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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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)
4 corner 1v1
-4 lines, 2 top 2 bottom both sides of court. -1v1 at each corner in order L1, L2, R2, R1 -each corner has 5 seconds to get shot off or strip ball -1v1 does not start until D1 has touched Offender glove with stick -remind players of defensive positioning, push away from center -Progression depending on skill: allow starting position for offence to have topside option and defender has to regain that control.
One-Handed Shooting
Set players in a line with a feeder near the goal. Player A cuts along a designated lane, receiving a timed pass from the feeder while practicing quick footwork and cradle. They catch, absorb momentum, and execute a one-handed shot with proper rotation. After shooting, they rotate to the end or a recovery spot. Player B begins their cut as Player A finishes, creating continuous flow.
Hungry Hippo Relay
Relay race format with 8 kids per line. Coach rolls ground ball, youth player scoops and sprints to dunk ball in bucket, returns to line and sits. Team that finishes first wins. Run best-of-three format. Emphasizes ground ball technique while maintaining fun competitive element. Simple setup: lines, buckets, multiple balls. Keeps practice engaging and fun through relay race excitement and friendly competition.
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.