Equipment Needed
- One football
- Cones
Mark the gauntlet
A row of cones is all you need to lay out a consistent ball-security gauntlet from rep to rep.
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- Players line up single file, each getting a turn to carry the ball through a short cone lane.
- Coach demonstrates the correct carrying position before the first rep.
Instructions
- Player tucks the ball high and tight, with the point of the ball covered by the fingers and the other end pinned to the ribs.
- Carry the ball through the cone lane at a jog, keeping the same tight tuck the whole way.
- Coach or a teammate gently reaches for the ball (no real contact) to check that it stays secure.
- Switch arms halfway through the lane to practice carrying on both sides.
Coaching Points
- "High and tight" is the cue — repeat it often until it's automatic.
- Both hands should be involved when a defender is near, not just the tucking arm.
- Praise players who keep the ball secure even when they stumble or change direction.
- Keep the pace easy; this is a technique drill, not a race.
Variation
Add a gentle tag element where teammates try to tag (not grab) the ball to test the tuck, or carry through a zigzag path for a coordination challenge.