Shadow Defending
Shadow Defending is a defending drill for U10-U16 youth soccer players that runs approximately 10 minutes and needs cones, 1 ball per pair.
Setup
Pairs in a 10x10 yd square. Attacker with ball, defender without.
How to run it
Defender mirrors the attacker's movement without tackling for 60 seconds, staying goal-side. Switch.
Coaching points
- Low stance, on the balls of your feet
- Small steps to stay balanced
- Show the attacker sideline
Details
| Category | defending |
|---|---|
| Age range | U10-U16 |
| Time | 10 minutes |
| Space | 10x10 yd |
| Equipment | Cones, 1 ball per pair |
Frequently asked questions
What age is Shadow Defending for?+
Shadow Defending works for U10 through U16.
How long does Shadow Defending take?+
Shadow Defending takes about 10 minutes to run.
What equipment do I need for Shadow Defending?+
Cones, 1 ball per pair
How much space does Shadow Defending need?+
10x10 yd
What are the key coaching points for Shadow Defending?+
Low stance, on the balls of your feet; Small steps to stay balanced; Show the attacker sideline.