Long Dribble

Purpose:
As a child is bursting down the field and they have to be able to carry the ball with them. The short dribble requires too much attention and lacks speed.

Setup:
Set up two lines, and extend the area that the players dribble the ball from 10 yards to 40 yards.

Players naturally learn to kick the ball far enough ahead of them so they can progress down field.

Execution:

Have one player in each line start with their dominant leg and kick the ball several yards in front of them and run after it.
Once your players can simultaneously kick and run (dribbling), then you can try it with their non-dominant leg.
Have them wait at the end of the 10-40 yard distance and once each player has gone down, have the players go back to the starting position doing the same dribbling drill.
Cycle through several times until each player has had multiple repetitions.

Coaching Tips:

In order to build the long dribbling skills of your players they need to be taught to kick the ball far enough ahead of them, in stride, so they can take a few full strides when they run.
With practice kids will naturally learn to kick the ball far enough in front of them so they
can run with the ball, rather than have to short dribble the ball ahead of them – taking
much longer.
Teach players the importance of maintaining balance while dribbling. The body should be slightly leaned forward, allowing for quick adjustments and better control when running at speed.
Encourage players to keep their heads up while dribbling. This not only helps in controlling the ball but also in being aware of their surroundings, including opponents and teammates’ positions.
Stress the importance of the first touch. A well-controlled first touch sets the tone for a successful long dribble. The touch should be firm enough to push the ball forward but soft enough to keep it within reach.

Tips for Younger Athletes:

Start with basic dribbling skills. Ensure younger players are comfortable with dribbling shorter distances before introducing long dribbles.
Make the drill fun and engaging. Use games and challenges to keep younger players interested and motivated.
Use positive reinforcement. Praise younger players for their efforts and improvements, irrespective of their skill level.
Tips for Older Athletes:
For older players, focus on advanced ball control techniques. Introduce drills that require them to change direction quickly while maintaining control of the ball.
Teach older players to make quick decisions during long dribbles, such as when to pass or when to accelerate past a defender.
Incorporate physical conditioning into the drill. Older players should have the stamina and strength to maintain control of the ball over longer distances at higher speeds.