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Turning a Defender Drill

Field size: 30 yards by 30 yards

Number of players: full team with three players working in a group

Age range: 10-12

Description: Player with his or her back to the defender receives the ball and tries to turn and beat the defender. One player serves the ball in while two players work as defender and attacker. Server makes crisp pass into the offensive player’s feet as he or she checks back to the ball.

Work on turning and beating a defender who is closely marking you. Defender can try win the ball after the attacker touches the ball. Attacker has to use his or her body to push away from the defender and shield the ball once they receive it.

Practice a shoulder dip, feint to one side, flicking the ball around defender, letting the ball run through their legs, turning with the soles of the feet, or checking back already half turned and using the outside of your foot.

The key in this drill is to drag the defender away from where you want the ball. Then, break towards the ball at speed and lose the defender. This will give the attacking player time to turn.

Equipment needed: Cones and practice vests.