Find the Pocket
Positioning
Legend
- player
- cones
- movement path
How it works
Move between cones to find a pocket of space, an open area between imaginary defenders.
What you need
- cones
Your focus
Positioning in soccer is about finding and occupying pockets of space between defenders. This drill introduces the concept physically so players feel what it means to be 'in the pocket.'
Set 4 cones in a square, 4 yards apart. Each cone represents a defender.
Player starts outside the square. Parent calls 'pocket' and points to a space between two cones.
Player moves quickly into that pocket and calls 'open'.
Parent calls the next pocket. Player moves again.
Do 15 pocket calls. Score: 1 point for getting to the pocket before parent counts to 3.
Goal
You've nailed it when you find 12 of 15 pockets before the count of 3.
Helpful cues
- Scan before you move, find the space first
- Quick feet to the pocket, not a jog
- Body open to receive, sideways, not facing the passer
Adjust the challenge
Make it easier
Strip it back
Slow down the calls, give the player time to think.
UpLVL it
Add the next challenge
Player must stay in the pocket for 3 seconds while parent tries to mark them.No account needed
Build a practice plan
Add drills, keep the plan in this browser, then share a link with your staff or parents.This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.
This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.After every practice, UpLVL automatically surfaces the drills each player needs to work on most. See it for yourself.