FA age phase: Foundation Phase (5-11) · FA match format from 2026/27: 5v5 · What does this mean?
Drills · U8-U9
U8-U9 football drills
68 drills suitable for U8-U9, grouped by skill, each with a diagram, set-up, step-by-step instructions, coaching points, progressions, timings, player numbers and equipment.
Time: 8 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (20m × 20m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Dribble across the river using the bridges (gates).
A troll stands on one bridge.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Find the free bridge.
Speed up after the bridge.
Head up.
Make it harder: Two trolls. Make it easier: No troll.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Find the free bridge; Speed up after the bridge; Head up.
Make it harder: Two trolls. Make it easier: No troll
Dribbling10 min1+ playersTeam or solo
Turn and Burn
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession
What you need
Players: 1+ players
Space: 15m × 8m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 10 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (15m × 8m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Dribble to a cone, turn (drag-back, inside hook, outside hook) and accelerate back.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Slow into the turn.
Accelerate out.
Different turn each time.
Make it harder: Add a walking-pace defender. Make it easier: Only one turn type.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Slow into the turn; Accelerate out; Different turn each time.
Make it harder: Add a walking-pace defender. Make it easier: Only one turn type
Dribbling8 min1+ playersTeam or solo
Futsal Sole Skills
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession
What you need
Players: 1+ players
Space: 6m × 6m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 8 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (6m × 6m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Sole drag, roll and stop combinations in a 3x3m square.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Light sole touches.
Head up.
Use both feet.
Make it harder: Add a walking-pace defender. Make it easier: Fewer moves.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Light sole touches; Head up; Both feet.
Make it harder: Add a walking-pace defender. Make it easier: Fewer moves
Shooting
Shooting10 min1+ playersTeam or solo
Target Kicks
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession
What you need
Players: 1+ players
Space: 6m × 5m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 10 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (6m × 5m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Kick through a 1m cone gate from 3-5m.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Hit the target first.
Aim low and across the goalkeeper.
Use both feet.
Take your first touch into space, not under your feet.
Make it harder: Limit touches, then add a walking-pace then an active defender. Make it easier: Take the defender away or allow extra touches.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Hit the target first; low and across the keeper; Show once, then let them play; Both feet; first touch out of your feet.
Make it harder: Limit touches, then add a walking-pace then an active defender.. Make it easier: Take the defender away or allow extra touches.
Shooting12 min4+ playersTeam
Shooting Gallery
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession
What you need
Players: 4+ players
Space: 16m × 12m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 12 minutes: 3 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (16m × 12m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Queue, dribble, shoot at targets.
Points per corner.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Hit the target first.
Aim low and across the goalkeeper.
Use both feet.
Take your first touch into space, not under your feet.
Make it harder: Limit touches, then add a walking-pace then an active defender. Make it easier: Take the defender away or allow extra touches.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Hit the target first; low and across the keeper; Show once, then let them play; Both feet; first touch out of your feet.
Make it harder: Limit touches, then add a walking-pace then an active defender.. Make it easier: Take the defender away or allow extra touches.
Shooting10 min1+ playersSolo
Wall Strike Accuracy
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession
What you need
Players: 1+ players
Space: 8m × 12m, marked with cones
Equipment: a wall, a ball each
Time: 10 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (8m × 12m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Strike at taped targets on a wall from 10m.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Hit the target first.
Aim low and across the goalkeeper.
Use both feet.
Take your first touch into space, not under your feet.
Make it harder: Limit touches, then add a walking-pace then an active defender. Make it easier: Take the defender away or allow extra touches.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Hit the target first; low and across the keeper; Show once, then let them play; Both feet; first touch out of your feet.
Make it harder: Limit touches, then add a walking-pace then an active defender.. Make it easier: Take the defender away or allow extra touches.
Shooting12 min4+ playersTeam
Zone Shooting
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession
What you need
Players: 4+ players
Space: 20m × 16m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 12 minutes: 3 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (20m × 16m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Shoot from three zones: close = 1, middle = 2, long = 3 points.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Plant foot next to ball.
Hit the target first.
