tooptimeTIME TO PLAY
Coach essentials

Reduce waiting in soccer drills

Count how many players are actually involved at one time, not how impressive the setup looks.

By ToopTime · Updated 2026-09-21U6–U8 · U9–U10 · U11–U12 · U13+
Suggest an improvement
At a glance
ForVolunteer coaches and team organizers
Use itBefore your next practice or match
ApproachAdapt to your team and league policies

Start here

Replace a single shooting queue with paired targets or two small games. Keep a spare ball nearby so play restarts quickly.

Make it work for your team

If a demonstration needs a turn order, keep the groups small and give waiting players a useful observing question.

A common trap

A line of two may be manageable; a line of ten usually hides a design problem. Adjust the activity rather than asking children to become more patient indefinitely.

Try this example

You have one secured goal. Use it for one small group while another plays a cone-goal game, then rotate.

Before your next session

  • Choose one action from this guide and write it into your plan.
  • Tell your assistant what you are trying so players hear a consistent message.
  • Afterward, note what helped and what needs a different approach.
KEEP IT SIMPLE

Keep the next action clear, achievable, and connected to the players.

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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