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Attack to Defend Transition Runs

Practice the switch from attack to defense: shoot, then run back goal-side fast.

By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026

Set up

Dribble and shoot at a cone goal.

Core: 10. Aim for a smooth start, not a faster time.

Ages
14 and up
Time
15 min
Players
You and a partner
Space
Yard or field
Bring
Stick, ball, cones, partner
Level · skill
Advanced · Speed & Fitness

The steps

How it works

  1. Dribble and shoot at a cone goal.
  2. As your partner calls, turn and run back to a cone behind the ball.
  3. Walk back to the start.
  4. Do 8 reps with full rest between.

Coaching point

Lose it, get back.

Safety: Warm up first on flat, dry ground. Stop if a muscle feels tight.

Make it fun

Play it, don't drill it

Game version

Cone-call game: a partner calls a cone and you move to it with a smooth start. Swap callers and rest fully.

Challenge

Pick a distance: Less (5 yards), Core (10), More (15). Aim for a smooth start, not a faster time.

Story

You are a deer bounding across the meadow.

My best

Beat your own count

Aim for a smooth start, not a faster time. Only your own number counts: today against last time.

Practice makes progress

Print it now, or save it free

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