Dribbling to Beat a Defender
The Dribbling to Beat a Defender soccer dribbling drill is wonderful when teaching young players when and where to dribble, and how to beat the defenders on the dribble. This dribbling drill is best for U8-U12 Soccer Players. The emphasis is on allowing the dribbling player to unbalance the defender while approaching unchallenged.
Soccer Dribbling Drill to Beat a Defender
This dribbling drill is great when teaching young players when and where to dribble, and how to beat the defenders on the dribble.
Drill Setup
- Create a grid 20X10 yards.
- Mark the halfway with a line of cones about 5 yards apart.
- Split into groups of three players.
- A group of three players needs two balls.
Drill Instructions
- Position the defender in the middle line in the grid.
- The defender in the middle is restricted to only move side to side on the middle line in an attempt to stop the dribbling attacker.
- Instruct the attacker to approach the defender under control, make his move after making the defender commit, and accelerate to the other side of the grid.
- If the defender wins the ball, he switches role with the player that lost the ball.
Drill Variations
- None
Drill Coaching Points
- Focus on a controlled approach by the attacker.
- Sell the fake/faint to the defender.
- Make sure the dribbling players change direction.
- Make sure the player accelerates to the other end line once past the defender.
Equipment
- Disc Cones - Mini or Full-Size Disc Cones are a critical piece of equipment that every soccer coach must have in your equipment bag.
- Scrimmage Pinnies/Vests - Scrimmage vests, also called bibs or pinnies, are also another must-have in your soccer coaching equipment bag.
- Soccer Practice or Training Balls - Every player should have a soccer balls at practice to have a successful training session.
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