Objective

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.

Equipment Needed

Disc Cones/Markers Soccer Balls

Setup

  1. Use four cones to form a “Y” shape.
  2. The base cone (#1) is 15 yards from the center cone (#2).
  3. The top cones (#3 and #4) are 10 yards from the center cone.
  4. Assign 5-6 players per setup, with one player at each cone and extra players lined up at cone #1.
  5. Use two balls per Y formation to keep the pace high.

Instructions

  1. Player 1 (at base) passes to Player 2 (center).
  2. Player 2 receives with an open body and plays to Player 3 (top left).
  3. Player 3 dribbles quickly back to cone #1 and passes to the next player in line.
  4. Players rotate positions by following their pass.
  5. The sequence repeats with Player 1 passing to Player 2, but this time Player 2 plays to Player 4 (top right).
  6. Player 4 dribbles back to cone #1 and plays the ball to the next player in line.
  7. The drill continues with players moving through each position.

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.

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.