork, check out my list of 10 Soccer Ball Control and Footwork Drills (For All Ages). You’ll find plenty of options that will significantly impact a player’s performance.

9. “Looped Passing” Soccer Drill

A great attacking team in soccer is also one that knows how to maintain possession of the ball and pass effectively between players.

The looped passing drill helps improve ball control and ball movement while passing between the team. The drill focuses on players’ first touch and the ability to pass the ball quickly and accurately.

Equipment needed: Two(2) cones and a ball.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Looped Passing Drill

1. Put two cones ten yards apart
2. A player is positioned behind each cone
3. The player with the ball goes around the cone, moving the ball with his first touch from the left side to the right
4. Player passes the ball toward his partner with the second touch
5. The passing partner does the same thing, tips the ball with the first touch from left to right, and sends it back with his right foot.
6. After a few minutes, change the direction of the drill.
7. Players now should move the ball from their right side to their left and pass it with their left foot.
8. When without the ball, players should be skipping.

If you work with high school-age students, you may want to add this drill to my list of 7 Most Effective Soccer Drills for High School Players. Improving their passing game can really set them apart from the competition.

10. “Sprints” Soccer Drill

Sprinting is a somewhat overlooked technique; however, in modern soccer, physical speed is a significant asset for most of the best clubs around the world in present-day soccer.

Teams are ultra-attacking, and even in defending, coaches sometimes set up for quick counterattacks where the critical component of sprinting is required.

Equipment needed: For this drill, the coach will need several markers of various colors and types, and balls.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Sprints Drill

1. The first setup will require the coach to place five (5) markers at an increasing distance from a starting mark (i.e., from 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 paces)
2. The players will start five (5) yards from the first marker.
3. At the coach’s instruction, the player will begin a rapid sprint to the first marker, where the player will touch the first cone and then return to the starting location.
4. Straight away, the player will turn around and sprint to touch the second cone, then get back to the starting marker, turn around, and sprint to touch the third cone.
5. Once the player has repeated this for each cone, they will then complete the sprints again from the fifth marker in descending order till complete.

If you are looking for even more drills, I would encourage you to go back through the article and find the links I added to various other drills I have put together.

You may also be interested in my list of 5 Soccer Ball Juggling Drills to Improve Your Skills if you want to work more on your ball control skills.

This is why I have compiled this list of the best ball control and footwork soccer drills that I could find. I’ve laid out a step-by-step guide to how each one works. I’ve also included a video or image of how the drill is set up to help you visualize it.

As a player, when the ball is in your possession, it is essential to have it under control and know what you will do with it. This technique is crucial at all levels of soccer.

If you don’t know how to control the ball properly, you could end up losing possession of the ball quickly and missing out on opportunities for your team to make progress.

To be able to control the ball effectively, a player must possess good footwork as the majority of contact with the ball will be with their feet.

This is why ball control and footwork go together.

And as you work through these drills and improve, your confidence will grow.

So, let’s look at them now and get started with improving your ball control and footwork on the soccer field!

1. “Push and Pull” Soccer Drill

First up, we have the push and pull drill. Push and Pull is a simple but effective training drill.

It is focused on improving players’ touch of the ball with all parts of the foot. This drill has three variations: inner push, outside push, and laces push.

Walkthrough of the “Push and Pull” Soccer Drill

• Stand with the ball at your feet
• Push the ball with your right foot.
• Use the same foot to stop it, and push it back with the sole part.
• Now do the same with your left foot.
• For inner push variation, use the inner part of the foot to push the ball. With outside push use outside part, and for laces push push the ball with top of the foot (with laces).

Have a look at the video below for some examples of the push/pull drill.

Additional instructions to get the most out of this drill:

• Try to fulfil the drill as fast as possible, as this will gradually improve your ball control.
• For more advanced variation, set up a line of cones, and combine Push and Pull when next to a cone, with running with the ball between them. That kind of practice improves both players’ control of the ball at their feet, as well as stopping the ball while in motion.

2. Inside V Cut Soccer Drill

The Inside V Cut drill focuses on improving players’ ability to change direction with the ball.

Moreover, it allows players to practice swift change of play, which is especially useful when pressured by the opposing defenders in a tight space.

After performing this move, the player can run in the other way or pass the ball to his teammate in the opposite direction.

This is an excellent drill to consider using alongside my list of 10 Best Soccer Coaching Drills that are perfect for training sessions.

Walkthrough of the “Inside V Cut” Soccer Drill

• Place one foot on top of the ball.
• Drag the ball back toward you.
• Open up hips and then push the ball with inner part of the same foot in the opposite direction diagonally.
• Stop the ball with the opposite foot.
• Repeat the drill in the reverse direction.

Have a look at the video below for an example of the inside V cut drill.

Additional instructions to get the most out of this drill:

• There are several variations of this drill. It can be performed with the outside part of the foot, which is called Outside V Cut.

If you are looking for a guide on how to pass a soccer ball, check out my post explaining how to pass a soccer ball successfully every time. It even includes tips and techniques for every type of pass.

3. Drag and Inner Push Soccer Drill

This drill focuses on improving players’ ball mastery by making them feel comfortable using the sole and inner part of both feet.

With improvement from practicing this drill, players get better control over the ball in tight spaces.

Walkthrough of the “Drag and Inner Push” Soccer Drill

• Set two cones at about one feet apart.
• Start with the ball positioned outside the right cone.
• Drag the ball toward yourself using the sole of the right foot, slightly hopping back with the opposite foot.
• Push the ball across with your right foot, toward the middle area.
• Stop the ball with the inner part of the left foot, while pushing the ball between cones.
• Place your right foot on top of the ball to stop it.
• Repeat the same process for the second cone.
• After coming to the end, repeat the drill in the opposite direction.

Have a look at the image below for an illustration of the drag and inner push drill.

Additional instructions to get the most out of this drill:

• Start working the drill slowly at first, and after getting into rhythm, do the drill while keeping the head up. This practice will ensure you can control the ball, while paying attention on your surroundings.
• Try not to touch the cones with the ball.

4. Alternate V Cut Soccer Drill

Alternate V Cut is similar to the Inside/Outside V Cut drill but is focused on using both feet simultaneously.