Follow in.
Make it harder: Add a defender. Make it easier: Close zone only.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Plant foot next to ball; Hit the target first; Follow in.
Make it harder: Add a defender. Make it easier: Close zone only
Shooting8 min3+ playersTeam
Through the Goalie Legs
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession
What you need
Players: 3+ players
Space: 16m × 12m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 8 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (16m × 12m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Shoot low to score.
Keeper encourages low saves.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Low shots.
Side-foot.
Pick a corner.
Make it harder: Shoot from further. Make it easier: Closer.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Low shots; Side-foot; Pick a corner.
Make it harder: Shoot from further. Make it easier: Closer
Defending
Defending8 min2+ playersTeam
Close the Door
Corner: Technical/TacticalOut of possession
What you need
Players: 2+ players
Space: 8m × 12m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 8 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (8m × 12m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Coach rolls a ball to the attacker.
Defender runs to '. Close the door'. By standing in front of the gate before the attacker dribbles through.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Run quickly to the door.
Stop and get low before you arrive.
Arms out for balance.
Make it harder: Attacker can choose one of two gates. Make it easier: Defender starts closer.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Run quickly to the door; Stop and get low before you arrive; Arms out for balance.
Make it harder: Attacker can choose one of two gates. Make it easier: Defender starts closer
Defending10 min2+ playersTeam
Jockey Lanes
Corner: Technical/TacticalOut of possession
What you need
Players: 2+ players
Space: 4m × 15m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 10 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (4m × 15m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Attacker dribbles down a 4m lane.
Defender jockeys backwards and tries to win the ball before the end.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Side-on body shape.
Don't dive in.
Win it when the touch is heavy.
Make it harder: Lane widens to 6m. Make it easier: Attacker walks.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Side-on body shape; Don't dive in; Win it when the touch is heavy.
Make it harder: Lane widens to 6m. Make it easier: Attacker walks
Defending10 min2+ playersTeam
Tackle Box 1v1
Corner: Technical/TacticalOut of possessionPractice type: Matched-up
What you need
Players: 2+ players
Space: 8m × 8m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 10 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (8m × 8m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
1v1 in a 8x8 box: defender wins and dribbles out of any side to score.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Low and patient.
Tackle with the inside of the foot.
Counter quickly.
Make it harder: Add a second attacker. Make it easier: Defender only needs to touch the ball.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Low and patient; Tackle with the inside of the foot; Counter quickly.
Make it harder: Add a second attacker. Make it easier: Defender only needs to touch the ball
Defending12 min3+ playersTeam
Recovery Run Race
Corner: Technical/TacticalOut of possession
What you need
Players: 3+ players
Space: 15m × 25m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 12 minutes: 3 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (15m × 25m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Attacker dribbles to goal.
Defender starts 3m behind and must recover goal-side before the shot.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Sprint the inside line.
Get goal-side then slow.
Block the shot.
Make it harder: Defender starts further back. Make it easier: Attacker has to stop at a cone first.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Sprint the inside line; Get goal-side then slow; Block the shot.
Make it harder: Defender starts further back. Make it easier: Attacker has to stop at a cone first
Defending6 min2+ playersTeam
Bubble Shield
Corner: Technical/TacticalOut of possession
What you need
Players: 2+ players
Space: 10m × 10m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 6 minutes: 1 round of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (10m × 10m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Pairs: one protects the ball in a bubble (hoop/cone circle).
Partner tries to touch it gently.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Body between partner and ball.
Arms for balance.
Turn away.
Make it harder: Bigger bubble. Make it easier: Partner walks.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Body between partner and ball; Arms for balance; Turn away.
Make it harder: Bigger bubble. Make it easier: Partner walks
Goalkeeping
Goalkeeping12 min2+ playersTeam
GK Handling Ladder
Corner: Technical/TacticalOut of possession
What you need
Players: 2+ players
Space: 16m × 12m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 12 minutes: 3 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (16m × 12m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Server 8m out: basket, W-catch, low scoop.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Get set before the shot. Hands behind the ball. Move towards the ball.
Use both feet.
