Dribble & Score Multiple Goals
Activity
Field Setup: Designate a large, rectangular playing area and place four small-sized goals at each corner of the area. These goals are targeted by players to score from any angle within the playing field. Ensure that the size of the area is proportional to the number of players, allowing enough space for movement and challenge.
Teams: Organize the players into two or three evenly matched teams based on skill level. Each player starts with a ball at their feet. Teams should be positioned on different sides of the field to start the drill, with each team having a distinct starting point.
Activity: The objective is for each player to dribble their ball toward any of the four goals and score as quickly as possible. Players are free to choose any goal, navigating through the space while maintaining control of their ball. The drill encourages players to be quick, agile, and decisive, rewarding quick finishes and continuous play.
Videos
Coaching Principles
This activity develops players’ ability to keep close control of the ball while in motion, change direction quickly to avoid opponents, and maintain an awareness of their surroundings. It challenges players to assess the field and make split-second decisions to dribble into space or shield the ball from opponents, all while moving toward a position to score.
Coaching Points
Instruct players on the importance of decision-making when dribbling. They should be encouraged to continuously assess the field, recognizing when space is available to accelerate and when it is necessary to change direction to avoid opponents. Emphasize the need for players to understand their position relative to the goals, opponents, and teammates. Players should weigh the risk and reward of every dribble they take, considering whether keeping possession or making a direct play toward the goal is more beneficial to the situation.
Agility is a critical skill in this activity. Players must be able to change direction quickly and effectively to navigate through tight spaces and avoid defenders. Encourage players to use different dribbling techniques, such as cuts, turns, and feints, to evade opponents. They should be light on their feet, ready to adjust their pace and direction in response to the movements of other players.
Emphasize the necessity of close ball control, especially when in close proximity to other players. Teach players how to use their body to shield the ball, placing it on the far side away from opponents, and using their arms and body positioning to protect it. Players should be adept at using their body as a barrier while keeping their eyes up to survey the playing area for opportunities to progress toward a goal.
Reinforce the importance of scanning the field and maintaining spatial awareness. Players need to know where the goals are at all times, where other players are located, and what spaces are opening up as the game progresses. This awareness will allow them to make intelligent plays, whether it’s driving toward an open goal or holding onto possession when pathways are blocked.
Variations & Progressions
Assign goals to each team where they are only allowed to score in two of the four goals, forcing players to traverse the field and avoid each other as they aim for their designated goals.
Utilize colored cones or pinnies to identify goals for specific teams. Players can start from mixed positions and must score in goals that match their team color, adding a level of complexity to their decision-making process.
Incorporate a defender for each team who is tasked with impeding the opposing team’s players from scoring. This defender must strategically position themselves to challenge attackers without overcommitting, simulating a more realistic game-like scenario.