Simple Soccer Instructions: 21 Fun Games and Drills

Simple Soccer
Instructions
21 Fun Games and Drills
www.simplesoccerdvd.com
Field Set Up
Most games are set up in a 25 X 25 yard area. Field dimensions for each game will be listed
under Set Up. We call the practice area Soccer Island. Use 16 cones to outline Soccer Island as
illustrated below.
Basic Soccer Island Layout
Field Layout Key
Agility Drills#1
Mini Shuttle
1. Place 2 markers 20 yards apart. Place 2 marker in the middle only 3 yards
to each side. (see diagram to right)
2. Starting from the left-middle marker sprint to one end (10 yards), turn and
immediately sprint to the other end (20 yards) and then to the finish
marker (10 yards).
3. Turn on a different foot at each marker and try to touch the ground with
your hand.
Weave In/Out
1. Place 6-8 cones out in a straight line approximately 3 yards apart.
2. In between each set of cones place another cone only 3 yards to the left.
(see diagram right)
3. Sprint from one cone to the next bending down to touch each one with
your hand.
4. The emphasis is on taking quick side steps, rather than turning to face the
cone and sprinting forward which that takes more time.
Follow the Leader

1. Mark out a large area - 20 yards by 20 yards for example.
2. Pair up with a team mate and have them run randomly within the
area.
3. Try to maintain 2 yards distance from them at all times. Your team
mate should be changing direction and pace constantly.
CREATING SMILES FOR TODAY, ATHLETES FOR TOMORROW AND KNOWLEDGE OF THE GA ME FOR A LIFETIME.
Agility Drills#1
Super Shuttle
1. Set a series of cones out in a cross formation. (see diagram right)
2. Run backwards to the center cone, side step to the right cone (or your
left if you are performing the drill), side step back to the centre cone
still facing the same way.
3. At the center cone turn and sprint forward to the end cone. Now run
back to the center cone, side step to the left, side step back to the
center, then turn and sprint back to the start.
4. Phew! Sounds complicated - it's not - the diagram explains it quicker
than I can!
Slalom
1. Place 10 shuttles in a line 5 yards apart.
2. Weave in and out as fast as possible and walk back to the start.
3. This exercise is often performed much more slowly with a ball. The goal
here is to develop speed of leg movement so no ball is used.
Box Drill
1. Use 4 cones or markers to mark out a square approximately 5yards by
5yards.
2. Place a cone in the center of the square. This is your starting position.
3. Give each corner a number and remember it! Have a team mate (or
your coach) call numbers at random.
4. Sprint to the corner shouted and return to the middle.
BIG GREEN SMELLY OGRE

Skills Used: Dribbling, Turning, Push Pass
Equipment: Balls, cones
Set Up: 25 x 20 yard area, players are put in pairs; players (O) each have 1 ball
How The Game Is Played:
The farmers (O) have got together to chase the big green smelly ogres (X) out of the swamp. In
pairs the players take it in turns to be the farmer and the smelly green ogre. The farmer must
chase the ogre (while dribbling a soccer ball) until they hear the shout of stuck in the mud and
then they must both freeze. Once frozen the farmer must try and shoot their ball through the
ogres legs. The farmer gets 100 points for every successful shot. Continue the dribbling game
until the farmer has had 3 shots and then switch the farmer and ogre.
NOTE:
* First play without any balls
* Then play with 1 ball for the farmer and 1 ball with the ogre
* Then play the main game with just the farmer having a ball
* When the ogre is frozen they must open their legs wide and face the farmer
Coaching Points:
Dribbling keeping the ball close to their body while looking up
Close control with the ball 2 or 3 feet in front of the player
Quick turns, keeping the ball under control, and accelerating away
Accurate push pass
COUNTDOWN

Skills Used: Passing, Control
Set Up: 25 x 25 yard area, players start with one ball between each pair (X and O)
Watch the clock because its a countdown from 60 seconds to see how many gates the players
can get to within the time. When each pair reaches a gate they must play 3 small push passes
between each other between the gates before dribbling onto the next gate. Which pair can get
through the most gates during the tense countdown?
NOTE: For extra difficulty: After playing a few times add in the coach to chase the players and try
and steal their ball.
Coaching Points:
Push pass using the inside of the foot
Striking the middle of the ball
Locking the ankles when kicking
Placing the non-kicking foot next to the ball when kicking
DALMATION PUPPIES

Skills Used: Dribbling, Turning, Shielding, Tackling
Set Up: 25 x 20 yard area, players (X) all start with a ball at their feet
The nasty dog catcher (O = coach) is trying to steal all the players (X) puppies to turn them into a
fur coat. The players (X) have to keep their puppies close so that the dog catcher doesnt steal
their puppies (soccer ball).
The players (x) attempt to dribble to the other side of Soccer Island with their puppy. If their puppy
is kicked out of Soccer Island they turn into a dog catcher. See who can keep their puppy the
longest.
NOTE: Play first without a ball with the dog catchers just tagging. Next, play with the players (X)
each starting with a ball.
Coaching Points:
Quick turns, keeping the ball under control and accelerating away
Dribbling into open space
Shielding the ball using their body
FEEDING TIME AT THE ZOO

