10 Insane Ball Control Drills Every Kid Needs to Know!
Ball control is the foundation of soccer skills, and mastering it at a young age is essential for any aspiring player. Whether your child dreams of becoming the next soccer star or simply wants to improve their game, ball control drills are the key to success. The following drills focus on footwork, technique, and agility, all designed to improve ball control, coordination, and overall soccer performance. These drills are insane not just because they’re challenging but because of how quickly they can transform a player’s ability to control the ball.
1. The Toe Touches Drill
The toe touches drill is one of the most basic yet highly effective drills for improving ball control. It involves tapping the top of the ball lightly with the toes of each foot, alternating rapidly while standing in one spot. This drill helps young players get comfortable with touching the ball quickly and lightly. It also enhances coordination between the feet and improves balance.
To perform this drill, place the ball in front of your feet and begin tapping the top of the ball, switching between your right and left foot in a steady rhythm. Start slowly, then gradually increase speed as you become more comfortable.
Pro tip: Do this drill for 30 seconds to a minute per set, aiming for 3-4 sets.
2. Tic-Tocs (Pendulum Taps)
Tic-tocs, also known as pendulum taps, involve moving the ball between your feet using the insides of your feet in a continuous motion. This drill enhances ball control, precision, and touch, as players must ensure the ball remains between their feet without losing control.
To perform the drill, stand with your feet hip-width apart and tap the ball back and forth between your feet. As you improve, increase the pace of your touches. This drill is especially useful for younger kids as it teaches them how to stay light on their feet while controlling the ball.
Pro tip: Aim for a rhythm of one touch per second to start, then gradually increase speed.
3. Figure 8 Dribble
The figure 8 dribble is a more advanced ball control drill, requiring good foot coordination and sharp turns. It’s a great way to teach kids how to maneuver the ball around tight spaces and improve dribbling control.
To set up, place two cones or markers about 2-3 feet apart. The player should dribble the ball in a figure 8 pattern around the cones. The key to this drill is maintaining close control of the ball while keeping the head up to be aware of surroundings.
Pro tip: Focus on using both feet to dribble around the cones and switch up your starting foot for balanced development.
4. Outside Inside Touch Drill
The outside inside touch drill improves ball control by teaching players how to manipulate the ball with both the inside and outside of their feet. It also helps players get accustomed to changing direction quickly while keeping the ball close.
To do this drill, dribble the ball forward using the outside of one foot, then quickly shift to the inside of the same foot to cut back. Alternate feet after each touch, and make sure to keep the ball close to your feet.
Pro tip: This drill works best when done at a moderate speed to build up muscle memory for game situations.
5. The L-Cut
The L-Cut is an advanced ball control drill that requires sharp movements and quick decision-making. It helps young players develop agility, coordination, and an ability to change direction while keeping the ball under control.
To perform the L-Cut, pull the ball back with the sole of one foot while turning in the opposite direction to create an L-shape movement. Repeat this process alternating between feet.
Pro tip: This drill is excellent for improving the ability to shield the ball from opponents while maintaining control.
6. Roll-Tap Combos
The roll-tap combo is a great drill for working on touch, control, and coordination. It teaches kids to manipulate the ball with different parts of their foot, helping them get comfortable with more complex ball movements.
Start by rolling the ball across your body with the sole of one foot, then tap it back in the opposite direction with the inside of the same foot. Alternate between feet, increasing speed as you improve.
Pro tip: Do this drill in sets of 30 seconds to build endurance and precision.
7. Sole Taps
Sole taps, also called “pull-backs,” are a drill where players repeatedly tap the ball with the sole of their foot while pulling it slightly backward. It strengthens control over the ball using the sole and enhances the player’s ability to slow down or change direction quickly.
To perform the drill, place the ball under one foot and tap it slightly back towards your body. Switch feet after every touch and build up speed over time.
Pro tip: Do 30-60 second intervals for maximum effect. Focus on keeping your knees slightly bent for better balance.
8. V-Pullback Drill
The V-Pullback is another essential ball control drill that teaches young players how to change direction effectively. It involves pulling the ball back with the sole of the foot and pushing it forward in the shape of a V.
To start, place the ball in front of you. Use the sole of one foot to pull the ball back, then push it diagonally forward with the inside of the same foot. Repeat the motion with the other foot.
Pro tip: Perform this drill in sets of 20-30 repetitions to build mastery.
9. Cone Dribbling Drills
Cone dribbling is a classic drill that improves agility and close ball control. By weaving in and out of a set of cones, kids can enhance their ability to maneuver the ball in tight spaces while developing both foot speed and coordination.
Set up five to ten cones about two feet apart. The player should dribble through the cones using both feet, keeping the ball close and under control. As you progress, decrease the space between the cones for more of a challenge.
Pro tip: Focus on keeping your head up to simulate real-game scenarios where players need to see the field while dribbling.
10. 1v1 Dribbling Challenge
The 1v1 dribbling challenge is a great way to put ball control skills into practice in a competitive environment. In this drill, a player must try to dribble past a defender while maintaining possession of the ball. This drill not only works on ball control but also on decision-making under pressure.
To set up, mark a small playing area and assign one player as the attacker and another as the defender. The attacker must try to dribble past the defender and get to the opposite side without losing the ball.
Pro tip: Rotate between attackers and defenders to improve both offensive and defensive skills.
Why Ball Control Matters for Kids
Ball control is one of the most critical skills in soccer. Without it, even the fastest or most physically fit players will struggle to perform well on the field. Ball control drills like the ones listed above are not only fun and challenging, but they also teach young players how to stay calm under pressure and manage the ball with precision.
As kids develop better ball control, they will find themselves more confident on the field, capable of making better decisions, and ready to take their soccer skills to the next level.
How Often Should Kids Practice These Drills?
Consistency is key when it comes to soccer training. While kids should aim to practice ball control drills regularly, it’s important to avoid burnout. Depending on the child’s age and commitment level, practicing 3-5 times a week for 30-45 minutes per session is ideal for steady progress. Make sure to incorporate breaks and balance ball control drills with other soccer skills like shooting, passing, and defending.
Mastering Ball Control for Success
Mastering ball control is a journey that requires patience, dedication, and plenty of practice. The drills in this guide are designed to keep kids engaged, challenged, and motivated to improve their soccer skills. By focusing on drills that teach touch, agility, and precision, young players can gain a solid foundation that will benefit them for years to come. Whether it’s a simple toe touch or an intense 1v1 dribbling challenge, these insane ball control drills are essential for any child who dreams of becoming a better soccer player.
