The give and go is the first team move kids learn. It’s pass, move, receive. Simple but it teaches timing and off-ball movement. In a real game, this move splits defenses.
What you need: 1 soccer ball. 2 kids. 25 feet of space.
Setup: Two kids 10 feet apart. Starting line is 15 feet behind them.
How to run it:
- Kid with the ball passes to partner using Plant, Open, Strike, Follow.
- Immediately after the pass, the passer sprints forward past the partner.
- Partner receives the ball, sees the run, and passes it to the runner’s feet.
- Runner receives and keeps going 10 more feet.
- Do 5 give and goes, then switch roles.
What to watch: Does the passer run immediately or hesitate? Immediate movement is the key.
If they’re struggling: Slow the run down. Walk through it first without the ball.
If they’ve got it: Add a defender 5 feet behind the ball carrier. Defender tries to intercept the return pass.