Share via

Purpose:

Defenders practice individual tackling and defensive skills.

Setup:

Create a 20-yard square with a goal at one end.

Defender closes down on attacker and tries to prevent him or her from getting a shot off.

Instructions: 

  1. Put a line of defenders by the goal and a line of attackers at the opposite endline.
  2. First defender serves the ball to first attacker and they go one-on-one as the defender tries to stop the attacker from shooting on goal.
  3. Defender wins if he or she steals the ball or keeps the attacker from shooting for 10 seconds.
  4. Attacker gets a point if they can get a shot at goal.
  5. Attacker goes to defender line and defender goes to attacker line.

Coaching Tips: 

  • Coaches should emphasize the importance of maintaining balance and quick, shuffling footwork for the defenders. This allows them to change direction rapidly in response to the attacker’s movements.
  • Encourage defenders to anticipate the attacker’s movements by reading their body language and the direction of the ball. This can give them an edge in reacting promptly.
  • Teach defenders to angle their approach to force the attacker toward the sidelines rather than allowing a direct path to the goal. This reduces the attacker’s shooting angles.

Tips for Younger Athletes:

  • Make sure that young athletes understand the importance of tackling safely to avoid injuries. They should be taught to tackle with their feet and to avoid contact with the attacker’s body.
  • Younger athletes can be taught to understand their position relative to the goal and the attacker, using their position to guide the attacker away from dangerous areas.
  • Keep the drill light and fun, encouraging young defenders by praising good attempts and providing constructive feedback on how to improve their technique.

Tips for Older Athletes:

  • For older athletes, you can add a stamina element by increasing the time they need to prevent the attacker from shooting, thus improving their endurance and persistence.
  • Encourage defenders to use the sideline as an extra “defender” by herding the attacker towards it, making it harder for the attacker to find space or an angle for a shot.
  • Teach older athletes about recovery runs and how to transition quickly from an attacking role to a defensive stance when the roles are switched from attacker to defender in the drill.
Share via