Paris Ball Mastery

Instructions/Setup:

In this ball mastery drill, players work on their dribbling skills and their ability to execute quick 2-player combinations. The drill emphasizes ball control, speed, and precision in tight spaces, providing an opportunity for players to practice both individual and team-oriented skills.

The drill begins with players dribbling through a set of vertical cones, focusing on maintaining close control while navigating the obstacles. Once at the top of the grid, the player performs a 2-player combination with a teammate, before rotating positions. The player who was at the top of the grid dribbles quickly back down to the starting point (without going through the cones), while the original dribbler takes their position at the top, ready to repeat the process.

Coaching Notes:

• Close Ball Control: Encourage players to keep the ball close to their feet while dribbling through the cones, using small, quick touches to maintain control, especially when working in tight spaces.

• Quick Combinations: Focus on timing and communication during the 2-player combination at the top of the grid. The players should make quick passes, anticipating the movement of their teammate and being prepared for a return pass.

• Movement Off the Ball: Stress the importance of good movement off the ball. The player at the top of the grid should position themselves in an area that allows for a clean combination, while the dribbler should look to create space for the pass.

• Speed and Agility: Players should work on their speed and agility, moving quickly through the cones and executing the combination play at a high tempo. Quick changes of direction are key to the success of this drill.

Progression 1: Increase Speed and Complexity of Combinations:

Incorporate more complex combination plays, such as give-and-go or wall passes, to increase the difficulty and challenge players to make decisions faster.

Focus: This progression develops players’ technical ability and sharpens their decision-making skills in executing more advanced combinations at higher speeds.