Y Passing Drill - Variation 1
Develops players' ability to receive with an open body position, execute accurate passes, and transition quickly between roles. Encourages movement, decision-making, and proper body positioning when receiving the ball.
y passing drill, movement off the ball, receiving, body positioning, first touch
A passing and movement drill using a Y-shaped cone setup to improve receiving, passing, and dribbling with speed. Players rotate through roles.
Drill Setup
- Use four cones to form a “Y” shape.
- The base cone (#1) is 15 yards from the center cone (#2).
- The top cones (#3 and #4) are 10 yards from the center cone.
- Assign 5-6 players per setup, with one player at each cone and extra players lined up at cone #1.
- Use two balls per Y formation to keep the pace high.
Drill Instructions
- Player 1 (at base) passes to Player 2 (center).
- Player 2 receives with an open body and plays to Player 3 (top left).
- Player 3 dribbles quickly back to cone #1 and passes to the next player in line.
- Players rotate positions by following their pass.
- The sequence repeats with Player 1 passing to Player 2, but this time Player 2 plays to Player 4 (top right).
- Player 4 dribbles back to cone #1 and plays the ball to the next player in line.
- The drill continues with players moving through each position.
Drill Variations
- For multiple Y's set up, have a relay race where each player must complete the passing pattern twice.
- Require one-touch passing for advanced players.
- Increase the passing distance to challenge long-range accuracy.
- Add a time constraint to increase game speed.
- Reverse the passing pattern to develop both feet.
- Add a passive defender at cone #2 to create pressure on Player 2’s first touch.
Drill Coaching Points
- Emphasize receiving with an open body to play forward quickly.
- Encourage firm, accurate passes to keep the drill flowing.
- Focus on quick decision-making and scanning before receiving.
- Ensure players dribble at speed when returning to the start.
- Reinforce communication and awareness to execute clean rotations.
Equipment
Drill Ages
Soccer Drill Skill Focus
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