Game version
Field follow-the-leader: one person leads a movement and the group copies. Swap the leader each time.
Small-Sided Game Intervals
Short four-a-side games on a small field: lots of touches and game fitness, with rest between.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
A coach sets up a small field with cone goals.
Core: As written. Aim for smooth form and compare only with your own last time.
- Ages
- 14 and up
- Time
- 20 min
- Space
- Yard or field
- Bring
- Sticks, ball, cones, small goals, teammates, mouthguard, shin guards
- Level · skill
- Advanced · Speed & Fitness
The steps
How it works
- A coach sets up a small field with cone goals.
- Play 3 minutes, rest 2 minutes.
- Ball stays on the ground; sticks below the shoulder.
- Play 4 games.
Coaching point
Work hard, then rest.
Safety: Live tackling only with a coach watching. Mouthguard and shin guards on, ball on the ground, stick below the shoulder. Wear protective eyewear (ASTM F2713) where your league requires it.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a level: Less (slower or smaller), Core (as written), More (one extra twist). Aim for smooth form and compare only with your own last time.
Story
You are a scout exploring the field before the game.
My best
Beat your own count
Aim for smooth form and compare only with your own last time. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
Print it now, or save it free
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