Learning to control the soccer ball is an essential skill for any aspiring young soccer player. Good ball control allows players to maintain possession, pass accurately, and perform impressive moves on the field. In this blog post, we’ll explore a variety of fun drills and games designed to help kids improve their ball control skills while enjoying the process.

Let’s dive in and discover some exciting soccer activities!

 

Dribbling Obstacle Course

Set up a course with cones, hoops, and other objects that players can navigate through while dribbling the ball. Encourage kids to use both feet and incorporate quick turns and changes of direction. Time them to add a competitive element, and challenge them to beat their own records.

 

Toe Taps Challenge

Have players stand in one place and alternate tapping the ball rapidly with the top of their feet (toe taps). Start with a slow tempo and gradually increase the speed. This drill improves foot-eye coordination and develops a light touch on the ball.

 

Soccer Tennis

Create a mini tennis court using a net or a rope stretched between two poles. Players work in pairs and use only their feet, knees, chest, and head to keep the ball in play over the net. The objective is to hit the ball back and forth without letting it touch the ground on their side.

 

Juggling Contest

Juggling is a fantastic way to enhance ball control. Challenge kids to see how many times they can juggle the ball without it touching the ground. They can start by using their feet and progress to incorporating other body parts. Encourage friendly competitions to motivate them to improve.

 

Pass and Control

Pair up kids and have them pass the ball back and forth using different surfaces of their feet. After receiving the pass, they must control the ball and quickly return it. Encourage accuracy and crisp passing, emphasizing the importance of a soft first touch to maintain possession.

 

Simon Says

Put a soccer twist on the classic game “Simon Says.” As the leader, call out various ball control commands like “Simon says juggle with your knees” or “Simon says perform five toe taps.” The players must follow the commands accurately and quickly. Those who make mistakes can perform a fun penalty exercise, like a silly dance or a quick sprint.

 

Dribble Races

Organize races where players dribble the ball from one point to another, either individually or in teams. Incorporate obstacles and turns to test their dribbling skills. To add more excitement, set up a knockout format, eliminating the slowest players in each round until you have a champion.

Developing soccer ball control skills should be a fun and enjoyable experience for kids. By incorporating these drills and games into their training routine, they can enhance their ability to manipulate the ball with precision and confidence. Remember to create a positive and supportive environment, where kids feel encouraged to take risks and improve at their own pace. Happy practicing!

For more sports content, watch “Episode Five – Go Big or Go Home!” of Happy Camper Live: 365 Days Of Camp, free on Kidoodle TV.