Alternate V Cut helps players to feel comfortable with using both feet.

Walkthrough of the “Alternate V Cut” Soccer Drill

• Place one foot on top of the ball.
• Drag the ball back toward you with the sole of the same foot.
• Open up hips and then push the ball with inner part of the opposite foot in the diagonal direction.
• Stop the ball with the opposite foot.
• Repeat the drill in the reverse direction.

Have a look at the video below for an example of the alternate V-cut drill.

Additional instructions to get the most out of this drill:

• Put a cone in front of you to help you get better orientation and move the ball to cone’s sides. Also, you can add additional cones around you or use some other way to limit the area available for performing V Cuts, and try not to cross it.

5. L Drags Soccer Drill

The L Drags drill is a great way to help players build confidence when they have a ball in their possession. It is also a move that allows you to move the ball away from your opponent easily.

This drill is perfect for feeling more comfortable with the ball.

Players sometimes lose confidence when they have a ball on their weaker foot and feel more comfortable when it is at their dominant foot.

The L Drag not just improves the ball control ability of your weaker foot, but it also allows you to move the ball away from your opponent quickly and then send it to your stronger, dominant foot.

This is another excellent drill to consider using alongside my list of 9 Fun (and Effective) Youth Soccer Drills For Kids. If youth players can master this, they will run rings around the opposition in no time!

Walkthrough of the “L Drags” Soccer Drill

• Place a foot on top of the ball.
• Drag it towards you with same foot, at 45 degrees angle.
• Let it pass behind your standing leg.
• Using the inside part of the same foot, push it 45 degrees in the opposite direction.
• Now use the opposite (standing leg) foot to stop the ball and roll it across to the starting position.

Have a look at the video below for some examples of L drag drills.

Additional instructions to get the most out of this drill:

• Perform the drill for 30 seconds with one foot, and then 30 seconds with the opposite foot.
• If needed, do the L Drag with your weaker foot more often.

6. Brazilian Toe Taps Soccer Drill

Brazilian Toe Taps drill, also known by the name Soccer Dance, is a quick and continuous drill meant to enhance player’s touch and ball control, with both feet equally.

As it allows players to improve their dominant foot, as well as the weaker foot, it is considered as a perfect drill for all-around players.

Walkthrough of the “Brazilian Toe Taps” Soccer Drill

• Place the ball in front of you.
• Do two toe taps on the ball, first with your right, then with your left foot.
• Now place your left foot next to the ball, on the right side
• Bring your right foot behind the left leg and tap the ball with your toes.
• Now perform the drill in the opposite direction: toe tap with left foot, then right, place right foot on the left side, bring left foot from behind and tap the ball.
• Repeat the process in a continuous manner, without stopping.

Have a look at the video below for an example of the Brazilian Toe Tap drill.

Additional instructions to get the most out of this drill:

• Try to keep the ball at the same spot. When first performing Soccer Dance, the ball will often move around and away from you. Keep practicing, and you will be able eventually to practice the drill with keeping the ball at the starting position.
• This drill is a great measurement of player’s ball control improvement.

7. Parallel Rolls Soccer Drill

The Parallel Rolls drill is a great way to work on improving ball rolls, especially when it comes to the accuracy of the rolls.

This drill can sometimes be both physically and mentally challenging. However, while practicing and trying to master it, the Parallel Rolls drill will do wonders for your ball control and confidence.

Walkthrough of the “Parallel Rolls” Soccer Drill

• Place four cones, at a step distance from each other, forming a square.
• Stand in front of two cones.
• Roll the ball across your body with the sole of your right foot.
• Push the ball in front of you with your opposite foot, but outside the cone square.
• Now roll the ball with the sole of your left foot through the middle line of the cone square.
• Push the ball again in front of you and outside the square, now with your right foot.
• Perform another sole roll with right foot, around the last two cones.
• Stop the ball with your left foot.
• Perform the drill in opposite, backward direction, with pulling the ball back, instead of pushing.
• Repeat the drill starting with left foot and in opposite direction.

Have a look at the image below for an example of a Parallel Roll drill.

 Additional instructions to get the most out of this drill:

• This is one of the most intensive ball control drills, which requires a lot of precision while performing. It demands a movement coordination and right amount of force applied with your touches.

8. Number 8 Soccer Drill

Number 8 drill is a sole push and pull drill. This drill is performed with one foot at a time.

It improves players’ balance and coordination while keeping the ball.

Walkthrough of the “Number 8” Soccer Drill

• Place two cones one foot apart.
• Push the ball with the sole of your foot up.
• Go around the cone, while controlling the ball with sole of the same foot.
• Pull the ball back through the middle, between the cones.
• Now push the ball again with sole of your foot, outside and around the second cone.
• Pull the ball again through the middle, forming a number 8 with your moves.
• After coming back to the start, switch your foot and repeat the drill.
• While moving the ball with one foot, you should hop with the other leg.

Have a look at the video below for an example of the Number 8 drill.

Additional instructions to get the most out of this drill:

• You can set up a square of cones, or even a line, and make the drill more difficult.
• Balance is important aspect of this drill. With that in mind, use you second leg and keep hopping, as it will give you more balance and better movement coordination.

9. Roll Stops Soccer Drill

The Roll Stops drill helps players to quickly switch the ball from one foot to the other, which is extremely useful when trying to keep the ball in possession during competitive games.

In addition, the good side of this drill is the fact that it allows players to strengthen both of their feet equally.

This is a really good option to add to my list of 10 Best Soccer Drills for Beginners if you or someone you’re working with is just starting out.

Walkthrough of the “Roll Stops” Soccer Drill

• Start with a ball positioned next to your right foot.
• Now push the ball with the sole part of your right foot, rolling the ball to your left.
• Let the ball pass your right foot.
• Stop the ball with the inner part of your left foot.
• Repeat the drill in the opposite direction.

Have a look at the video below for an example of a roll stop drill.

Additional instructions to get the most out of this drill:

• Place several cones in line, at one yard distance, and practice rolling and stopping the ball between them, while in motion. This is a more advanced version of a drill and will make players get better control while moving with the ball.