Equipment: Balls, cones, pinnies
Set Up: 25 x 20 yard area, divide the players into two equal teams
Its feeding time at the zoo, and the zoo keeper (coach) is feeding the hungry animals (players)
their food. The zoo keeper shouts the name of different animals and they have to run out and
battle for the food (ball) to take back to their cage.
NOTE: First play with 2 balls, then use 1 ball
Coaching Points:
Quick turns keeping the ball under control and accelerating away
GO FOR GOAL

Skills Used: Instep Kick, Dribbling
Set Up: 30 x 20 yard area, divide players into 2 equal teams and place on opposite sides of the
field. Players (X) have 1 ball each.
Go for goal by dribbling, cutting and moving inside, and then shooting on goal. Players take it in
turns to dribble down the outside of the field and then at the midway point cut inside to take the
shot on goal. After they shoot they retrieve their ball and join the back of the opposite line. This is
a continuous game where the kids are always moving and getting plenty of shooting practice. See
how the kids get used to dribbling and Going For Goal!
NOTE:
* Have a coach stand behind each goal to retrieve the balls
* Encourage players to keep the ball close when dribbling and cutting before the final shot
* If the shooting is getting good, add in goalkeepers at each end
Coaching Points:
Shooting accurately using the instep kick
Using the laces when kicking
Keeping the eyes on the ball when kicking
Dribbling keeping the ball close and changing direction with the ball
HUNDREDS AND THOUSANDS

Skills Used: Instep Kick, Push Pass, Tackling
Set Up: 30 x 25 yard area, divide players into 2 equal teams (x and o), use only 1 ball with a
supply of balls around the field of play
Hundreds and thousands is the game where you can score hundreds and thousands of points!
Instead of having just 1 soccer goal, there are 5 soccer goals set up at each end. The middle goal
is worth 1000 points, the goal on either side is worth 500 points, and the goals in the corners are
worth 100 points. Play like a normal scrimmage game and see how many hundreds and
thousands of points each team can make!
NOTE:
* Make the middle goal small (so its harder to score) and the goals in the corners bigger
* Encourage the players to pass the ball around to work the shot on the middle goal
* No goalkeepers are allowed
* Play in 5 minute periods
Coaching Points:
Push passing using the inside of the foot between teammates
ICE CREAM FACTORY

Skills Used: Dribbling, Turning
Set Up: 25 x 20 yard area, players (X) each have 1 ball
All the players (X) are running around dribbling with their soccer ball in the ice-cream factory.
When the coach shouts the name of an ice-cream flavor all the players (X) have to run to that
side of the ice-cream factory and stop their ball on the line.
NOTE:
* Play first without a ball
* Add a soccer ball to each player
* Get the players to use inside, outside, stop, and drag-back turns
Coaching Points:
Quick turns, keeping the ball under control and accelerating away
JEDI KNIGHTS

Skills Used: Push Pass, Dibbling
Set Up: 25 x 20 yard area, all players (X) start with a ball
The coach (O) starts off in the middle on the dark side and the players (X) are on the good side.
The players (Jedi Knights) need to dribble their ball across the galaxy without the dark side
(coach) kicking his ball against the players ball. If the players (X) get their ball struck by the
coaches ball they must join the dark side in the middle and battle on the dark side. See who will
be the last Jedi Knight in the middle to keep their ball from being hit by someone on the dark
side?
NOTE: For extra difficulty, after playing a few times add in the coach to chase the players and try
and steal their ball.
Coaching Points:
Dribbling and shielding the ball
KING OF THE SOCCER RING

Set Up: 25 x 20 yard area with two smaller 5 x 5 yard boxes in opposite corners, players (X) each
have 1 ball
Each player (X) is their favorite big strong American wrestler. Each player has to protect their ball
and keep it inside the ring while trying to kick the other players ball outside the ring. Every time
the players ball is kicked out they must quickly retrieve it and perform 10 toe-taps in the steel
cages in the corners before they re-enter the ring. The player to keep the ball in the ring most is
crowned King of the Soccer Ring.
NOTE: Play for 3 minutes at a time
Coaching Points:
Dribbling keeping the ball close to their body while looking up for opposition
Block tackles and stealing the ball
LASER PASSER

Skills Used: Push Pass, Control
Set Up: 25 x 15 yard area, players are put into pairs
Players (X and O) have to pass the laser ball across the galaxy to each other using a push pass.
They are trying to see how many times they can destroy the enemy death star in the middle with
the laser ball.
NOTE:
* Set up the enemy death star by placing a ball on top of a cone. When it is knocked off, quickly
put it back on the cone again.
* See how many times you can laser blast it in 60 seconds
Coaching Points:
LORD of the SOCCER RINGS

