
Create a circle with 8-10 cones. Adjust the size of the circle based on age level, but make it approximately 15-20 yards. Divide the group into two different teams. Have one player from each team play in the center, with the other players spread out around the circle at the various cones. The players in the middle play 1v1 possession. If the defender wins the ball, the roles are reversed. There are 3 different variations that can be played. VARIATION #1: When needed, the player with the ball passes to a teammate who then dribbles into the circle to play 1v1 against the defender. The player that was in the center takes the other players place at the cone. VARIATION #2: When needed, the player with the ball passes to a teammate who then dribbles into the circle to play 1v1 against the defender. The player that was in the center turns and goes to a DIFFERENT empty cone. VARIATION #3: When needed, the player with the ball passes to a teammate. The player that was in the center can either go to an open cone or move into space to receive a pass back.
Focus on defensive principles: Delay, Destroy, Develop. Delay - Delay the attacker and sait for an opportunity to win the ball. Destroy - Look for opportunities to tackle the ball and win possession. Develop - When the defender wins the ball, they become the attacker and need to keep possession, not just kick the ball away.
This practice has no coaching points
This practice has no progressions
The 2026 World Cup is nearly upon us. Here is Sportplan's preview for the tournament on who we think is going to do well and which teams to look out for.
Discover our new Coaching Trends section - in-depth articles covering the latest tactics, techniques and innovations across Football, Hockey, Cricket, Rugby, Netball, Basketball, Tennis, Handball and Volleyball.
Save yourself a scare this Halloween and ensure your session runs smoothly. No chaos, no fright, just structure.