Jockeying Technique
Defenders practice the art of jockeying — staying goal-side, staying balanced, and slowing the attacker without diving in.
Objective
Teach defenders to delay attackers and stay on their feet rather than diving in.
Watch It In Action
Visual Concept
Top-down diagram — Defending drill layout
Setup
Mark a 10x5 yard channel. Attacker starts at one end with the ball. Defender starts 2 yards in front of them.
How to Run It
Defender sets their stance
Defender gets side-on, weight on the back foot, arms out for balance. Stay between the attacker and the goal.
Attacker walks forward
Attacker walks slowly toward the defender. Defender retreats, maintaining a 1-yard gap, staying side-on.
Attacker jogs
Attacker increases pace. Defender must stay goal-side and not dive in.
Attacker tries to beat
Attacker now tries to dribble past. Defender jockeys and only tackles when the attacker's touch is heavy.
Coaching Cues
Stay side-on — don't face the attacker square
Don't dive in — be patient and wait for the right moment
Keep your weight on your back foot so you can react
Force the attacker onto their weaker foot
Variations
- Add a goal at the end of the channel to make it competitive
- Defender must force the attacker to a specific side
- Two defenders jockeying in sequence
Gear for This Drill
Everything you need to run Jockeying Technique — shop on Amazon with one click.
Classic tall cones for slalom drills, grids, and field marking.
Standard for U9–U12. Great for skill development and drill work.
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Browse all gearEquipment Needed
- Cones
- 1 ball per pair
Shop This Drill
Classic tall cones for slalom drills, grids, and field marking.
View on AmazonStandard for U9–U12. Great for skill development and drill work.
View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Tags
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Defender mirrors attacker's movements without tackling. Builds defensive footwork and awareness.