Skills Used: Push Pass, Dribbling
Set Up: 25 x 20 yard area, players (x) start with 1 ball between each pair
The hobbits (O) are given a magical pinnie which turns them invisible to the orks (X). The hobbits
(O) are running across middle earth and back, trying to retrieve as many soccer rings (cones) as
possible without getting hit by the orks (X) with the soccer ball.
NOTE:
* Hobbits can only retrieve one ring at a time while dribbling their soccer ball across
* Hobbits receive 100 soccer ring points for every ring they collect and bring back but lose 20
points every time they are hit below the knee only
* Orks have to pass the ball back and forth between their partners to stop the hobbits getting the
rings
* Let everyone have an opportunity as a hobbit and an ork
* Make sure they keep the ball low when push passing keep their head over the ball when
kicking
Coaching Points:
MUD MONSTERS

Set Up: 25 X 20 yard area, players (X) have a ball at their feet
The mud monsters (O) are chasing the players (X) around the swamp and trying to steal their
ball. If their ball is kicked they are frozen and stuck in the mud. When stuck in the mud the
player must stand with their ball above their head with their legs wide open. A player can be
unfrozen only when the other players (X) pass the ball through their open legs.
See if the mud monsters (O) can freeze all the players (X) in one minute. Change the mud
monsters around so everybody gets a chance as a player and mud monster.
NOTE:
* Play first without a ball and get mud monsters to tag the players players unfreeze each other
by crawling under the front of their legs
* Then add a ball to players (X)
Coaching Points:
Dribbling keeping the ball close to their body while looking up for other players
Block tackling and stealing the ball
RACE AGAINST the CLOCK

Skills Used: Dribbling, Turning
Set Up: 25 x 20 yard area, players (x) start with 1 ball each
The players (X) all have 1 ball each. Its a race against the clock to see how many gates (cones)
they can dribble through in 90 seconds. Who can get through more than 10 gates?
NOTE:
* Add in 10 toe-taps when the players reach each gate
* Add in a turn when the players go through each gate
Coaching Points:
RUMBLE in the JUNGLE

Skills Used: Instep Kick, Dribbling, Tackling
Set Up: 25 x 25 yard grid, divide players into 2 equal teams (x, o, *, ^)
Its the big Rumble in the Jungle between all the jungle animals! Have two jungle teams with an
elephant, monkey, rhino, and giraffe. Set them up on opposite sides of the jungle. When you (the
coach) shout an animal name, the animal must race around the cones and through their goal and
into the jungle. The coach passes 1 ball into the jungle. Its a battle between the animals to see
who can get the ball and score in the oppositions goal. This is the real rumble in the jungle, who
can be first to score 10 jungle goals?
NOTE:
* Play first with 2 balls in the middle so every player gets a shot
* Move to using just 1 ball
* After everyone has battled a few times, call 2 animal names at once
Coaching Points:
SCOOBY the DETECTIVE DOG

Skills Used: Instep Kick
Set Up: 25 x 25 yard area, divide players into 2 equal teams (X and O)
This is a battle between the two teams and their detective dog characters! The coach throws a
ball in the middle of the field and shouts a character name. That player on each team must run
out and around the cones and through the Scooby gate. Once through the Scooby gate the
players must battle for the Scooby snack (ball) and try and get a shot on the goal defended by
Scrappy Dee (the coach). Who can be the first team to shoot 5 Scooby snacks past Scrappy
Dee?
NOTE:
* Give the players on each team a character name
* First throw in 2 balls in the middle so everyone gets a shot
* Then throw just 1 ball in the middle so they battle
* After everyone has had a few shots call 2 people at once
Coaching Points:
SOCCER BOWLING

Skills Used: Push Pass, Dribbling
Set Up: 30 x 25 yard area, players (X) each have 1 ball between their pair and 3 balls on top of 3
cones opposite them
Soccer bowling brings all the excitement of the bowling alley to the soccer field. Each team races
against each other to see who can be the first to knock down all 3 pins (balls on cones). They
must dribble quickly to the bowling line and then control the ball, take aim and play a push pass
aiming at the pins. Once they have they must quickly retrieve the ball and dribble it back to their
partner. The players must keep repeating until the first team knocks down all 3 balls. Who can be
the first team to knock all 3 down?
NOTE: This can be played several times until each team has won at least once.
Coaching Points:
STARSHIP BATTLES

