Clean the Circle
Purpose
This drill aims to develop dribbling and defensive skills, encouraging players to think quickly and adapt under pressure during gameplay.
Setup
- Mark out a circular area with a radius of around 25 yards, adjustable for skill level.
- Allocate soccer balls to most players, with 2-3 players acting as defenders without balls.
- Position a small goal at the center of the circle to be targeted by the defenders.
- Start with all active players dribbling inside the circle.
How To Play
- Dribblers aim to maintain possession of their balls while maneuvering within the circle, avoiding defenders.
- Defenders attempt to steal the balls from dribblers and score by shooting into the central goal.
- Upon successfully scoring, the dribbler that lost possession transfers to defense.
- The exercise continues until only one dribbler remains.
Coaching Points
- Coach dribblers to use varied movements, such as feints and changes in pace, to elude defenders.
- Emphasize the need for defenders to position themselves strategically to intercept balls.
- Highlight the importance of quick transitions from defense to offense after winning possession.
- Urge dribblers to communicate and strategize with one another to keep possession.