5 Lines of players are lined up along GLE (Lines in Order: Offense, Defense, Offense, Goal, Defense, Offense). A cone is placed 5 yards on the outside of the first and last offense lines, a cone is placed at the top of the box in front of the inner offense line (distance can vary on age and speed of drill). When whistle is blown, the outer offense and defense must run around the outside cones and drop into the whole of the field, the inner offense must run around the top cone and receive a ball to play to a goal or dead ball.
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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!
2v1 Ground Balls
Set three lines 2 yards apart: two teammates on the outside lines, one defender in the middle line. Coach rolls a ball toward the middle. First teammate scoops the ball; second teammate positions between ball and defender, using body and stick to shield. Communicate and work together to win possession. Can vary angles or progress to a “go to goal” scenario.
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.
3v2 Out and Back
Set three offensive players (Player 1, 3, 5) and two defensive players (Player 2, 4) on half field. Offense passes upfield, moving quickly through midline. Defense sprints to midline, forms a tight stack in the “hole,” communicates, and contests passes. Offense stays spread, draws defenders, and looks for high-percentage shots. Rotate players through all lines for full engagement.
Slow Break Trailer Shooting
Develop slow-break offense with an emphasis on finding trailing players cutting to the point for open shots. Balls start at 2 low cones. Those players dodge at GLE, looking to throw back or roll back. Two lines up top drift into the box, cut down on the slow break, catch the feed, and finish. Rotate to a different line each rep. Variation: Change dodge and slow-break locations. Add defenders to work on cutting and getting free.
4 Corner Over the Shoulder GB's and Passes
Improve catching on the run, over-the-shoulder grabs, hand switching, and throwing to the box area. Mark 4 corners with cones, at least 3 players per corner. Start with one ball rotating counterclockwise — catch over the left shoulder, pass with the right hand. Switch directions halfway to work the other hand. Add more balls as skill allows. For ground ball reps, players in line wait for a "break" call, then get a ball rolled to them while moving upfield. Variation: Alternate between passes and ground balls. Have players sprint the sides and jog the top for added conditioning. Blow a whistle to reverse direction and keep players sharp.
3v3 to 4v4 to 5v5
- Start with a setup 3v3 in a high triangle shape, play through a bit, with emphasis on holding your shape - Play 3v3 for a bit then add 1 defender and 1 attacker. Shape should be in a box now, play through - Add 1 defender and 1 attacker and move into a house shape - Introduce pass pick away, pass cut through - Overall, make sure we continue moving
Riding Drill 2-1-3 V with Dead ball off Sideline
Improve riding after a dead ball on the sideline. Lock your players onto the clearing team's attack and midfield. Play a 3-man zone with your attack, splitting the goalie and defensemen. Overload the ball side and force long passes or throws into traffic. Variation: Strengthen the clear to practice forcing turnovers in live situations.