The Numbers Game
The Numbers Game soccer drill focuses on the 1v1 situational play for younger players. This 1v1 drill works on all dynamics of this game such as dribbling, shooting, shielding, turning and beating an opponent.
The Numbers Game - 1v1 Competition
This 1v1 soccer drill focuses on 1v1 situations for younger players and works dribbling, shooting, shielding, turning and beating an opponent.
Drill Setup
- Create a small 1v1 field approximately 15X20 with two small goals on each end line.
- Split the group into two even teams and assign a number to each player in each team. For instance, if you have 5 players in each team, number off 1-5 in each team.
- One group wears an alternate jersey.
Drill Instructions
- The coach plays a ball into the area and calls out a number.
- Those players assigned to that number sprint onto the field and play a 1v1.
- The game continues until a team scores a goal or the ball goes out of bounds.
Drill Variations
- Have more than one 1v1 going at the same time.
- Call out two or more numbers to create a 2v2 or 3v3.
Drill Coaching Points
- Encourage players to take on their opponent.
- Encourage players to shoot when they have a chance of a goal.
- Instruct the players to protect the ball when necessary.
Equipment
- Disc Cones - Mini or Full-Size Disc Cones are a critical piece of equipment that every soccer coach must have in your equipment bag.
- Scrimmage Pinnies/Vests - Scrimmage vests, also called bibs or pinnies, are also another must-have in your soccer coaching equipment bag.
- Soccer Practice or Training Balls - Every player should have a soccer balls at practice to have a successful training session.
- Training Sticks - Training Sticks or Agility Poles
- Pugg Goal - Pugg Goal or Mini Soccer Goal
Drill Ages
- 4 - U4, Under 4, 4 and Under
- 5 - U5, Under 5, 5 and Under
- 6 - U6, Under 6, 6 and Under
- 7 - U7, Under 7, 7 and Under
- 8 - U8, Under 8, 8 and Under
- 9 - U9, Under 9, 9 and Under
- 10 - U10, Under 10, 10 and Under
- 11 - U11, Under 11, 11 and Under
- 12 - U12, Under 12, 12 and Under
- 13 - U13, Under 13, 13 and Under
- 14 - U14, Under 14, 14 and Under
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