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Soccer drills

Slalom with a decision

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
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At a glance
Players2–10
Starting spaceFour cones over 10 yards; two exits
Suggested time6–10 minutes, including short breaks
EquipmentBalls, flat cones, bibs when teams are used

Set it up

Make a short slalom with cones about two yards apart. A partner stands beyond two finishing gates.

How to play

Dribble through the cones, glance up, and leave through the gate the partner indicates. Change signals only before the player reaches the last cone.

Make it easier

Remove two slalom cones and signal earlier.

Add a challenge

The partner blocks one gate instead of pointing to the open one.

What to watch for

Players memorize a route without looking. Vary the signal and give enough time for a genuine choice.

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.

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