10. Drag and Outside Push Soccer Drill

This drill focuses on improving the ball control with the outside part of both feet and the sole part. 

With improving the drill performance, combined with a previous drill, players get better control over the ball in limited space and get used to controlling the ball with one foot at a time.

Walkthrough of the “Drag and Outside Push” Soccer Drill

• Put two cones one foot apart.
• Start with the ball positioned outside the right cone.
• Place your left foot on top of the ball.
• Drag the ball backward with sole.
• Push the ball to the middle with the outside part of the left foot.
• Stop the ball with the inner part of the same foot, slightly pushing it between the cones.
• Stand on the ball with your left foot.
• Repeat the same process for the second cone.
• After coming to the end, repeat the drill in the opposite direction, using your right foot.

Have a look at the video below for some examples of drag and outside push drills.

Additional instructions to get the most out of this drill:

• Practice performing the drill while keeping your head up.
• Slowly increase the speed of performing the drill.
• Try not to touch the cones with the ball.

Each of these drills is designed to improve a player’s ball control and footwork swiftly.

For more options of soccer drills, check out one of my other guides:

• 7 Most Effective Soccer Drills for High School Players
• 5 Soccer Ball Juggling Drills to Improve Your Skills
• 10 Soccer Attacking Drills to Increase Your Teams Chances of Winning

In this article, I’m going to give you 7 soccer drills that are specifically geared toward high school players.

Each one has been tested and shown to be effective for improving a player’s ability on the soccer field. They are also fun soccer drills for the high schoolers involved as well!

All you will need for any of these drills is a field to perform the drills, a selection of soccer balls, and some discs or cones.

If you are short of balls or cones, Amazon has a wide selection of options, and I recommend you check out these options for balls or these cones.

I’ve included a video or image with each drill to show you exactly how each drill is performed. And if, at the end, you need even more drills, I’ve included links to a few more lists of soccer drills I’ve put together.

So, let’s get into it.

Here are my top 7 soccer drills for high school.

1. Speed of Play Drill

The speed-of-play drill is a great warm-up drill with a whole lot of other benefits too.

As high school soccer players use this drill, it helps them improve their passing ability, reaction times, and control of the ball in rushed moments during a soccer game.

Since we’re dealing with high schoolers who are competent at operating at high intensity, they should practice the drill at the maximum difficulty for the best outcomes and improvements in their gameplay.

Let me walk you through it step by step.

Drill Requirements:

Speed of play drill is simple and can be performed with little to no equipment.

However, the following are the basic requirements:

• Multiple squares on the field marked by cones or any other marking method like paint.
• Soccer balls.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1: Set-up

Start by dividing the participants into groups of four. You will need to set up one square with a cone at each corner for each group of four players. Start with a gap of 10 yards between the cones.

Step 2: Player Positions

Have one player stand at the corner of each square. There will be four players for each square.

Step 3: Start the Drill

Allocate one of the players in each group to start with the ball at their feet.

For example, Player 1 starts by passing the ball to Player 2, who will be standing beside the cone next to Player 1; then Player 2 gives it to Player 3; Player 3 passes the ball to Player 4, and Player 4 passes the ball back to Player 1.

The ball must stay outside of the square for the entire drill, and the players can only take two touches of the ball (One to control the ball and one to pass it to the next player).

The first team to pass it around the square of cones three times successfully wins.

Step 4: Vary the requirements of the drill

I really like this drill because there are multiple variations you can use depending on the ability of the players involved or how challenging you want the drill to be for the players.

For example, you can change the passing methods by introducing one-touch passing in this drill and increasing the speed of play. Or allow more touches if the players involved need more practice.

You can also increase or shorten the distance between the cones.

Key Takeaways From This Drill:

There are multiple benefits of this drill.

It helps your players warm up in a fun manner. In addition, warming up shapes your whole training session, as players are less prone to injuries and fatigue if they have warmed up properly.

Secondly, this drill improves passing, ball control, and reaction time.

Encourage the players to “open” their bodies as they receive the ball, ready to pass with their next touch. Check out the video above for more details, or have a look at my article – First Touch in Soccer – for more tips on how to do this well.

This is a fun, productive, and simple soccer drill that high school students can learn and execute!

2. World Cup Drill

After high school players are all warmed up and ready, it’s time for the next drill.

The “World Cup” soccer drill mainly deals with shooting, passing, and teamwork and is great for high schoolers but can also be implemented with players of all age groups.

While it’s fun to be involved with, it also brings a great sense of competition to the players involved. It’s also a great candidate to add to the list of options I put together in my list of the 10 Best Soccer Coaching Drills that are Perfect for Practice Sessions.

Let’s get into it.

Drill Requirements:

The following equipment or requirements must be taken care of for this drill to function properly:

• Large grid on the field with a standard-sized soccer goal at one end.
• Multi-colored training vests/pinnies because we’re dealing with several groups of players here.
• Sufficient supply of soccer balls.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1: Set-up

The drill starts with dividing the participants into several groups/teams. For example, say you had 15 players available; you could divide them up into 5 teams of 3 players.

Assigning each team their favorite country’s name (or choose for them if this will lead to arguments!), as the purpose of the drill is to replicate the ‘World Cup.’

Step 2: Player Positions

Place all the players in the marked area with the goal at one end.

A neutral goalkeeper must be assigned the goal. 

Step 3: Start the Drill

The coach delivers the ball into the playing area, and the aim is for all teams to try and score a goal.

The coach must have sufficient balls available because whenever the ball goes out of play, they should deliver another one into the playing area so that the drill can carry on smoothly without interruptions.

Every time a team scores a goal, they advance to the next round and step out of the current round. The game then continues with the remaining teams.

The last two teams which fail to score the goal get knocked out of the “World Cup.” Similarly, the next round starts, and the drill continues until there are only two teams left.

When only two teams are left at the beginning of a round, the team that scores two goals first wins the tournament.

Step 4: Vary the requirements of the drill

You can vary this drill in several ways, such as increasing the playing area or using a different size goal. Either option may make this drill more challenging for the participants.

Key Takeaways From This Drill:

There are a lot of benefits to using this drill.

At the top of the list, though, is building the gameplay through passing and coordination and then shooting.

