Game version
Shadow-form game: practice the stance and footwork on a partner’s walking line with no contact at all. Swap, and share one thing you liked.
Shadow Tackle Shape
Practice the tackle shape in the air: step, sink the hips, shoot the arms up and through.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Start in a breakdown.
Core: Jogs. Beat your own run of balanced stances.
- Ages
- 14 and up
- Time
- 6 min
- Players
- Just you
- Space
- Yard or field
- Bring
- Nothing to bring
- Level · skill
- Beginner · Safe Tackling
The steps
How it works
- Start in a breakdown.
- Step forward with one foot as you sink your hips.
- Swing both arms up and through like you are hugging a big tree trunk.
- Do 10 each side, slowly, then faster.
Coaching point
Hips sink, arms rip up.
Safety: No contact in this drill; any contact work is only with a coach. Head up and to the side, eyes on the target. Never lead with your head.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a level: Less (partner walks), Core (jogs), More (changes direction). Beat your own run of balanced stances.
Story
You are a shadow that stays right in front of its owner.
My best
Beat your own count
Beat your own run of balanced stances. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
Print it now, or save it free
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