dribbling · U10+
Two teams compete to see who can get three of their own marks in a row first. Build a 3 x 3 grid with cones, one cone for each square. The starting cone should be about 10-15 meters away from the bottom of the grid, with two lines behind it. Each player has one marker in their team's color, and the first in line has a ball. Both teams start at the same time. The player in turn carries the ball to the edge of the grid, leaves the ball there, and runs into the grid. They leave their marker in one free square, return to the ball, and carry it back to the front of the line. The next player starts as soon as the ball is in place, and the previous player goes to the back of the line. The team wins when it has three markers in a row, column, or diagonal. There are three markers per team, so each square should be considered carefully. If neither team gets a row, collect the markers and start over. For younger players, shorten the distance. Lengthen it if you want more running.
In open space, longer and less frequent touches with the instep, toes pointing towards the ground. Head up and using peripheral vision on the ball, looking at the grid already during the carry. Controlled stop of the ball at the drop-off point so it doesn't roll away. Weight on the balls of the feet, and sharp change of rhythm from carrying to running.
When do you look at the grid: before starting, during the carry, or only when you arrive? How does a longer touch fit into open space, and what changes as you approach the drop-off point?
Tic-Tac-Toe is a football drill on TacticsBoard. Category: dribbling. Age group: U10+. Browse more football drills or create your own for free.