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DribblingIntermediate

Speed Dribble Relay

Teams race to dribble to a cone and back as fast as possible. Builds speed with the ball and competitive edge.

12 min
6–16 players
Cones, 1 ball per team

Objective

Develop dribbling speed and the ability to maintain control at pace in a competitive team format.

Speed Dribble Relay youth soccer drill demonstration

Visual Concept

12Speed Dribble RelayTeams race to cone and back

Top-down diagram — Dribbling drill layout

Setup

Split players into teams of 3–4. Each team lines up behind a start cone. A turnaround cone is placed 15 yards ahead.

How to Run It

1

Explain the relay

First player dribbles to the far cone, goes around it, and dribbles back. They pass the ball to the next player by hand or with a pass.

2

First race

Run a straight speed dribble relay — fastest team wins.

3

Add a slalom

Place 3 cones between start and turnaround. Players must weave through them both ways.

4

Weak foot round

Final race using only the weaker foot — slower but great for development.

Coaching Cues

Push the ball ahead in open space — don't take tiny touches when you have room

Slow down around the cones — control beats speed there

Stay low when turning around the far cone

Encourage your teammates — team energy matters

Variations

  • Add a specific move (step-over, Cruyff) at the turnaround cone
  • Increase the distance for older/faster groups
  • Individual time trial — beat your personal best

More Dribbling Drills

Beginner

Cone Slalom Dribble

Players weave through a line of cones using both feet, focusing on close ball control at speed.

10 min 1–4
View Drill
Beginner

Inside-Outside Touch

Alternate inside and outside touches while moving forward. Great for developing natural ball feel.

8 min 1–6
View Drill
Intermediate

1v1 Moves Practice

Players practice step-overs, scissors, and body feints before taking on a passive defender.

15 min 2–8
View Drill