First touch & receiving
Teach players to gather information and prepare their next action before the ball arrives.
Where to start
The right first touch depends on pressure and space. A touch forward helps when the lane is open; a protected return may be better with an opponent close behind. Pair receiving practice with a scan and a choice so technique stays connected to the game.
8 resources
First touch through an exit gate
First touch through an exit gate: a practical youth soccer activity for 2–10 players, with setup, instructions, easier and harder variations.
Receive across the body
Receive across the body: a practical youth soccer activity for 3 players, with setup, instructions, easier and harder variations.
Check away, then show for the ball
Check away, then show for the ball: a practical youth soccer activity for 2–8 players, with setup, instructions, easier and harder variations.
Receive with a defender on your shoulder
Receive with a defender on your shoulder: a practical youth soccer activity for 3–9 players, with setup, instructions, easier and harder variations.
Half-turn to connect two teammates
Half-turn to connect two teammates: a practical youth soccer activity for 3–6 players, with setup, instructions, easier and harder variations.
U6–U8 practice: take the first touch into space
A 45-minute U6–U8 soccer practice with three activities, timed transitions, a final game, and a clear coaching focus.
U9–U10 practice: take the first touch into space
A 60-minute U9–U10 soccer practice with three activities, timed transitions, a final game, and a clear coaching focus.
U11–U12 practice: take the first touch into space
A 75-minute U11–U12 soccer practice with three activities, timed transitions, a final game, and a clear coaching focus.