tooptimeTIME TO PLAY
Soccer drills

Scan and call before receiving

Use this activity to work on scanning 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 2026-09-21U9–U10 · U11–U12
Suggest an improvement
At a glance
Players3
Starting space10 × 10 yards; one ball
Suggested time6–10 minutes, including short breaks
EquipmentBalls, flat cones, bibs when teams are used

Set it up

A server faces the receiver. A third player behind the receiver holds up one or two fingers.

How to play

The receiver glances behind, calls the number, then receives a ground pass and returns it. Change the number between repetitions and rotate roles.

Make it easier

Show the signal earlier and use a slower pass.

Add a challenge

Put two exit gates behind the receiver and connect the signal to the open gate.

What to watch for

Players turn fully away as the ball arrives. Encourage a quick glance before the pass and attention back to the ball.

Take it into a game

Finish with a short small-sided game and look for the same scanning 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.

BUILT AROUND YOUR TEAM

Give us feedback.

What would make ToopTime more useful? Tell us what worked, what was confusing, or what you wish you could do.

How we use your suggestions