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Defending & Winning the BallDecision MakingBall Control Under PressureFoundationalIntermediateU9-U10Focused Drill

The Closing Control: Fast, Slow, Side, Low

5-10 minutes Partner, Group 4 cones, 1 ball
Coach Carter
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Coach Carter

A short spoken walk-through of this drill.

Goal
The defender must prevent the attacker from reaching the opposite end line by forcing them out of bounds or winning the ball on a heavy touch.
Setup
Create a 10x15 yard channel with cones. Defender starts on one end line, attacker on the opposite.
Drill Instructions
1. The defender passes the ball across the channel to the attacker. 2. As the ball travels, the defender sprints to close the space. 3. As they get close, the defender slows down, adopts a low side-on stance, and directs the attacker toward a sideline. 4. Use 'jabbing' feet rather than 'stabbing' for the ball.
Coach Tip
Remember: Fast, Slow, Side, Low. Sprint to close gap, slow down as you approach, stand side-on, and keep your knees bent.
Avoid
Stepping in with both feet flat or lunging (stabbing) when the attacker has full control.
Court diagram coming soon
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