When several teams are involved simultaneously, the competition level is high, and space decreases, which makes it more challenging to circulate the ball between the team members and score. Hence, it’s difficult to pass, difficult to score.

But with difficulty comes improvement.

Using the ball effectively in front of the opposition’s goal can be learned through this drill.

3. Circular Cone Drill

In soccer, players can achieve significant results through simple drills that don’t require much protocol. And Circular-Cone drill is one such drill.

In this list of high school soccer drills, I’m aiming to cover the fundamental areas of soccer. Dribbling and ball control is one of these areas, and it is often learned through drills and practice.

A circular cone drill is simple but a great way to enhance your ball control towards perfection, and high school soccer coaches must focus on this area.

For more ball control drills, check out my list of 10 Soccer Ball Control and Footwork Drills (For All Ages).

Drill Requirements:

• As the name suggests, you’re going to need several cones/discs. Depending upon how big a circle is.
• It’s a solo drill, so each player can perform this drill alone.
• A standard-sized soccer ball.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1: Set-up

The drill starts with placing the training cones/discs in a circle.

You can decide on the size of the circle, but I would aim for a 2-yard gap between cones to begin with. And a diameter of around 15 yards.

Step 2: Player Positions

One player will be given the ball and start beside a cone anywhere on the circle.

Step 3: Start the Drill

When instructed to begin, the player will dribble between the cones and complete the circle.

You may want them to complete the circle just once before another player begins or up to 5 times consecutively.

Step 4: Vary the requirements of the drill

To make it challenging for the player performing the drill, there are many ways to intensify this drill.

One way is to enlarge the circle and add in more cones or discs.

When you start, try to place cones a bit distant. Then, after every round of the circle is completed, begin decreasing the distance among the cones to make it difficult for the player to control the ball at their feet.

You can also add a twist to this drill by introducing a 20-30 meter sprint or a jumping ladder after every round of circular-cone is completed.

In this manner, this drill can also be used as a warm-up and dribbling practice, both at the same time.

Simple but productive!

Key Takeaways From This Drill:

Good ball composure and control, along with excellent dribbling ability, are great for any high school soccer player’s game.

It’s just as important for a player to work on their footwork as it is to learn how to defend, shoot and attack. With every round, this drill gets more complex, and the learning increases.

If players stick with this drill and keep practicing, eventually, excellent ball control will be instilled in their subconscious, and you will see a massive improvement in their performances in tight spaces in real match situations.

This drill can also be a great way to warm up before moving on to more complex training drills. For this, I recommend performing circular-cone drills in lighter mode at the start of training sessions. 

This drill is also great as another option to add to the list of the 10 Best Soccer Drills for Beginners.

4. Overlapping Runs Drill

Learning the overlapping runs is necessary for a player’s skill development in soccer. In addition, it increases the understanding among the teammates and provides another option during attacking plays.

This technique is useful, mainly in counterattacks, but it also helps significantly in tight spaces during the attacking build-up. It’s also a great option to add to my list of the best 10 Soccer Attacking Drills.

There are multiple ways to perform this drill with different intensity levels.

As we’re dealing with the high schoolers here, it’s okay to put some pressure and intensity on them. So I’ll show you an advanced level of this drill.

So, here’s how the overlapping runs drill can be executed!

Drill Requirements:

When it comes to requirements in this drill, the following necessities are required:

• A soccer field with goals at either end, not necessarily standard-sized. You can opt for a smaller area also.
• A soccer ball.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1: Set-up for the drill

To perform the overlapping runs drill, divide your players/trainees into two teams, and organize each team in a 3-1-3 formation with a goalkeeper at the back.

Step 2: Start the Drill

The drill starts with the goalkeeper playing the ball from the back. When one team has the ball, the other team tries to man-mark and make ball circulation difficult but not steal the ball away.

Step 3:

The goalkeeper passes the ball to the lone midfielder in the middle, and the midfielder passes it to the left-winger in the attack.

While the winger receives the ball, the corresponding full-back makes the overlapping run as the winger is man-marked. The winger then passes the ball to the rushing full-back, who takes the ball forward.

This cycle continues on either flank until the other end of the field is reached.

Step 4: Vary the requirements of the drill

Once a team has practiced both flanks for overlapping runs, it’s time for the other team, as the first team now man-marks the attacking side.

It’s not necessary to use the 3-1-3 formation. Other formations like 4-2-4 or 2-1-2 can also be used, depending upon the number of available participants.

The core idea is to train players to make over-lapping runs around their man-marked teammates while the holding midfielder distributes the ball.

Key Takeaways From This Drill:

The key takeaways from this drill are crystal clear: overlapping runs are a great way to shake down any defense.

Practicing this drill will make your players aware of each other’s positions and improve teamwork.

Overlapping runs also complement our next drill, which is all about learning positional soccer.

For drills specifically designed for midfielders, check out my list of the 8 Best Soccer Drills for Midfielders.

5. The 6-Second Rule Drill

If you’ve been a soccer fan for a while, you would know the quality of soccer Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona team played between 2008 and 2012.

We can’t cover Pep’s genius tactical approach here in such a short span. But here’s a little sneak peek of it.

Pep introduced a 6-second rule which ensured fluent ball circulation throughout the team. That’s why Barca had everyone on edge back then.

They took the ball, passed the ball, and repeated the process.

Great lessons can be taught to high school soccer players by focusing on this aspect of the game.

I will guide you step by step through how you can integrate this golden principle in your team with a training drill and make them play in a style difficult to anticipate by opponents!

Drill Requirements:

The requirements vary, but this drill is not a complex one, so all you’re going to need is a ball, a group of players, and a field to practice on.

Mark an area on the field so that the drill can be carried out with discipline.

The ball must not go outside the area!

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1: Set-up and aim of the drill

Divide your players into two teams. The drill will be carried out in the form of a soccer game but without goals.

The aim is to win the ball back in 6 seconds after you’ve lost it.

This will all come down to pressing and positional play. This way, the idea of suffocating your opponent’s ball circulation by excellent pressing and eventually winning the ball back will be instilled in your trainees.

When the opponents don’t have the ball, they can’t score. Hence there is no danger if you keep the ball.

