Before kids move or receive passes, they shoot a still ball. The ball is not moving. They are in complete control. This is about building confidence and aim.

What you need: 1 soccer ball, 2 cones (4 feet apart forming a goal), open space.

Setup: Goal is 12 feet away. Child stands with the ball in front of the goal.

How to run it:

  1. Child positions the ball in front of them.
  2. Using Plant, Lock, Strike, Finish cue: plant the non-kick foot beside the ball, lock the ankle toe down, strike with the laces, follow through landing on shooting foot.
  3. Child strikes the ball toward the goal.
  4. Ball either goes in or misses. No pressure.
  5. Do 10 shots total.

What to watch: Did they plant the non-kick foot and lock their ankle? These two things create power and accuracy.

If they’re struggling: Move closer to 8 feet. Use a softer ball.

If they’ve got it: Move back to 15 feet. Make the goal smaller (2 feet wide instead of 4).