Age Group: Suitable for Young Children
Practice Area: 3-4 meters
Ball Size: 3 or 4
Objective:
The Tap-Tap-Outside drill combines toe taps with an outside cut, enhancing agility, coordination, and ball control. This drill encourages players to develop quick footwork and the ability to change direction effectively.
Instructions:
- Setup: Mark a 3-4 meter area for the drill.
- Starting Position: Stand with the ball at your feet.
- Execution: Start with a right foot toe tap on the ball, followed by a left foot toe tap. Immediately after the second tap with the left foot, use the same foot (left foot) to perform an outside cut, moving the ball to the left.
- Sequence: Once the ball is on the left side, perform a left foot toe tap, then a right foot toe tap, and follow it with an outside cut using the right foot. This creates a continuous sequence: tap with one foot, tap with the other, and then an outside cut with the same foot.
- Rhythm and Control: Focus on maintaining a fluid rhythm throughout the drill. The toe taps should be light and controlled, and the outside cuts should be sharp and precise.
Repetitions and Sets:
Perform 25 repetitions of the tap-tap-outside sequence. Complete 5 sets with brief rests between each set.
Equipment Needed:
- A soccer ball (size 3 or 4).
- A flat, open space suitable for the drill.
Safety Tips:
- Ensure the practice area is free of hazards.
- Encourage wearing sports shoes for proper grip and safety.
Progress Tracking:
Parents can observe the smoothness of the transitions between the toe taps and the outside cuts. The player’s ability to control the ball and maintain a rhythmic flow should improve with practice.
Challenge:
As the player gets better at the drill, encourage them to increase the speed of the toe taps and outside cuts while maintaining control and precision.
Fun Tip:
Turn the drill into a game by counting how many successful sequences the child can complete in a minute, challenging them to beat their own record.