Ball Hold-Off
Strength & Power
Legend
- player
- ball
- movement path
How it works
Use body strength to shield the ball from a partner trying to poke it away.
What you need
- soccer ball
Your focus
Physical shielding is the earliest application of strength in soccer. Teaching young players to use their body between the ball and opponent , legally and effectively , develops the functional soccer strength that protects possession in every game.
Pairs face each other. Ball between them.
Player A places the ball at their feet and uses their body (shoulder, hip) to shield it.
Player B (gently) tries to poke the ball away.
Player A must keep the ball for 10 seconds.
Switch roles after each 10-second attempt.
5 rounds each; increase the physical effort of the challenger gradually.
Goal
You've got it when you keep your body between your partner and the ball for the full 10 seconds, they can push, but they can't get around you.
Helpful cues
- Body between ball and opponent, like a wall
- Bend your knees and lower your center of gravity
- Keep arms out (legal) for balance, no pushing
Adjust the challenge
Make it easier
Strip it back
Challenger stands 1 yard away, no physical contact, just presence.
UpLVL it
Add the next challenge
Shield while dribbling sideways, movement plus strength.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.