Truck And Trailer | Turning Drill
This turning drill for young players is a great way to introduce some basic soccer turns in a fun game-like setting whilst igniting players imaginations!
Turning Drill – Truck And Trailer
Set Up The Drill
Set up a 20×20 yard grid using small cones. Split players up into pairs, numbering them ‘1’ and ‘2’. Inform player number 1 that they will start as the ‘truck’ and player number 2 that they will start as the ‘trailer’. Give each player a ball.
Instructions
To warm up player number 1 (the truck) dribbles their ball around the area whilst player number 2 (the trailer) sticks as close to him/her as possible (whilst also dribbling their ball). Tell the players that you’ll award points for trucks and trailers that stay close, maintain good control and travel quickly. Have the pairs work for 90 seconds before switching roles and then introduce the following commands for the players to act upon;
When the coach calls ‘heavy traffic’ players must use a designated turn (such as the drag back, inside hook or outside hook) to turn 180 degrees and then switch roles.
When the coach calls ‘Trailer’ the current designated trailer leaves his/her ball and tries to steal their partner’s ball.
When the coach calls ‘Truck’ the current designated truck leaves his/her ball and tries to steal their partner’s ball.
When The coach calls ‘Race Night’ the players race to the outside of the area, make a turn and then race back to coach.
Variation
Select a player to be a ‘Runaway Truck’ who upon your call runs around and tries to kick everyone’s ball out of the grid. Once a player’s ball is kicked out they become a truck also. Players must make loud honking noises like a runaway truck as they move around the grid.
Coaching Points
- Correct execution of the drag back, inside and outside hook.
- Slow down going into the turn and then accelerate out of it.
- Try to keep your head up whilst dribbling & be aware of your surroundings.
- Go as fast as you can without losing control of the ball!