Skills Used: Push Pass, Control, Instep Kick
Set Up: 30 x 30 yard area, place 5 balls on 5 cones at each end of the grid, divide into 2 equal
teams
Its a starship battle between the 2 teams across the galaxy. They are trying to destroy their
enemys starship. Each team (Xs and Os) have to defend their starship (balls on cones). Each
team gets 100 inter-galactic points every time they knock a ball off the cone with the soccer ball.
Play with one ball only, who will rule the galaxy?
NOTE:
* Encourage players to play around the front and back of the starships looking for the open pass
* Encourage control before passing
* Play in 5 minute periods
Coaching Points:
SUPER GOAL SHOOTER

Skills Used: Instep Kick
Set Up: 25 x 20 yard area, players (X) are put in pairs with one ball between them
Each pair of players (X) have 60 seconds to score as many goals as they can by shooting back
and forth in the same goal (between the cones set up). Its a race to see which pair can be the top
Super Goal Shooters!
NOTE:
* Players must stay at least 10 yards back from the goal
* Make sure they strike with the laces and control the ball before shooting
* Add goalkeepers in the goal to make it harder
* Make sure everyone has a chance to be a super goal shooter and goalkeeper
Coaching Points:
SWAMP THING

Skills Used: Instep Kick, Dribbling
Set Up: 25 x 20 yard area, players (O) have a supply of balls at one end, players (X) are on the
floor in a crab position on their back
The players (O) are running across the swamp dribbling with their ball trying to avoid the smelly
Swamp Things (X) who are trying to steal their ball. If the Swamp Things touch the players (O)
ball with their feet, they must quickly return to the beginning and start again with another ball. If
they get past the Swamp Things they must take a shot on the King Swamp Thing (goalkeeper)
and try and score a goal. They get 50 points for every goal. Each player gets 4 shots each. Who
will be king of the swampthe players or the swamp things?
NOTE:
* Make sure every player is a swamp thing, goalkeeper, and player
* Divide areas with cones, with 2 swamp things in each area so they dont bunch up
* Make sure kids move in a crab position and dont use hands
* The King Swamp Thing (goalkeeper) can stand up
Coaching Points:
Dribbling keeping the ball close and head up
TRIANGLE PASSING

Skills Used: Push Pass, Control
Set Up: 15 x 15 x 15 yard triangle, players (X) are split into 2 teams, 1 ball between each team
In soccer to move up the field passing we do so in a triangle shape. To practice passing and
moving in a triangle shape we set up a triangle with at least 4 players (2 in one corner and 1 in
each of the other corners). In a counter clockwise motion the players (X) pass the ball to a
teammate and follow their pass to stand in their position. The next player continues to pass to
another teammate in a counter clockwise direction and stand in their position. This continues for
90 seconds to see which team can make the most passes.
NOTE:
* Make sure each player controls the ball before passing it on
* Always start the game with the ball in the corner where the 2 players are
* Change it around and make players play in a clockwise direction so they use left and right feet
Coaching Points:
WACKY RACERS

Skills Used: Dribbling, Turning, Shielding
Set Up: 25 x 20 yard area, players (X) each have 1 ball
Each player (X) is given a car (ball) to drive around the busy roads of Soccer Island. They must
listen to the road commands given by the coach. They must look out for other cars and the
runaway truck (coach).
NOTE:
red light = stop the ball with the bottom of the foot
green light = go-dribble
yellow light = stop your ball, run around a cone and stand next to another ball
reverse = drag-back turn
rev the engine = toe-taps on the ball
over the bridge = thigh juggles
turbo boost = speed dribbling
head light = stop and dribble the ball with your head
Coaching Points:
Reacting to commands and improving concentration on the soccer field
Body Parts Warm-up Game

Drill Info:
This soccer drill focuses on the younger player's dribbling
skills and the ability to think quick on their feet while
holding the ball close. Run this soccer drill with at least 2
players but no more than 18. This soccer drill should last
approximately 15 minutes on a small field.
Setup:
Create a grid about 15X15 yards. All the players should be inside the grid with a ball of their
own.
Instructions:
The coach shouts a part of the body that the player uses to stop the ball. For example right foot,
left foot, knee, etc.
Coaching Points:
* Encourage players to constantly move and zig-zag while dribbling.
* Keep Close possession.
* Head up to avoid collisions.
Focus:
Technical Dribbling
Cross Field Warm up

Drill Info:
This is for ages All Levels. This drill is mainly focused on
technical skills during warm up. Run this soccer drill with at
least 8 players but no more than 18. This soccer drill should
last approximately 20 minutes
Setup:
Players are divided into two equal groups. Group 1 stands along the touchline with Group 2
about 5 yards away facing their partner. Players in Group 2 should have a ball.
Instructions:
The player in Group 2 holds the ball in their hands and jogs backwards across the field making
tosses to their partner. The player in Group 1 jugs forward and receives the ball in the all and
returns the ball to their partner. When the players reach the other touchline, the roles should be
switched and return to the other touchline. The players should work on one of the following
skills each time across the field.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Receive the ball with the inside of the foot alternating right and left.
Receiving the ball with the instep alternating right and left.
Trapping the ball with the thigh and returning it to the thrower.
Trapping with the chest and returning it to the thrower.
Heading back to the thrower should make the receiver do jumping headers as well.
Variations:
* Reverse the direction of the thrower and the receiver where the thrower jogs forward and the
receiver jogs backwards.
Coaching Points:
* Good body positioning behind the ball.
* Controlled touches before playing the ball back.
* Getting a good warm-up.
Four Corners Agressiveness & Fitness Drill

