27 Soccer Passing Drills Every Coach Needs in Their Toolkit

5. Formation Passing Patterns

How the Drill Works:

Players set up in their game formation and pass the ball amongst themselves. Players look for certain combinations and movements specific to their game play.

Purpose:

Develop players position specific passing patterns and movements off the ball. Players learn to adjust their angles based on their teammate’s decisions.

Diagram:

Setup:

• • Full-size field is preferred. Activity can be completed using a half a field as well.
  • Position the players in their game positions. Decide which formation the team will play.
  • Give the players one ball.
  • Decide on the patterns and movements the players should look for.
  • Play three, four-minute rounds at game pace. Add more rounds and time as needed. Rotate players, formations, and patterns between rounds.

Instructions:

1. Players pass the ball while moving in their formation.
2. Players should constantly move off of each other to create layers and options for the player on the ball.
3. The team should try and move the ball as quickly as possible from side-to-side and front- to-back.
4. Keep the players on a three-touch limit.
5. Look for quick, short combinations mixed with long, releasing passes. Up-back-throughs. Give-and-go’s.
6. Play three, four-minute rounds at game speed. Push the players to increase the tempo and the pass of the ball as needed. Add more rounds if required. Rotate players, formations, and specific patterns between rounds.

Variations:

Touch-limit – Depending on the skill level, give the players a one, two, or three-touch limit.

Two teams – If a full field is available, place another team on the opposite side of the field and have them perform the same activity. This will make both teams move and play through each other.

Two soccer balls – Add a second soccer ball to help players increase their vision and awareness. Only add a second soccer ball if vision and awareness is the focus.

Coaching Points:

• • Challenge the players to move the ball as quickly as possible! Passes should be on the floor and zipped into their teammates’ feet.
  • Teach the players to have an idea where they are passing the ball before they receive it. This is important to increase the ball movement.
  • Remind the players to talk! Players should be communicating with each other and demanding the ball.
  • Look to bring out game specific patterns that the team should work on in preparation for the coming opponent. Great activity to walk-through game plans.