tooptimeTIME TO PLAY
Soccer drills

Gate explorer dribbling

Use this activity to work on dribbling through repeated decisions with the ball. Start with the simpler version, watch the first round, and adjust the space or pressure to match the players in front of you.

By ToopTime · Updated 2026-09-21U6–U8 · U9–U10
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At a glance
Players4–12
Starting space15 × 20 yards; six two-yard gates
Suggested time6–10 minutes, including short breaks
EquipmentBalls, flat cones, bibs when teams are used

Set it up

Each player has a ball. Scatter gates at different angles, leaving space between them.

How to play

Dribble through a gate, turn into free space, and find a different gate. Count controlled trips for 45 seconds, rest, then try to improve your own score.

Make it easier

Use wider gates and allow a stop before turning.

Add a challenge

Call a color so players must look up and choose a matching gate.

What to watch for

Players race with the ball too far ahead. Ask them to reach the next gate with the ball still within one step.

Take it into a game

Finish with a short small-sided game and look for the same dribbling decision without the activity’s extra conditions. Ask a player to describe one moment when it helped. Keep the next round simple if the skill disappears under pressure.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Look for space. Keep the ball within reach.

Practical suggestions to adapt to your players. This resource has not received independent coach or referee review. How our content is prepared.

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