Drill Info:
This soccer drill focuses on aggressiveness in winning 50/50
balls and fitness. This drill will be more beneficial for
younger players under 8 and older. Run this soccer drill with
at least 4 players but no more than 20. This soccer drill
should last approximately 25 minutes on a small field.
Setup:
Create a grid that is 30x30 yards. Create 4 teams and have them stand at each of the four corner
cones. The coach stands outside the grid near the middle of 2 side cones with a large supply of
soccer balls.
Instructions:
The coach plays a ball into the center of the grid and shouts out a command (such as GO) to
begin play. The first player in each of the 4 lines must sprint after the ball in attempt to reach the
ball first. Once the ball is won cleanly, the player must hold possession from the other players for
5 seconds before passing the ball back to the coach. If any player steals the ball from the person
in possession, that player will then attempt to hold possession for 5 seconds. A team scores a
point by successfully holding possession for 5 seconds and making a return pass to the coach.
The first team to reach 5 points wins.
Variations:
* The coach can play different types of balls such as flighted balls, bouncing balls, rolling balls,
balls with large amounts of top or back spin.
Coaching Points:
* Players should be taught to go after the ball aggressively with speed, determination and vigor.
Focus:
Technical Dribbling, Technical Aggressiveness
The Pirate Game Curse of the Pugg Net

Drill Info:
This drill is a good drill that can be used to focus on many
aspects of the game. For younger players ages 8-11, the
primary focus should be on good dribbling technique in
traffic which requires vision and awareness. The coach can
also focus on transition from offense to defense if the ball is
lost, or recovering from a tackle and finding safety.
Defensively, this allows defenders to steal the ball from
attackers and play to a particular goal or target.
Run this soccer drill with at least 8 players but no more than 20. This soccer drill should last
approximately 20 minutes on a 1/2 field.
Setup:
Build a circle approximately the size of the center circle with a Pugg net in the middle of the
circle. The actual size of the circle will vary depending on the age and skill level of the players.
With all players in the playing area, dedicate 9 players with the ball, and 3 players without a ball
will be the "Pirates".
Instructions:
Instruct the "Pirates" without the ball to defend the players with the balls. Once the Pirate wins
the ball, they attempt to score on the Pugg net in the middle of the circle. If the Pirate scores the
goal, that player too becomes a Pirate. Play continues until the last player with the ball wins. If
the pirates have a hard time getting started, the coach can help the pirates at first.
Coaching Points:
Attacking: keep the ball close with head up so the players are aware of defenders and safety
areas (space). If the ball is lost, recover quickly and fight to win it back.
Defending: Transition quickly from defense to offensive and stay focused once the ball is won,
and find the target.
Traffic Jam Dribbling Game

Drill Info:
This game is just out right fun! The kids will have a blast
playing this game. This drill is ideal for kids who know how
to dribble but just need to learn to get their heads up and
dribble under the pressures of mere congestion.
Run this soccer drill with at least 8 players but no more than
20. This soccer drill should last approximately 20 minutes
on a small field.
Setup:
Step off a grid approximately 30X30 yards. Randomly place tall cones and training sticks (flags
will work as well) in the middle of the grid. Split the group into 4 even teams who start on the
corners of the grid with 1 ball per group.
Instructions:
On the coachs command, the first player from each line will race through the Traffic Jam
(training sticks and cones) in attempt to not hit a stick, cone, or another player. Once the player
makes it through the traffic jam instruct them to dribble with speed to the line they are facing and
pass the ball to the first player in line. That player should immediately head towards the traffic
jam with speed in attempt to get through the traffic jam first. At first dont keep score, simply let
the players enjoy the close calls before playing the game. After 8-10 minutes, combine the two
teams that are facing each other into one team. Next, have the players race through the traffic
jam to the cone on the opposite side of the grid, around that cone and back through the traffic
jam. As each player finishes the race they must sit down to signify to the group that they have
completed the race. The team that has all players sitting down first wins the game.
Variations:
For younger players it might be best to start with one or two players entering the traffic jam at a
time.
Since all 4 players should be entering the center area at the same time make sure players are
looking ahead of them with their head up. Remind players to keep the ball close when entering
the traffic area.
Frogger
Drill Info:
This drill will assist the younger player with dribbling under
minimal pressure. Run this soccer drill with at least 4 players
but no more than 16. This soccer drill should last
approximately 20 minutes on a small field. Make sure you
have the following equipment: cones, .
Setup:
Build a grid 20X30 (may adjust if too large or small). Every player must be in the grid with a
ball except for 2 players who will be the FROGS.
Instructions:
All of the players will start on one side of the grid and try to make it to the other side. The two
FROGS must hop and try to tag the other players as they try to get to the other side. When a
player is tagged, they both become a frog. Play continues until only 2 players are left, who
become the frogs for the next game.
Coaching Points:
* Start getting the players dribbling to get their heads up to avoid the frogs.
Focus:
Technical Dribbling
Ouch!
Drill Info:
This drill should be used with younger players (U6 and U8)
to introduce dribbling, looking up and properly striking the
ball ball at a target. AND IT's FUN! Run this soccer drill
with at least 2 players but no more than 20. This soccer drill
Setup:
Build a grid 20X30 (may adjust if too large or small). Every player must be in the grid with a
ball.
Instructions:
The coach jogs around in the grid and players try to kick their balls and hit the coach. The
players get a point each time they hit the coach. The coach should yell OUCH each time they are
hit to make the game FUN.', '* Make sure the players are striking the ball with the proper part of
the foot.
Variations:
* If the players are struggling to hit the coach, the coach should stop for a couple seconds to give
the players a chance.
* Use different parts of the foot: Inside, Instep, Right and Left foot.
Focus:
Technical Dribbling, Technical Passing
The Greeting Game

