Tue, 21 January

Spatial Awareness

Skill Finisher

Stamina and Pick-Up Drill

This drill combines physical endurance with technical precision, making it an excellent way to condition players while sharpening their core skills.

Objective:

To improve stamina, agility, and clean pick-up skills using both the left and right foot. This drill also encourages speed, precision, and decision-making under pressure.

Setup:

  1. Area:
    • Set up a straight line of poles spaced 5m apart (e.g., 3-5 poles, depending on player numbers and fitness level).
    • Place cones 5m to the left and right of each pole, forming a zig-zag pattern of alternating cones and poles.
  2. Equipment:
    • Footballs:
      • At the 1st pole, place one ball on either side (left and right).
      • For the subsequent poles, alternate ball placement between the cones and poles.
      • Example Setup:
        • Pole 1: Balls at the pole on both sides.
        • Pole 2: Balls at the cones on both sides.
        • Pole 3: Balls at the pole on both sides (repeat the pattern).
  3. Groups:
    • Divide players into two equal groups, standing 10m behind the first pole (one group on the left and one on the right).

How It Works:

  1. Starting Action:
    • On the coach’s call, the first player from each group sprints to the first pole.
  2. Pick-Up Sequence:
    • Right-Side Player:
      • Starts at the pole on the right.
      • Picks up the ball using the right foot, runs to the cone directly opposite, and places the ball there.
      • Sprints forward to the next cone, picks up the ball using the left foot, and brings it to the pole directly opposite.
    • Left-Side Player:
      • Does the same but mirrors the movement on the left side, starting with the left foot at the pole.
  3. Continuous Rotation:
    • Players work their way through all the poles and cones, switching balls between poles and cones as described.
    • After completing the sequence, the next player in line starts.
  4. Switch Back:
    • When the second player goes, they return the balls to their original starting positions (e.g., balls at poles are brought back to cones, and vice versa).
    • Repeat until all players in the group have completed the drill.

Key Coaching Poinst:

  1. Clean Pick-Ups:
    • Players should focus on using the correct foot for the pick-up (e.g., right foot on the right side, left foot on the left side).
    • Emphasize good body posture: bend knees, get low, and scoop the ball cleanly without fumbling.
  2. Speed and Stamina:
    • Players should move as quickly as possible while maintaining control over their movements and ball handling.
  3. Agility and Direction Changes:
    • Sharp, controlled turns when transitioning between poles and cones.
    • Ensure players don’t lose momentum during direction changes.
  4. Effort and Competition:
    • Encourage players to give maximum effort to simulate game intensity.
    • Add an element of competition by timing each group or rewarding the fastest players.

Variations:

  1. Timed Rounds:
    • Set a time limit (e.g., 1 minute) and see how many balls each group can switch between poles and cones.
  2. Add Obstacles:
    • Introduce hurdles or ladders between the poles and cones for added difficulty.
  3. Team Relay:
    • Players work in pairs or as a team to complete the sequence faster than the opposing group.
  4. Tired Decision-Making:
    • After each pick-up, players must make a quick pass to a teammate before proceeding to the next ball.

Benefits:

  • Improves fitness and stamina through repeated sprints and quick changes of direction.
  • Enhances technical pick-up skills under fatigue, focusing on both left and right foot use.
  • Develops mental focus and precision when switching ball locations.
  • Encourages teamwork, communication, and competitive spirit.