Step 2: Start the Drill

Once either team has lost the ball, the goal is for them to win it back within 6 seconds.

Whichever team manages to win the ball back within 6 seconds 5 times wins the drill.

An organized and positional press comes in handy here.

Step 4: Vary the requirements of the drill

To make the drill more intense for the high school students, you can increase the duration of play, decrease the marked area, or increase the number of times you have to win the ball back to win the drill!

Key Takeaways From This Drill:

Players can learn a lot through this drill. The essence of positional play lies here, which is one of the most beautiful and highly proven concepts of soccer.

Remember this famous Blaugrana phrase:

“Take the ball, Pass the ball.” 

There’s another side of the picture, also. Not only does this drill teach players to press, but it also allows them to learn ball circulation under a high press.

6. Dribble-Sprint-Dribble Soccer Drill

Staying fit or getting in shape for soccer is critical for any player, including high school students.

When a player’s fitness levels are higher, they perform better in every area of the soccer field. They also enjoy the game more.

If you’re working with a high school soccer team should focus on their player’s fitness.

During a game, players perform multiple short sprints. Their fitness training should reflect this.

Drill Requirements:

You will only need basic equipment for this drill.

• A soccer ball,
• and three cones or a soccer field.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1 – Positioning.

For this drill, players start on the sideline of the soccer field with the ball at their feet.

If you don’t have access to a soccer field, any field or flat surface around 50 yards wide will do.

Use two cones to mark the spots 50 yards from each other and then one more cone at the halfway point between the two.

Step 2 – Run to the halfway point.

Have the players dribble the ball as fast as they can toward the halfway point of the field.

They then leave the ball and sprint as fast as they can to the opposite touchline.

Step 3 – Touch, turn and return.

At the 2nd sideline, the players should touch the floor with one hand.

After this, they should turn around as quickly as possible and sprint back to the ball.

Step 4 – Dribble back.

When they get back to the ball, the player should dribble back to where they started as quickly as possible.

Step 5 – Rest and repeat

When back at the start, allow the players a minute to catch their breath and then repeat the drill.

Do this five times in a row or as many times as you feel is appropriate for the high school students involved.

As a player’s fitness improves, you may wish to repeat the drill consecutively more than five times in one go.

Key Takeaways From This Drill:

This specific drill aims to increase high school soccer players’ anaerobic fitness.

In a soccer game, players mostly use anaerobic energy rather than aerobic.

I’ve talked about this difference in my articles about long-distance running for soccer players and cycling for soccer players.

The great part about working on this area of a player’s game is that it should improve every area of their performance on the field.

A player’s fitness levels determine how long they can keep playing, how quick, and how effective they are with the ball.

7. The 7 vs 7 Drill

This last drill includes a real-time 7 vs 7 soccer game with all the standard rules and regulations applied.

We have covered all the primary soccer areas until now in previous drills. Now, we will test every area of soccer training here.

Conducting this drill-like game at the end of a training session will revise all the core ideas learned in a practical way.

Drill Requirements:

The essential equipment that you need is as follows:

• Training vests/pinnies because we will be making teams here.
• A standard-sized goal and soccer pitch, since high school students can take on the challenge of playing on a standard-sized pitch.
• A game-sized, standard soccer ball.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1: Set-up

It’s all about a complete soccer match. Divide the high school players into two teams. The number of players on each team can vary. It doesn’t have to be a 7 vs 7 match.

Similarly, the size of the field can also vary.

Step 2: Length of game

However, the game must be at least 20 minutes each half for a better learning experience.

You must take into account that we’re holding this drill at the end of the training session, so it doesn’t have to be intense.

Longer halves mean more intensity.

Step 3: Use all the standard rules

All standard soccer rules like offside, penalties, and free kicks apply here. Since we’re aiming for a realistic match experience, count in the standard fouls also.

Key Takeaways From This Drill:

Why do we train? For realistic experiences, right? That’s what your trainees need and why this drill is important.

There are countless benefits of this drill. It doesn’t only help high school soccer players to implement the methods they learned in precise training drills before. It also gives them the joy and sense of competition in a real-time soccer game.

From passing, defending, attacking, and shooting to teamwork, chemistry, and techniques, everything is covered here.

For more soccer drills, check out one of the other lists I’ve put together.

• 9 Fun (and Effective) Youth Soccer Drills For Kids
• 5 Soccer Ball Juggling Drills to Improve Your Skills

To make life a little easier for you, I’ve compiled a list of soccer drills for kids that will cover all the main areas of soccer that youth players should focus on.

Soccer should be fun for them at this stage, so we need to ensure every drill is fun. 

Remember, we’re dealing with kids here. The more enjoyable it is for the player the more effort they’ll put into training and the longer they’ll play the game.

The List of Soccer Drills For Kids

Implementing these drills in youth soccer training sessions should help players improve their skills and abilities.

These drills will give players the solid foundation they need to go on and develop into even better players.

The best soccer drills for kids are:

1. The “PAC Man” drill
2. The “Gated Passing” drill
3. The “Ouch” drill
4. Duck Tails
5. Fill and Empty the Basket
6. Shark and Minnows
7. The “5 Goals” drill
8. Simon Says
9. and “Dribble-sprint-Dribble“

(Click on one of the above links to jump straight to a step-by-step guide to each drill.)

Next, I’ll explain how to lay out each drill and what equipment you’ll need, and then I’ll take you through each drill step-by-step.

If, after reading this, you want more helpful tips on training youth, I recommend you check out my post – How to coach Youth Soccer.

How Each Kid’s Soccer Drill Is Laid Out

To help you understand how each drill works, I’ve compiled a step-by-step process for setting up and running the drill.

Each section also has an image or video displaying how the drill works.

Take the time to go through these drills, understand what they are asking the kids to do, and get out there and start using them in training sessions.

You’ll be amazed at how much your youth team will improve.

Equipment Needed for the Drills

Just before we look at the drills, you will notice that you need two pieces of equipment for most of them:

• A soccer ball and cones.

Getting hold of good-quality soccer balls is much better than settling for poor ones. The lower-quality ones are usually less comfortable for kicking and need replacing more often.

I recommend the Adidas Capitano soccer ball as it’s a great ball for youth and looks fantastic as well!

