Share via

Purpose:

In this ball control drill, players are forced to mimic the direction of the person in front of them as a trailer follows its truck.

Setup

Two players are partnered together with two balls.

This drill will help players learn to workin close quarters and to quickly react to what others are doing and still keep control of the ball.

Execution:

  • As a truck and trailer would do, one player must follow the other.
  • The player in front is the truck and must dribble the ball, change directions, sprint, stop, turn the ball, and any other desired movements.
  • The player behind is the trailer and must keep within a few short paces of the truck.
  • To complicate the drill further, add a tandem trailer.

Coaching Tips:

  • This forces a player to watch what the player ahead of them is doing, but also to maintain control of the ball so they can follow the player closely enough.
  • You might think this drill is simple, but it can actually be used at all levels. It is far more difficult than a coach might think, but it develops excellent ball control skills.

Tips for Younger Athletes:

  • Emphasize keeping the ball close to their feet while dribbling. Young players often struggle with controlling the ball, so reinforcing the importance of touch and control is key.
  • Teach younger players to be aware of their surroundings. This includes keeping an eye on the ‘truck’ player while also being conscious of their own space and the ball.
  • Use the drill to improve reaction times. Encourage the ‘trailer’ to quickly adapt to the ‘truck’s’ movements, fostering agility and responsiveness.
  • Simplify movements for beginners. Start with basic moves like straight dribbling or gentle turns before progressing to more complex maneuvers.
  • Encourage teamwork and communication. Young players should learn to communicate effectively with their partner, signaling intentions and changes in direction.

Tips for Older Athletes:

  • Introduce advanced ball control techniques. Encourage players to incorporate more challenging dribbling skills like step-overs or quick changes in direction.
  • Focus on high-intensity movements. For older players, increase the speed and intensity of the drill, emphasizing stamina and endurance.
  • Use this drill to enhance decision-making skills. Older players should be able to anticipate the ‘truck’s’ movements and react accordingly, improving their on-field decision-making.
  • Incorporate physical conditioning. Older athletes can use this drill to work on their physical fitness, combining soccer skills with elements of endurance and strength training.
  • Stress the importance of precision and accuracy. Instruct older players to maintain precise control of the ball even at higher speeds and under pressure.
Share via