Take your first touch into space, not under your feet.
Make it harder: Limit touches, then add a walking-pace then an active defender. Make it easier: Take the defender away or allow extra touches.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Set position, hands behind the ball, attack the ball; Show once, then let them play; Both feet; first touch out of your feet.
Make it harder: Limit touches, then add a walking-pace then an active defender.. Make it easier: Take the defender away or allow extra touches.
Goalkeeping8 min1+ playersSolo
GK Footwork & Set Position
Corner: Technical/TacticalOut of possession
What you need
Players: 1+ players
Space: 16m × 12m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 8 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (16m × 12m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Shuffle across the goal, set feet on cue.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Get set before the shot. Hands behind the ball. Move towards the ball.
Everyone moving, lots of touches.
Start easy, then build up the effort.
Make it harder: Add a ball each or shrink the space. Make it easier: Make the area bigger. Walk it through first.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Set position, hands behind the ball, attack the ball; Lots of touches, everyone moving; Build effort bit by bit.
Make it harder: Add a ball each or shrink the space.. Make it easier: Make the area bigger; walk it through first.
Goalkeeping10 min2+ playersTeam
GK Diving from Knees
Corner: Technical/TacticalOut of possession
What you need
Players: 2+ players
Space: 16m × 12m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 10 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (16m × 12m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Kneeling start, low dives onto soft ground.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Get set before the shot. Hands behind the ball. Move towards the ball.
Use both feet.
Take your first touch into space, not under your feet.
Make it harder: Limit touches, then add a walking-pace then an active defender. Make it easier: Take the defender away or allow extra touches.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Set position, hands behind the ball, attack the ball; Show once, then let them play; Both feet; first touch out of your feet.
Make it harder: Limit touches, then add a walking-pace then an active defender.. Make it easier: Take the defender away or allow extra touches.
Goalkeeping8 min3+ playersTeam
Gatekeeper
Corner: Technical/TacticalOut of possession
What you need
Players: 3+ players
Space: 16m × 12m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 8 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (16m × 12m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
One child is the gatekeeper with hands.
Others roll or pass through a 3m goal.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Hands ready like a W.
Get behind the ball.
Hug it in.
Make it harder: Shots from further back. Make it easier: Rolled balls only.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Hands ready like a W; Get behind the ball; Hug it in.
Make it harder: Shots from further back. Make it easier: Rolled balls only
Goalkeeping10 min2+ playersTeam
Keeper Wars
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn and out of possession
What you need
Players: 2+ players
Space: 16m × 12m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 10 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (16m × 12m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Two goals 12m apart.
Keepers throw/roll to score past each other.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Set position before the shot.
Body behind the ball.
Quick distribution.
Make it harder: Volleys allowed (U10+). Make it easier: Rolled only.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Set position before the shot; Body behind the ball; Quick distribution.
Make it harder: Volleys allowed (U10+). Make it easier: Rolled only
Goalkeeping6 min4+ playersTeam
Keeper Catch Game
Corner: Technical/TacticalOut of possession
What you need
Players: 4+ players
Space: 10m × 10m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 6 minutes: 1 round of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (10m × 10m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Players throw soft balls to each other.
Catch with '. W'. Hands and '. Basket'. Hands.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
W hands.
Watch the ball in.
Hug it.
Make it harder: Bounce passes. Make it easier: Bigger ball.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: W hands; Watch the ball in; Hug it.
Make it harder: Bounce passes. Make it easier: Bigger ball
Small-sided games
Small-sided games12 min6+ playersTeam
Sharks and Minnows
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possession
What you need
Players: 6+ players
Space: 20m × 15m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 12 minutes: 3 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (20m × 15m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Minnows dribble end to end.
Sharks knock balls out.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Keep touches small. Change speed and direction. Keep your head up.
Let the game do the teaching.
Only stop the game now and then. Ask questions rather than giving answers.
Make it harder: Add a condition (2-touch, target), or change numbers (overload/underload). Make it easier: Add a floating player to help the team in possession.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Small touches, change pace and direction, eyes up; Let the game be the teacher; Freeze only now and then and ask questions.
