The first rule of defense is simple: get between the ball and the goal. Five-year-olds don’t know that naturally. This drill teaches them where to stand.
What you need: 1 soccer ball, 2 kids, 1 small goal or 2 cones, 15 feet of space.
Setup: Goal or cones are 15 feet away. Attacker has the ball. Defender starts 5 feet away.
How to run it:
- Attacker dribbles toward the goal using Touch, Look, Push, Go.
- Defender runs toward the attacker and the goal, positioning themselves between the ball and the goal line.
- Defender doesn’t try to tackle. Just stay in the way.
- After 5 seconds, drill ends.
- Do 3 rounds, then switch roles.
What to watch: Does the defender move toward the goal? Or toward the attacker? They should move toward the goal first.
If they’re struggling: Defender is closer to goal (10 feet away). Less ground to cover.
If they’ve got it: Attacker gets a faster dribble. Defender has to react quicker.