Outside-Outside Drill: Building Lateral Ball Control and Agility
Age Group: Suitable for Young Children
Practice Area: 3-4 meters
Ball Size: 3 or 4
Objective
The Outside-Outside drill aims to improve lateral ball control, agility, and dynamic movement. By using only the outside of both feet, young players develop essential ball-handling skills and enhance their ability to move fluidly across the field.
Instructions
Setup
- Mark a 3-4 meter practice area using cones or markers.
Starting Position
- Stand with the ball at your feet in the designated space.
Execution
- Use the outside of one foot to gently move the ball to the side.
- Quickly switch to the outside of the other foot to push the ball back to the opposite side.
- Repeat this side-to-side movement pattern, keeping the ball under close control at all times.
Body Position
- Maintain a low stance by bending your knees slightly more than usual.
- Keep your body balanced to improve control and agility during the drill.
Rhythm and Control
- Aim for fluid, rhythmic movements.
- Keep the ball close to your feet, moving it briskly while maintaining control.
Repetitions and Sets
- Perform 30 repetitions of side-to-side movements (one left-to-right counts as one repetition).
- Complete 5 sets with short breaks between each set.
Equipment Needed
- A soccer ball (size 3 or 4).
- A flat, safe area free from obstacles.
Safety Tips
- Ensure the practice space is clear of hazards or distractions.
- Wear proper sports footwear to provide stability and grip.
Progress Tracking
- Observe the player’s ability to maintain ball control while staying balanced in a low stance.
- Over time, the movements should become smoother and faster with consistent practice.
Challenge
- Encourage the player to increase the speed of their movements while maintaining control of the ball.
- Introduce a timer to make it more engaging: see how many side-to-side movements they can perform in a set timeframe without losing control.
Fun Tip
Turn the drill into a game by setting goals or awarding points for maintaining a smooth rhythm. This keeps the activity enjoyable while building essential soccer skills.
This engaging drill is a great way to develop lateral control and dynamic movement while keeping young players motivated and active!