Make it harder: Add a condition (2-touch, target), or change numbers (overload/underload).. Make it easier: Add a floating player to help the team in possession.
Small-sided games15 min2+ playersTeam
1v1 to End Line
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possessionPractice type: Matched-up
What you need
Players: 2+ players
Space: 10m × 20m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 15 minutes: 3 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (10m × 20m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Attacker scores by stopping the ball on the end line.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Keep touches small. Change speed and direction. Keep your head up.
Let the game do the teaching.
Only stop the game now and then. Ask questions rather than giving answers.
Make it harder: Add a condition (2-touch, target), or change numbers (overload/underload). Make it easier: Add a floating player to help the team in possession.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Small touches, change pace and direction, eyes up; Let the game be the teacher; Freeze only now and then and ask questions.
Make it harder: Add a condition (2-touch, target), or change numbers (overload/underload).. Make it easier: Add a floating player to help the team in possession.
Small-sided games12 min4+ playersTeam
Defend the Gates 2v2
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possession · Transition
What you need
Players: 4+ players
Space: 20m × 15m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 12 minutes: 3 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (20m × 15m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Score by dribbling through either gate.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Get to the attacker quickly. Slow down as you get close. Stand side-on. Stay on your feet.
Let the game do the teaching.
Only stop the game now and then. Ask questions rather than giving answers.
Make it harder: Add a condition (2-touch, target), or change numbers (overload/underload). Make it easier: Add a floating player to help the team in possession.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Close down fast, slow down late, side-on, stay on your feet; Let the game be the teacher; Freeze only now and then and ask questions.
Make it harder: Add a condition (2-touch, target), or change numbers (overload/underload).. Make it easier: Add a floating player to help the team in possession.
Small-sided games18 min6+ playersTeam
3v3 Mini Match
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possessionPractice type: Matched-up
What you need
Players: 6+ players
Space: 20m × 15m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 18 minutes: 4 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (20m × 15m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
20x15m, pop-up goals, rolling subs.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Stand side-on so you can see more. Pass to your team-mate's far foot. Get the speed of the pass right.
Let the game do the teaching.
Only stop the game now and then. Ask questions rather than giving answers.
Make it harder: Add a condition (2-touch, target), or change numbers (overload/underload). Make it easier: Add a floating player to help the team in possession.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Open body, pass to the far foot, weight of pass; Let the game be the teacher; Freeze only now and then and ask questions.
Make it harder: Add a condition (2-touch, target), or change numbers (overload/underload).. Make it easier: Add a floating player to help the team in possession.
Small-sided games15 min8+ playersTeam
4v4 Match
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possessionPractice type: Matched-up
What you need
Players: 8+ players
Space: 30m × 20m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 15 minutes: 3 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (30m × 20m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
30x20m, small goals, everyone attacks and defends.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Stand side-on so you can see more. Pass to your team-mate's far foot. Get the speed of the pass right.
Let the game do the teaching.
Only stop the game now and then. Ask questions rather than giving answers.
Make it harder: Add a condition (2-touch, target), or change numbers (overload/underload). Make it easier: Add a floating player to help the team in possession.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Open body, pass to the far foot, weight of pass; Let the game be the teacher; Freeze only now and then and ask questions.
Make it harder: Add a condition (2-touch, target), or change numbers (overload/underload).. Make it easier: Add a floating player to help the team in possession.
Small-sided games10 min6+ playersTeam
Stuck in the Mud
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possession
What you need
Players: 6+ players
Space: 20m × 15m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 10 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (20m × 15m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Taggers chase dribblers.
Tagged players freeze with ball overhead until a team-mate dribbles through their legs.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Keep touches small. Change speed and direction. Keep your head up.
Let the game do the teaching.
Only stop the game now and then. Ask questions rather than giving answers.
Make it harder: Add a condition (2-touch, target), or change numbers (overload/underload). Make it easier: Add a floating player to help the team in possession.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Small touches, change pace and direction, eyes up; Let the game be the teacher; Freeze only now and then and ask questions.