Drill Info:
This drill will get the players moving, greeting each other,
and a building block to introduce dribbling. Run this soccer
drill with at least 1 players but no more than 9. This soccer
drill should last approximately 10 minutes on a small field.
Setup:
Build a grid that is 15X20 yards using cones. Each of the players get inside the grid.
Instructions:
All the players run around randomly inside the grid. The coach calls out various types of
greetings, which each players then has to carry out with others: shake hands, high fives (one
hand), high fives (other hand), shoulder to shoulder, back to back, etc.
Progressions: Add dribbling.
Variations:
* Add Dribbling
Coaching Points:
* When dribbling, keep the ball close and don't run into other players.
Focus:
Technical Dribbling
Soccer Tag
Drill Info:
This soccer drill is good for younger players ages under 5
through under 8. This is a fun soccer drill that allows players
to gain confidence on the ball while getting a lot of touches.
on a small field.
Setup:
Build a grid that is approximately 20X20 (or larger depending on the number of players
involved). Each player should have a ball and position them inside the grid.
Instructions:
Instruct the players to tag (touch) other players within the grid. Once the player gets tagged they
must hold that area of the body that was tagged while still dribbling while avoiding other tags
and attempting to tag others. If players are tagged a 2nd time they must hold both tagged areas
while dribbling. If the player is tagged a 3rd time, the player must move to the outside of the grid
and perform an exercies such as 25 toe touches, 4 juggles, 25 foundation touches, or push-ups
before rejoining the game.
Coaching Points:
* Keeping the ball close to the player.
* Head up where they can see ball and players.
* Use all parts of the foot while dribbling (inside, outside, bottom, heal, top)
Focus:
Technical Dribbling
Red Light Green Light

Drill Info:
This drill will focus on dribbling with the ball close in order
to stop quickly. Run this soccer drill with at least 4 players
but no more than 10. This soccer drill should last
Setup:
Create a starting line for each of the players, and the coach should move 15-20 yards away.
Instructions:
With the coaches back to the players, he yells GREEN LIGHT and the players try to dribble to
the coach. When the coach yells RED LIGHT, he waits a moment and then turns to face the
players. Anyone who is not stopped has to go back to the farthest person from the coach.
Variations:
* Have the players dribble with only the right or left foot.
Coaching Points:
* Make sure the players keep the ball close so they can stop quickly.
Focus:
Technical Dribbling
The Numbers Game

Drill Info:
This drill focuses on the 1v1 situational play for younger
players. This focuses on the individual dynamics of this
game such as dribbling, shooting, shielding, turning and
beating an opponent. Run this soccer drill with at least 6
players but no more than 16. This soccer drill should last
Setup:
Create a small 1v1 field approximately 15X20 with two small goals on each endline. Split the
group into two even teams and assign a number to each player in each group. For instance if you
have 5 players in each group, number off 1-5 in each group. One group should wear alternate
jerseys.
Instructions:
The coach will play a ball into the area and call out a number. Those players must then sprint
onto the field and play a 1v1. The game should continue until a goal is scored or the ball goes out
of bounds.
Variations:
Have more than one 1v1 going at the same time.

Call out two or more numbers to create a 2v2 or 3v3.
Coaching Points:
Encourage players to take on their opponent.

