Focus: Passing/ Dribbling Drill
Number of Players: 5
Age: +U8
Level: Easy
Setup:
- Create a “+” shape with 5 cones, ensuring that the outer cones are placed between 5-10 meters from the middle cone.
- Position a player at each cone.
- Adjust the distance between players based on their age and skill level.
Why Use This Drill?
The Cross Shape Passing Drill goes beyond just passing; it also incorporates dribbling and first-touch skills. This makes it an excellent way to combine these three elements into a single drill. The drill is easy to understand, and with three different variations, it becomes engaging and enjoyable for the players.
How It Works
1. Variation
The middle player begins with the ball, dribbles out to one of the outer players, and executes a one-two passing combination. Afterward, the middle player takes the ball around the middle cone and moves out to a new player. Rotate the player in the middle every 1-2 minutes.
2. Variation
The middle player starts with the ball, dribbles out to one of the outer players, and makes a one-two passing combination. They then switch positions, with the outer player moving into the middle and finding a new outer player.
3. Variation
The ball begins with one of the outer players. The ball is passed to the middle player, who takes a directional first touch and passes to a new outer player. The initial outer player and middle player switch positions, ensuring there’s always a new player in the middle after each passing sequence.
Other Key Points:
- Encourage players to stay on their toes, maintaining a state of readiness to receive the ball and make plays.
- Call out your teammate’s name when passing for better teamwork.
- The drill should be seen as inspiration. So feel free to adapt the drill to suit your team’s specific needs or focus areas.