You can check it out on Amazon here.

Also, consider checking out these cones on Amazon. There are a lot of poor-quality cones out there, but these should last a long time.

Now, let’s get on with what you’re here for…Nine of the best soccer drills for kids!

1. The “PAC Man” Drill

First things first, warmup drills are crucial for players of any age as they prevent injuries and help you enjoy the beautiful game longer.

So I’ll start with a fantastic warmup drill named ‘Pac Man.’

It’s based on the classic arcade game, and hopefully, you’ll understand why once I describe it. 

Remember, this is a warmup drill, so it shouldn’t be intense.

The kids will get into a rhythm while having fun. This will also help them prepare for the training drills ahead. 

Requirements: 

• You will need a marked section on a field that the youth players shouldn’t leave during the drill. 
• You will need multiple soccer balls, depending on the number of kids playing. 

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1: Set-up

Two players start with the ball on the edge of the grid. All other players start inside the grid.

You can call the players with the balls the “Pac men.”

Step 2: – The aim of the game

The “Pac men” try to hit the other kids with the ball below their knees.

The other kids aim to prevent themselves from being hit with the ball by moving around inside the marked area.

Step 3: More players become “PAC Men”

When a ball makes contact with a player, they also become a Pac man. Then they collect a ball from outside the area and join in. 

As the number of Pac Men increases on the field, the drill becomes challenging and more fun, and the last kid without the ball wins the drill. 

This drill is similar to the Rondo, a fun practice you’ll often see in the training videos of top clubs. 

You can involve as many or as few kids as you like in this drill. Just vary the size of the area depending on the number of players involved.

Key Takeaways:

There are several takeaways from this drill:

• It warms up the players. 
• It provides practice in hitting the target, 
• Improves ball trickery and faking passes
• It improves decision-making, 
• sharpens a player’s movement, 
• and hones your kid’s instincts

But its primary goal is still the same: to use aerobic activity to get the youth players into a rhythm for the remainder of the training session. 

Make sure not to make it intense.

There is no need to conduct multiple rounds of the ‘Pac-Man’ drill. You’re only using it as a warmup exercise. 

2. The “Gated Passing” Drill

The gated passing drill is another excellent drill for the warmup as part of the training session and a great soccer passing drill for kids.

It’s perfect for developing short passing and ball-receiving skills as it improves pass accuracy and allows players to enhance their ball control with their first touch.

This is especially important for youth.

Requirements: 

• You will need a section of a field at least 10 yards wide. 
• You will need one soccer ball for every two kids involved in the drill. 

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1: Drill set-up

Set two cones about 1 yard apart to form a “gate.”

Put another set of cones on the ground about 5 yards from the first two. (refer to the image above for clarity)

Step 2: Player position

Position players behind each set of cones so that two players are facing each other

Step 3: Pass the ball

Players pass the ball back and forth, trying to send each pass right through the center of the gate in front of them.

It is essential to let the ball pass through the gate each time.

You can choose whether you allow the players to perform the drill with one or two touches of the ball. But, again, consider the players’ ability when you make this decision.

Additional instructions and key takeaways:

• The player should constantly be on their toes without the ball, transferring weight from one foot to another. This constant movement improves players’ agility and helps them stay focused and prepared to receive the ball.
• A player can receive the ball with the sole or inner part of their cleats. If performed with the sole area, they should try to keep their leg straight and stop the ball with the tip of the shoe. If performed with the inner part, the player should position the receiving foot slightly above the ground.
• The player should position the receiving foot close to the ball. If the standing leg is a bit far from the ball, it can affect the passing accuracy and put them off balance.
• Body balance is critical. Encourage the kids to keep their bodies straight when passing. Leaning back with your torso during passing can lift the ball and reduce the precision of the pass.
• Players should always try to keep their heads up and follow the position of their passing partner. Developing this habit from an early age is vital for players’ later development. It improves the player’s positioning and area awareness.

This is also a great option to add to the list of the best soccer drills for high school if you spend any time working with high school-age soccer players.

If you are looking for a guide on passing a soccer ball, check out my post explaining how to pass a soccer ball successfully every time. It even includes tips and techniques for every type of pass.

3. The “OUCH” Drill

Soccer drills for kids should cover all the essential areas of the game.

We discussed warmup drills, so now let’s talk about a drill that will help kids improve their aim and shooting. Ensuring they are having loads of fun along the way, of course!

This drill is named ‘Ouch!’. Sounds exciting, right?

There’s a reason behind this unusual name. In this drill, the aim for the kids is to hit the coach with the ball!

Every time the ball hits the coach, the coach has to yell, ‘Ouch!’. This creates an element of enjoyment for the kids participating.

It also works really well with young kids and I included it in my list of the 8 Best Soccer Drills For Kindergarten Kids.

Requirements:

There isn’t much equipment required except a few balls.

But here are a few things that you should keep in mind while practicing this drill: 

• Every kid involved should have a ball. 
• Define the grid area according to the age of the kids involved. If they are under 5, opt for a smaller space. Similarly, if they’re a bit older, you can increase the area to make it challenging for them. 
• The coach must not make it difficult for the kids to hit them by moving too fast, as it will kill the enjoyment. While playing with under 5s or 8s, let them hit you regularly to make the kids feel accomplished. This should increase their engagement. 

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1: Define the area

First and foremost, you need to define the grid area, either in rectangular or circular form. The coach can choose based on what works best in the environment the drill is being used.

Step 2: Start the drill

Next, give each kid their own ball in the grid.

The coach or designated player should start jogging around within the marked area between the players. Once the coach shouts “begin,” the kids try and kick the ball toward the coach to hit them below the knee.

Step 3: Collect points

Each time a kid hits the target man, they get one point, and the player with the most points at the end of a given time steals the show!

There are no hard and fast rules for this exciting drill, but make sure the target and the players never go outside the defined areas. 

Key Takeaways:

Now you know the drill, let’s talk about how it will improve your kid’s game.

As you can see, this drill deals with shooting and controlling the ball while on the run.

Using this drill will significantly enhance your kid’s ability to improvise and hit their target in different situations.

That may be when passing to a teammate or hitting the back of the goal net. It will surely help them in their future soccer journey. 