Encourage players to shoot when they have a chance of a goal.
Instruct the players to protect the ball when necessary.
Knock Out
Drill Info:
This drill is a great warm-up drill for dribbling sessions. It
emphasizes on dribbling and ball control (keeping head up,
change of direction and change of pace). Run this soccer
drill with at least 4 players but no more than 20. This soccer
drill should last approximately 20 minutes on a small field.
Setup:
Create a grid depending on the number of players and have each player with a ball inside the
grid.
Instructions:
Instruct the players to protect their own ball while trying to "knock out" the other player's balls
out of the grid. Players must stay with their ball and cannot leave the ball for long periods of
time. Players can only be "knocked out" 2 times where they do 5-10 pushups and get back in the
game. On the 3rd time, they are out.
Variations:
* Make players dribble with certain parts of their foot. * If player dribbles out of bounds their
self they are considered "knocked out".
Coaching Points:
* Instruct players to keep the ball close and touch the ball often * Players heads should be up
looking for other players and be aware of their surroundings *
Focus:
Technical Dribbling, Technical Shielding, Technical Deceptive Moves
Soccer Ball Smash

Drill Info:
This soccer drill will focus on the player who is just learning to
pass, as this drill will focus on passing accuracy. Run this soccer
drill with at least 6 players but no more than 18. This soccer drill
should last approximately 15 minutes on a 1/2 field.
Setup:
Set up a large grid approximately 40X50 yards. Pair up each of
the players and make sure each player has a ball. The two
partners should stand near to each other inside the grid but spread away from other groups of players
when starting this drill.
Instructions:
Instruct player 1 to pass his ball forward. After Player 1's ball stops moving, player 2 then passes their
ball at player 1's ball in attempt to hit player 1's ball. If player 2 misses, then player 1 tries to hit player
2's ball from where it landed previously. Each time a player hits their opponents ball, they collect a
point. The first player to 5 wins that match.
Variations:
Alternate the groups and repeat.
Limit players to passing with certain parts of the foot: inside, outside, instep
Coaching Points:
Make sure the players are striking the ball with the correct surface of the foot.
make sure the weight of the pass is good
watch the plant foot to make sure it is pointing to it's target.
Focus:
Technical Passing
1 vs 1 to Multiple Goals
Drill Info:
soccer drill is great drill for focusing on teaching players
attacking skills such as taking on their opponent or learning
to attack space. Defensively it will teach players the
responsibility of man marking. Run this soccer drill with at
least 6 players but no more than 18. This soccer drill should
last approximately 20 minutes on a 1/2 field.
Setup:
Make a 40X40 grid. Split your team into pairs with one ball per pair. Randomly set up small
goals (approx 2-3 yards wide) with flags within the grid; one goal per pair. Each pair should
begin at their window.
Instructions:
Each team will play 1v1 using their goal only. Goals are scored by dribbling across the goal line.
Goals can be scored from either side of their own goal. Players play 1 to 2 minute games and
rotate players.
Variations:
Open it up where each pair can score on any of the other goals. They are still paired up with only
their partner and should not interfere with any other pairs going on. Goals can still be scored
from either side of the goals by dribbling through the goal.
Coaching Points:
Attacking: Head up and aware of other players, change of direction, close control, and change of
pace Defending: Bent Knees, aware of attacker, tracking attackers movement and protecting the
goal
Focus:
Technical Dribbling, Technical Aggressiveness, Technical Shielding, Tactical Attacking,
Physical Quickness/Speed
Jam-Packed Soccer Dribbling Drill

Drill Info:
This soccer dribbling drill will give players confidence while
dribbling through congested areas on the soccer field.
Run this soccer drill with at least 6 players but no more than 20.
This soccer drill should last approximately 20 minutes on a small
field.
Setup:
To begin this drill, create a circle with disc cones that is approximately 20 yards in circumference. Make
sure each player has a ball, and instruct them to line up around the outside of the circle.
Instructions:
Have the players begin the soccer drill by dribbling around the outside of the circle all in the same
direction. The coach should inform the players to listen for certain queues and perform those actions
once the coach shouts the command. These commands are:
JOG - players should dribble at a comfortable speed
FULL SPEED - players should dribble at their top speed
CUT - players should cut the ball in the other direction and travel in the other direction around the circle
CROSS - all players should cur across the grid avoiding contact with other players or other players balls.
Variations:
Think of other commands to add to the drill.
Coaching Points:
Since all 4 players should be entering the center area at the same time make sure players are looking
ahead of them with their head up.
Remind players to keep the ball close when entering the traffic area.
Have players start playing with their arms up and out for balance and shielding
Instruct players to dribble with both feet and all parts of the foot.
This is a fun soccer drill, so make sure to HAVE FUN!
Focus:
Technical Dribbling, Technical Turning
Instep Shooting Drill