Make it harder: Add a condition (2-touch, target), or change numbers (overload/underload).. Make it easier: Add a floating player to help the team in possession.
Small-sided games10 min4+ playersTeam
Score in the Gates
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possession
What you need
Players: 4+ players
Space: 20m × 20m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 10 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (20m × 20m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Dribble through as many colour gates as you can in 60 seconds.
Coach calls a colour to change targets.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Keep touches small. Change speed and direction. Keep your head up.
Let the game do the teaching.
Only stop the game now and then. Ask questions rather than giving answers.
Make it harder: Add a condition (2-touch, target), or change numbers (overload/underload). Make it easier: Add a floating player to help the team in possession.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Small touches, change pace and direction, eyes up; Let the game be the teacher; Freeze only now and then and ask questions.
Make it harder: Add a condition (2-touch, target), or change numbers (overload/underload).. Make it easier: Add a floating player to help the team in possession.
Small-sided games10 min4+ playersTeam
Pirate Goals
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possessionPractice type: Matched-up
What you need
Players: 4+ players
Space: 20m × 15m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 10 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (20m × 15m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
2v2 or 3v3 to mini goals.
Every goal earns a gold coin cone.
No goalkeepers, everyone shoots.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Hit the target first.
Aim low and across the goalkeeper.
Let the game do the teaching.
Only stop the game now and then. Ask questions rather than giving answers.
Make it harder: Add a condition (2-touch, target), or change numbers (overload/underload). Make it easier: Add a floating player to help the team in possession.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Hit the target first; low and across the keeper; Let the game be the teacher; Freeze only now and then and ask questions.
Make it harder: Add a condition (2-touch, target), or change numbers (overload/underload).. Make it easier: Add a floating player to help the team in possession.
Small-sided games8 min6+ playersTeam
Dinosaur Eggs
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possession · Transition
What you need
Players: 6+ players
Space: 15m × 15m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 8 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (15m × 15m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Dinosaurs guard eggs (balls) in a nest.
Egg collectors try to dribble one out.
Dinosaurs win an egg back by putting a foot on it.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Stay between the egg and the nest.
Small steps when close.
Foot on the ball, no pushing.
Make it harder: Collectors must dribble out through a gate. Make it easier: Dinosaurs walk only.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Stay between the egg and the nest; Small steps when close; Foot on the ball, no pushing.
Make it harder: Collectors must dribble out through a gate. Make it easier: Dinosaurs walk only
Small-sided games10 min6+ playersTeam
Robbers and Police
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possession
What you need
Players: 6+ players
Space: 20m × 15m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 10 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (20m × 15m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Robbers dribble balls from the bank to their house.
Police win balls back and return them to the bank.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Chase then slow down.
Poke the ball away with the toe.
Get back up quickly.
Make it harder: Police get a point for each ball won. Make it easier: More police.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Chase then slow down; Poke the ball away with the toe; Get back up quickly.
Make it harder: Police get a point for each ball won. Make it easier: More police
Small-sided games10 min6+ playersTeam
Pop-up Goal Frenzy
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possession
What you need
Players: 6+ players
Space: 20m × 15m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 10 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (20m × 15m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Four pop-up goals, two teams.
Score in any goal, no keepers.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Look up for an empty goal.
Laces or side foot.
Follow your shot.
Make it harder: Only score in a goal the coach calls. Make it easier: Allow handball pickup and re-start.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Look up for an empty goal; Laces or side foot; Follow your shot.
Make it harder: Only score in a goal the coach calls. Make it easier: Allow handball pickup and re-start
Small-sided games8 min6+ playersTeam
Clean Your Room
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possession · Transition
What you need
Players: 6+ players
Space: 20m × 15m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 8 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (20m × 15m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Two teams kick balls into the other team'. S half.
Most balls left in your half loses when the music stops.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Kick with laces or inside.
Pick a space.
Get back for the next ball.
Make it harder: Only inside of foot. Make it easier: Allow rolling with hands.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Kick with laces or inside; Pick a space; Get back for the next ball.
