Set up a 20x20 yard box with three offensive players against two defenders. Offense moves and passes within the box, working to keep control of the ball. Defenders work together. One covers the ball, while the other splits the remaining two offensive players to disrupt passing lanes. Play continues as offense tries to maintain possession, and defense tries to create turnovers. Multiple boxes can run simultaneously so all players get turns on offense and defense. Encourage crisp ball movement, smart spacing, and clear communication. Offense should recognize overloads and exploit them, while defense practices teamwork and anticipation. Variations include awarding points for four consecutive passes by offense or interceptions/possession gains by defense to make the drill competitive. Adjust box size or numbers to challenge players further.
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Related Drills
Numbers
Players line up with the offense at the top of the field and the defense on the sides. The coach calls out a set of numbers, such as “43,” where the first number is offensive players and the second number is defensive players. That many players sprint in to compete for the ball and play a live possession, e.g., 43 - 4v3, 55 - 5v5, 32 - 3v2. Variations can adjust the number combinations to create even or uneven matchups.
West Genny
Set three offensive players (Player 1–3) vs. two defenders (Player 4–5) on a short field with a net at each end (sideline-to-sideline OR box-to-box OR similar distance). Play 3v2 until a goal or turnover. The last offensive player to touch the ball rotates out; remaining offense switches to defense and runs back into the hole to defend their net. The goalie clears a new ball to 3 new offensive players pushing down in a 3v2. End practice on a high note and keep score for fun!
Crease Scramble 3v2
Three offensive players and two defenders start at the top of the box. On the coach’s whistle, all five players sprint toward the crease and touch it, simulating a transition or fast-break scenario. Immediately after, the coach rolls a ball into play, creating a 3v2 ground ball situation. Offense must gain possession and attack, emphasizing proper spacing, timing, and finishing under pressure. Defenders focus on communication and rotations.
1v1 Build-Up
- Start with a 1v1 to cage. - Add 1 attacker (2v1) - Add 1 defender (2v2) - Add 1 attacker (3v2) - Add 1 defender (3v3)
Crease breakout
Coach rolls Goalie the ball at crease, goalie scoops up and outlets to runner. As soon as pass is made, player comes from “bench” position and receives pass, goes in for a shot. Set players up above house. When player runs past goalie, coach rolls to goalie for scoop and outlet pass. -Coach needed at each net and near rag lines to pass L1/R1 ball if they miss or goalie flubs pass.
1v1v1 Four Square
- Break up the draw circle into 4 sections - One will be Ace, one will be King, Queen, and Jack - Have 3 players start in each section, subs will start at Jack. Ace is the top section - Coach will throw balls up and on the whistle go in a circle throwing each 1v1v1 a ball (imitating a draw circle) - Whoever wins, goes up a spot, and gets to pick someone to trade spots with. - Whoever wins in the Jack spot, moves up to Queen and picks someone to switch with, and then 2 new players sub on for the 2 that lost. - If you win in the Ace position, you just stay there!
Bears drill
X1 receives pass from goalie then passes to X2 who is already ahead. X2 runs to Half boards (HB). X1 sets pick on invisible defender, opens looking for pass. X2 uses pick and cuts top, passes to X1 for a shot. **Run this with 2 lines at both ends** Evolution: have 2 lines out and a third line on the bench. When X2 passes center, X3 exits front doors and runs in, X2 passes to X3 for a shot. ***Second evolution: coach is in corner and passes to X1 for another shot at goal. Goalie is saving from both sides of court. Coach waits until X3 has released their shot. Goalies need to pay attention.
Perimeter Sprints
Set a team conditioning standard and challenge players to beat it. All players start at one corner of the field. On the whistle, run the full perimeter at a comfortable pace. Record the time. Short break, then challenge the team to beat it. Repeat as conditioning time allows. Variation: Have players cradle balls or run through obstacles around the field.