Drill Info:
drill focuses on the instep drive. This is a very important
method of striking a ball as it is used in shooting. The ball is
struck with the shoelace part of the foot with the toe pointed
down and the ankle locked.
Setup:
Setup a grid that is 25x25 yards and place 3-4 tall cones in the middle of the grid. Divide the
team into groups of 2. Partners stand on opposite sides of the grid facing each other. Each group
of 2 needs a ball.
Instructions:
Players get points by knocking over a cone by driving the ball to their partners side of the grid.
Any of the players on the side can return the ball by driving it with the instep of the foot while
attempting to knock over a cone.
Variations:
* Drill can be used for younger players to work on inside of the foot passing
Coaching Points:
* Striking the ball with the shoelaces, toe pointed down, ankle locked, non-kicking foot should
be next to the ball and slightly behind it and pointed towards the target. Players should try to land
on their kicking foot to use the full transfer of body weight.
Focus:
Technical Shooting
Angle of Support Possession Drill

Drill Info:
This soccer passing drill is a great drill for teaching young
players angle of support and spacing. This soccer drill
Setup:
Set up a grid that is 10 X 10 yards. Organize the team into
groups of three players per grid. Each of the three players
should position themselves near 3 different corners of the grid with one ball.
Instructions:
The instructions are simply to never leave an empty cone adjacent to the player with the ball. For
example, say the drill begins with a player at position 1 in possession of the ball while players at
2 and 4 start at the cones adjacent to the player at 1. The player at position 1 can pass to either of
the players at positions 2 and 4. If the player at position 1 passes to the player at position 2, the
player at position 4 must quickly move to position 3 in order to support the player in undefended space. The play continues with no defensive pressure and players are allowed to pass
to either supporting player. This soccer drill is simple, however, players will have to pay
attention to the ball movement and often anticipate the next move in order to move to space
quicker.
Variations:
- Play in 1 or 2 touches.
- Add a defender
Coaching Points:
- Make sure players are thinking and moving quickly to the next supporting position.
- Explain Defended Space (see diagram)
- Help players with good angle of support
Focus:
Technical Passing, Technical Receiving, Tactical Support, Tactical Possession, Tactical
Movement with/Without The Ball
1 vs 1 To Goal
Drill Info:
This drill focuses on beating the last defender, staying in
control of the ball and finishing with a good shot on goal.
on a 1/2 field.
Setup:
Create a 12 X 5 yard grid just inside the penalty box and assign 1 defender to this grid. Have a
goalkeeper play in the goal. Place a cone 7 or 8 yards outside the grid where the remaining
players must start with a ball.
Instructions:
The defenders job is to stop the attackers from getting through the grid and out the other side
while being restricted to only defending within the grid. The attackers role is to simply beat the
defender and get a shot on goal. The attacker must attack out the back of the cones and not out
the sides of the grid. Rotate the defenders every 1 to 2 minutes.
Variations:
If the attacking player is stopped by the defender, the attacker quickly becomes a
defender attempting to stop the next attacker in line.
Coaching Points:
Good Control and keeping the ball close.

Good Shot on Goal.
Beating the defender with speed.
Down & Back Dribbling Game

Drill Info:
This drill is most effective with young players just learning
to dribble. This drill teaches players to dribble in high
traffic/high pressure situations while staying in control. It's a
great warm-up to focus on dribbling with all parts of the
foot. This soccer drill should last approximately 20 minutes
on a small field.
Setup:
Start by making a grid approximately 20X20 yards. Split the team into two groups. Each player
should have a ball. Instruct each group of players to line up outside the grid facing inward on two
adjacent sides of the grid (half of the group on one side, the other half on the side next to the
other group).
Instructions:
On the coaches command, instruct the players to dribble to the other side of the group and back
to the starting position (down and back). The first player back in each group gets a point. The
first player to 5 wins that set. Play 3-4 sets.
Variations:
- restrict players to touches with a certain foot or part of the foot. (example: left foot only, or
outside of the foot only)
- Have the player turn or cut when they reach the opposite side of the grid
- Place even groups on all four sides of the grid and play the same game. - Make the grid a bit
larger and have the players dribble with speed
Coaching Points:
- focus on the players getting their heads up while dribbling for awareness and to avoid collisions
- make sure players keep the ball at a close/safe distance. If the ball is too far in front of them
they will most often hit another player or lose their ball.
Focus:
Technical Dribbling, Technical Turning, Tactical Vision

Simple Soccer Instructions: 21 Fun Games and Drills

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Simple Soccer Instructions: 21 Fun Games and Drills

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Simple Soccer

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Body Parts Warm-up Game

Cross Field Warm up

Four Corners Agressiveness & Fitness Drill

The Pirate Game Curse of the Pugg Net

Traffic Jam Dribbling Game

The Greeting Game

Red Light Green Light

The Numbers Game

Have more than one 1v1 going at the same time.

Encourage players to take on their opponent.

Soccer Ball Smash

Jam-Packed Soccer Dribbling Drill

Instep Shooting Drill

Angle of Support Possession Drill

Good Control and keeping the ball close.

Down & Back Dribbling Game

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