Make it harder: Only inside of foot. Make it easier: Allow rolling with hands
Small-sided games10 min4+ playersTeam
Mini 1v1 Duel Lines
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possessionPractice type: Matched-up
What you need
Players: 4+ players
Space: 10m × 15m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 10 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (10m × 15m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Two lines.
Coach plays a ball in, first to it attacks a mini goal, the other defends.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Defend: get goal-side.
Attack: be brave, go at them.
Shoot early.
Make it harder: Add a second goal. Make it easier: Defender starts later.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Defend: get goal-side; Attack: be brave, go at them; Shoot early.
Make it harder: Add a second goal. Make it easier: Defender starts later
Small-sided games10 min8+ playersTeam
Defend the Castle
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possession
What you need
Players: 8+ players
Space: 14m × 14m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 10 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (14m × 14m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Five attackers round a 14m circle pass to knock over cone castles in the middle.
Three defenders block the passing lines.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Move as the ball moves.
Block the line of the pass.
Talk to team-mates.
Make it harder: Add a second ball. Make it easier: Bigger circle.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Move as the ball moves; Block the line of the pass; Talk to team-mates.
Make it harder: Add a second ball. Make it easier: Bigger circle
Small-sided games12 min4+ playersTeam
Pass and Pressure 2v2
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possessionPractice type: Matched-up
What you need
Players: 4+ players
Space: 20m × 15m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 12 minutes: 3 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (20m × 15m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
2v2 to end-line gates.
Defenders work as a pair: one presses, one covers.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
First defender presses.
Second covers behind.
Swap roles quickly.
Make it harder: 3v3 with a floating attacker. Make it easier: Pass-in rule only.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: First defender presses; Second covers behind; Swap roles quickly.
Make it harder: 3v3 with a floating attacker. Make it easier: Pass-in rule only
Small-sided games8 min6+ playersTeam
Hit the Coach
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possession
What you need
Players: 6+ players
Space: 15m × 15m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 8 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (15m × 15m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Players pass at the coach'. S legs as the coach moves around the area.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Lock the ankle.
Pass with the inside.
Look before you pass.
Make it harder: Weak foot only. Make it easier: Coach stands still.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Lock the ankle; Pass with the inside; Look before you pass.
Make it harder: Weak foot only. Make it easier: Coach stands still
Small-sided games10 min6+ playersTeam
Number Race to Goal
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possessionPractice type: Matched-up
What you need
Players: 6+ players
Space: 20m × 20m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 10 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (20m × 20m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Coach calls numbers.
Called players race out and play 1v1 or 2v2 to goal.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
React fast.
Shoot early.
Follow up rebounds.
Make it harder: Call three numbers. Make it easier: Coach passes to attacker.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: React fast; Shoot early; Follow up rebounds.
Make it harder: Call three numbers. Make it easier: Coach passes to attacker
Small-sided games10 min4+ playersTeam
Fox in the Box 3v1
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possessionPractice type: Matched-up
What you need
Players: 4+ players
Space: 20m × 16m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 10 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (20m × 16m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Three attackers v one defender plus GK in the box.
Servers feed in, attackers finish first time.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Move into space.
Low shots.
React to rebounds.
Make it harder: 2v2. Make it easier: No defender.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Move into space; Low shots; React to rebounds.
Make it harder: 2v2. Make it easier: No defender
Small-sided games8 min4+ playersTeam
Colour Goals 2v2
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possession
What you need
Players: 4+ players
Space: 20m × 15m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 8 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (20m × 15m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Four coloured mini goals.
Coach shouts a colour to score in.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Listen.
Look up.
Shoot early.
Make it harder: Two colours at once. Make it easier: Score any goal.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Listen; Look up; Shoot early.
Make it harder: Two colours at once. Make it easier: Score any goal
Small-sided games8 min6+ playersTeam
Space Invaders
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possession · Transition
What you need
Players: 6+ players
Space: 20m × 15m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 8 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (20m × 15m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Aliens dribble across the galaxy while coach rolls '. Meteor'. Balls to knock theirs.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Keep ball close.
Look up.
Dodge.
Make it harder: More meteors. Make it easier: Slower meteors.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Keep ball close; Look up; Dodge.