4. “Duck Tails” Drill

“Duck Tails” is another drill that kids love to play.

It involves players running around within a defined area, trying to take the “tail” from one of their opponents—all the while keeping control of the ball at your feet.

If you’ve ever played flag football, you will understand the challenge of grabbing something from another player while they are running past you at full speed.

But that’s also what makes this so enjoyable for kids!

Requirements:

• Set up an area of approximately 20 yards x 20 yards. You can vary the size depending on how many players are involved.
• Each player needs a soccer ball.
• Each player will need a “tail.” This can be a pinny, a jersey, or any other piece of material you have available.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1: Set up the area and players

Use cones to set up a square around 20 yards x 20 yards. All the players start within this box and cannot leave.

Each player begins with a ball at their feet and a “tail” in the back of their shorts. Ensure the “tail” is out far enough that others can grab it!

Step 2: Start the drill.

At the coach’s command, the players start dribbling their ball around the box while trying to take a “tail” from an opponent.

Each player must keep the ball close to them and always under control.

Step 3: Players are out

When players lose their “tail,” or their ball leaves the box, they are out and must step out of the drill. Players shouldn’t try to tackle other players and must concentrate on their own ball.

Step 4: Time and winner

Play this drill in short bursts. One minute at a time should be enough.

At the end of the time, the players still in the game are the winners. However, you can add an extra level of competitiveness by declaring the player with the most “tails” the overall winner.

Key Takeaways

Duck Tails is an excellent drill for improving youth players’ ball control under pressure.

Not only do they have to focus on what they are doing with the ball, but they have to be aware of what is happening around them.

They could be out of the game if they lose focus for just a few seconds!

5. Fill and Empty the Basket

Kids love to run, but it becomes highly engaging and exciting for them when you add a spice of competition to it.

So I have a drill just like that!

Fill and empty the bucket is essentially a set of two drills that focus on your kid’s dribbling and ball control skills when under pressure. 

It’s a simple, efficient, and fun way to help young people develop the necessary ball skills. This drill is excellent for U6, up to U10 age-level players, and I’ve included similar drills in my list of soccer drills for 10-year-olds.

Let’s go through this drill briefly so you can know how this works!

For more ball control drills, check out my 10 Soccer Ball Control and Footwork Drills (For All Ages).

Requirements:

You’re going to need the following few essentials:

• You will need to define a rectangular area, keeping its size relevant to the age group of kids participating. 
• You’ll need multiple cones to create a basket in that area. 
• One ball per player is required to execute this drill effectively. 

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

As we mentioned earlier, it’s basically a set of two drills. So let’s formulate a guide for each first!

The first step is to fill the basket. 

Split the youth players into two teams, with a minimum of four players on each team. Give each player a ball.

Ask half the team to stand on one side of the rectangle and the others on the opposite side.

The task is to dribble these balls from the edge of the area and drop them off in the basket as fast as possible.

Whichever team fills the basket first wins the drill. 

Here’s the second part. 

The participants then have to empty the basket. It’s essentially the complete opposite of “Filling the basket.”

Once the teams have filled the baskets, both teams have to empty the marked basket and take the balls back home, which was the starting point in the first place.

The team that empties their basket fastest is the ultimate winner. 

Step 1 – Set up the drill. 

You will need to set up two small squares using a cone for each corner approximately 10 yards from each other. The box should be big enough to contain four soccer balls.

15 yards from with side of the boxes, mark the player’s starting point.

Step 2 – Position of the players

Split eight players into two teams of four. Have two players stand at each starting point.

Each player starts with a ball at their feet.

Step 3 – Dribble the ball.

One player from each team begins by dribbling the ball from the starting mark toward the box in the center. They then leave the ball in the central box and sprint to the starting mark at the opposite end of the area.

When they get to their teammates, the next player begins dribbling the ball back toward the box in the center.

Step 4 – Collect the ball.

Once all the balls are in the central box, the players perform the drill in reverse.

One player sprints to the box containing the soccer balls and dribbles the ball back to the starting point, whereas the next player sprints to the box and dribbles their ball back.

The first team to complete the drill is the winner.

Key takeaways:

There are many positives from this drill to take away.

One of the most evident ones is the joy it brings! But let’s also look at the learning part.

This practice instills the sense of competition and excitement of coming out victorious in your child.

From a sporting and technical point of view, it’s a great way to learn ball mastery through ball control. Sooner or later, they will experience rushed moments in a soccer game.

This drill will come in handy in such situations. 

6. Shark and Minnows

I try to cover all possible game development areas in these specific drills and make the learning fun.

The next drill on the list is “Shark and Minnows.” An interesting and famous one, with loads of sporting benefits. This might be the most exciting drill on the list. 

Let me show you how it works!

Requirements:

Following are the few protocols that you should require and follow while practicing this drill with a youth team:

• First and foremost, mark a rectangular area on the field where you practice. And divide that into three equal parts. You can also differentiate the three divisions with discs or cones to make it easier for the participants. 
• Players can do this drill without the balls, but it’s more fun using a ball. So, you’re going to need multiple balls for this drill. 

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1: Name the characters

We will be naming characters in this drill. First, two kids will be sharks, operating in the middle of the three divisions of a rectangular field. Then, around 6 or 8 kids will be Minnows, who will start the drill from either end of the marked area. 

Step 2: Start the drill.

Here comes the fun part, the minnows will start from one end of the area. Their goal is to get to the other side without losing the ball.

The sharks, operating in the middle of the field, will try to steal the ball away and not let the minnows pass them with the ball. 

Step 3: Minnows become sharks

Every time a minnow loses the ball to the shark, they become the shark and start trying to steal the ball away from the remaining minnows.

The winner will be the last minnow standing. 

Key Takeaways:

A great drill for both offensive and defensive gameplay; this is the closest we get to real match situations in defensive and offensive terms.

The sharks deal with the defensive duties, and the minnows execute the offensive responsibilities. 

This drill teaches ball composure and how to operate in tight spaces while leading the attack in real life.

At the same time, defensive development integrates with the attack.

7. The “Five Goals” Drill

This drill is perfect for helping kids to learn teamwork!

