ABOUT THIS PRACTICE

In addition to ball control, players learn to use agility, direction change, and vision to evade defenders and find open space. Races, “Star Wars,” and other games teach players to dribble with purpose. Games teach players to be comfortable dribbling around defenders and through game-like obstacles.

SOCCER CONTEXT

Drills for this age group focus on basic techniques. Games are fun and encourage lots of touches on the ball. The most basic of all soccer skills is dribbling, the ability to carry the ball past an opponent while maintaining control, whether by using a simple change of direction or deception. Every player on the field, including the goalkeeper, must be able to dribble the ball. Dribbling is crucial to advancing the ball downfield.