Make it harder: More meteors. Make it easier: Slower meteors
Small-sided games8 min2+ playersTeam
Escape the Box 1v1
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possession
What you need
Players: 2+ players
Space: 10m × 10m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 8 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (10m × 10m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Attacker escapes a 10x10 box past a defender over any side line.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Feint.
Change pace.
Use both feet.
Make it harder: Two defenders. Make it easier: Passive defender.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Feint; Change pace; Use both feet.
Make it harder: Two defenders. Make it easier: Passive defender
Small-sided games8 min4+ playersTeam
U5-U7 Finish the Story
Corner: Technical/TacticalIn possession · Out of possession
What you need
Players: 4+ players
Space: 16m × 12m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each, 2 goals
Time: 8 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (16m × 12m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Coach tells a story.
When the hero is called, players shoot at a pop-up goal.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Listen.
Shoot low.
Celebrate.
Make it harder: Two balls. Make it easier: Closer.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Listen; Shoot low; Celebrate.
Make it harder: Two balls. Make it easier: Closer
Fitness & mobility
Fitness & mobility6 min1+ playersTeam or solo
Mobility Cool-down
Corner: PhysicalPractice type: Unopposed
What you need
Players: 1+ players
Space: 12m × 10m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 6 minutes: 1 round of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (12m × 10m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Hips, hamstrings, calves, adductors at 4 cones.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Run tall and drive your arms.
Rest fully between each go.
Slow jog and easy stretches.
Remind players of one thing they learned.
Make it harder: Players lead it themselves. Make it easier: Seated or supported versions.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Good running form; recover fully between reps; Slow jog and easy stretches; Recap one key learning point.
Make it harder: Players lead it themselves.. Make it easier: Seated or supported versions.
Fitness & mobility5 min1+ playersSolo
Ball Roll Stretch
Corner: PhysicalPractice type: Unopposed
What you need
Players: 1+ players
Space: 4m × 4m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 5 minutes: 1 round of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (4m × 4m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Roll ball round body, gentle stretches.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Run tall and drive your arms.
Rest fully between each go.
Slow jog and easy stretches.
Remind players of one thing they learned.
Make it harder: Players lead it themselves. Make it easier: Seated or supported versions.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Good running form; recover fully between reps; Slow jog and easy stretches; Recap one key learning point.
Make it harder: Players lead it themselves.. Make it easier: Seated or supported versions.
Fitness & mobility8 min1+ playersTeam
Jog & Stretch
Corner: PhysicalPractice type: Unopposed
What you need
Players: 1+ players
Space: 12m × 10m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 8 minutes: 2 rounds of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (12m × 10m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Easy lap then static stretches 20-30s.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Run tall and drive your arms.
Rest fully between each go.
Slow jog and easy stretches.
Remind players of one thing they learned.
Make it harder: Players lead it themselves. Make it easier: Seated or supported versions.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Good running form; recover fully between reps; Slow jog and easy stretches; Recap one key learning point.
Make it harder: Players lead it themselves.. Make it easier: Seated or supported versions.
Fitness & mobility5 min4+ playersTeam
Toe-Taps & Chat
Corner: PhysicalPractice type: Unopposed
What you need
Players: 4+ players
Space: 10m × 10m, marked with cones
Equipment: cones, bibs, a ball each
Time: 5 minutes: 1 round of 3 minutes, with 1 minute rest between
How to set it up
Mark out the area (10m × 10m) with cones, as in the diagram.
Put players in their starting spots.
Show the drill once. Keep it under 1 minute, then let them play.
What to do
Circle, gentle toe taps, best moment of the day.
Stop now and then to praise one good example. Then go again.
What to look for
Run tall and drive your arms.
Rest fully between each go.
Slow jog and easy stretches.
Remind players of one thing they learned.
Make it harder: Players lead it themselves. Make it easier: Seated or supported versions.
Go further / Coach detail
What to look for: Good running form; recover fully between reps; Slow jog and easy stretches; Recap one key learning point.
Make it harder: Players lead it themselves.. Make it easier: Seated or supported versions.