It involves holding a quick soccer game with slightly adapted rules to make it fun for the kids involved.

It will bring a lot of value to the kids, but make sure you conduct this match in a lighter mode, keeping in mind that we’re still dealing with young players. 

This is also a great drill to teach kids about Youth Soccer Positions.

Here’s how it’s done!

Requirements:

• Define a rectangular area like a soccer field. Make sure to make it shorter or longer according to the kids’ skill level and age. 
• Get two small goal nets and place them as goals, as on an actual pitch. 
• Divide the kids into two teams.
• This drill involves only one ball. 

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1: Define the area.

The drill will carry on like any soccer game, but there are a few changes. First, the teams can score in either of the two goal nets on the field.

Second, the reason why it’s called a ‘5 goal’ drill is that whichever team scores five goals first wins. 

Step 2: Start the drill.

One team starts with a kick-off, the same way that every soccer game starts. Teams should work together to score a goal at either end of the field.

Step 3: Winning team scores five goals

This drill aims to score five goals first, but you can also set different scoring objectives. There are no hard and fast rules.

It all depends on the participants; if they are under 5’s, you can start with the aim of 3 goals also and move up from there gradually. 

Check out the ideal soccer rules for kids in my article – Youth Soccer Rules (For every age group).

Key Takeaways:

The best part of this drill is that it teaches teamwork, and soccer is all about the team. But there are other factors too.

It deals with all the essential skills that any young player needs to develop because both teams are attacking and defending simultaneously. 

• They’re shooting; 
• They’re defending the ball, 
• They’re passing, 
• They’re dribbling in tight spaces; 

You can see all these elements in the ‘5 goals’ drill. 

It also brings kids closer to the pleasure of playing soccer as it is played and helps them experience the game feeling. This will make them love the game even more.

It will also increase their dedication to the game and training sessions. 

In most scenarios, choose this practice at the end of the training day, so kids can implement what they’ve learned practically.

8. Simon Says

This drill is a popular one and is used in other sports, too.

It is the well-known game ‘Simon Says,’ In this context, we will deal with its soccer application. 

In soccer or any other sport, following the coach’s command, carefully listening to the game plan, and executing it is important.

Because soccer is played more with the mind and the feet, this specific drill will teach your kid a lot about sticking to the game plan and following the coach’s instructions.

Here’s how: 

Requirements:

• Like the drills before, you will need a marked area on the field, whether with cones or discs, whatever is suitable given the circumstances. Again keep the size of this marked area resonating with the age group of the participants. Larger for older ones, smaller for younger ones! 
• Once you’ve marked it, you’ll need a ball for each player involved. 

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1: Define the area.

Mark an area on the field that the players must stay within.

Give each player inside the marked area a ball.

Step 2: Start giving instructions.

Start giving instructions by saying, “Simon Says.”

These instructions can be anything like:

• “Simon says, “Perform a stepover,”
• “Simon says, “Move Around,” 
• “Simon says, “Dribble left,” 
• or “Simon says, “Dribble Right.” 

There are no set criteria. These instructions can be subjective to the capabilities and skills of the kid performing. 

Step 3: Watch the response

The fun part is yet to come.

The kids only have to follow the instructions when the coach says the slang ‘Simon Says.’

Try to trick kids by not saying “Simon Says” before the set of instructions.

Whenever someone fails to follow the coach’s instructions, they leave the game. The last kid standing wins the drill. 

Key Takeaways:

As we emphasized before on following the coach’s words and game plan, this drill will make your kid a good listener and executor of the instructions.

This will significantly help the participant in a real game environment.

Other positives include improved dribbling capabilities and improved ball control. 

9. The “Dribble-Sprint-Dribble” Drill

Staying fit or getting in shape for soccer is critical for any player, including kids.

When players’ fitness levels are higher, they perform better in every area of the soccer field and enjoy the game more.

A youth soccer coach should focus on their player’s fitness but be careful to keep the drills fun! This is why I also included this drill in my list of the 10 Best Soccer Coaching Drills.

During a game, players perform multiple short sprints. Their fitness training should reflect this.

Requirements

The equipment needed for this drill is fairly straightforward.

• A ball,
• three cones, or a soccer field.

Step-By-Step Walkthrough of the Drill:

Step 1 – Positioning the players.

For this drill, youth players start on the sideline of the soccer field. They should have the ball at their feet.

If you don’t have access to a soccer field, any field or flat surface around 50 yards wide will do for this drill.

Just use two cones to mark the spots 50 yards from each other and then one more cone at the halfway point between the two.

Step 2 – Run halfway.

Have the players dribble as fast as they can toward the halfway point of the field.

They should then leave the ball and sprint as fast as they can to the opposite touchline.

Step 3 – Touch, turn and run.

At the 2nd touchline, the players should touch the line with their hand. After this, they should turn around quickly and sprint back to where they left the ball.

Step 4 – Dribble back.

When they return to the ball, the player should dribble back to where they started as quickly as possible.

Step 5 – Rest and repeat

When back at the start, allow the players 1 minute to catch their breath and then repeat the drill.

Do this five times in a row or as many times as you feel is appropriate for the kids you’re working with.

As a player’s fitness improves, you may wish to repeat the drill consecutively more than five times in one go.

Key Takeaways

This specific drill aims to increase kids’ anaerobic fitness.

In a soccer game, players mostly use anaerobic energy rather than aerobic. I’ve discussed this difference in my articles about long-distance running for soccer players and cycling for soccer players.

The beauty of working on this area of a player’s game is that it should improve every area of their performance on the field.

A player’s fitness levels determine how long they can keep playing, how quick they are to the ball, and how effective they are with the ball.

Kids will love doing the work as long as it’s fun for them. 

It’s the secret ingredient for keeping your child involved and engaged in soccer on their way to becoming a professional athlete one day.

If you focus, all these drills involve skill development in all the crucial areas of soccer. That’s called being productive while enjoying your time! 

For more helpful soccer info, check out one of my previous articles:

• How to Juggle a Soccer Ball in 10 Easy Steps
• 10 Soccer Attacking Drills to Increase Your Team’s Chances of Winning
• The 10 Best Soccer Drills for Beginners
• Youth Soccer Field Size and Dimensions