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ShootingBeginner

Stationary Ball Shooting

Players shoot from a stationary ball — the most basic shooting drill, perfect for U6–U8 players learning technique for the first time.

8 min
2–8 players
Goal, 4–6 balls

Objective

Learn the fundamental shooting technique with a still ball before progressing to moving ball drills.

Stationary Ball Shooting youth soccer drill demonstration

Visual Concept

SBall placed — focus on formStationary Ball ShootingBeginner: technique from still ball

Top-down diagram — Shooting drill layout

Setup

Place a ball on the ground 8 yards from goal. Player stands 3 steps behind the ball. No goalkeeper to start.

How to Run It

1

Approach the ball

Take 3 steps back and slightly to the side of the ball (right-footed players step left).

2

Plant foot

Step beside the ball with the non-kicking foot, pointing at the goal.

3

Strike through the middle

Kick through the middle of the ball with the laces. Follow through toward the goal.

4

Repeat and improve

Each player takes 5 shots, then swap. Focus on one coaching point at a time.

Coaching Cues

Approach at a slight angle — not straight on

Non-kicking foot points at the target

Strike the middle of the ball for a low shot

Follow through — don't stop your leg after contact

Variations

  • Move the ball to different angles around the goal
  • Add a goalkeeper once technique is solid
  • Challenge: 3 goals from 5 shots to move to the next distance

More Shooting Drills

Intermediate

Shooting Gallery

Players receive a pass from the side and shoot first-time at goal, alternating feet each rep.

12 min 4–8
View Drill
Advanced

Volley Practice

Coach or partner tosses the ball for players to volley on goal. Focus on technique and clean contact.

15 min 2–6
View Drill
Intermediate

1v1 vs Keeper

Attacker receives a through ball and must beat the goalkeeper in a 1v1 situation.

10 min 3–8
View Drill