Dribbling · 7–12 minutes
Traffic-light dribbling
Prepare close control, scanning, and safe changes of speed through simple visual cues.
U6–U124–24 playersBall masteryScanningFocus & reflection
●●↗↙
20 × 20 yard grid
Players dribble freely while the coach holds up colored cones where everyone can see them.
- Players
- 4–24
- Equipment
- 1 ball per player · red, yellow, and green cones · boundary cones
- Green means move with the ball, yellow means small slow touches, and red means controlled stop.
- Add a turn color or let a player lead the signals.
- Finish with green-to-open-space accelerations while players avoid traffic.
Gradual intensity
- Walk and learn colors
- React at a jog
- Add short accelerations
- See the signal
- Stop the ball, not the body
- Accelerate into clear space
Make it easier
Use only red and green with walking speed.
Add a stretch
Let colors represent turns, surfaces, or partner actions tied to the practice focus.
Same idea, different entry
- U6–U8Use one simple action, 30–45 second rounds, generous space, and no elimination.
- U9–U10Add one visual decision cue and let players choose their response.
- U11–U12Link the action to scanning and the session focus, then finish with controlled acceleration or pressure.
Safety check
Use visual and spoken signals, avoid sudden all-out sprints, and keep every player active without elimination.
If it breaks down
- Players stare at the coach; move the signal and praise scanning between touches.
- Stops become collisions; enlarge the grid and use gradual speed.