Game version
Tunnel pass: pass the ball through the tunnel to the grown-up, who passes it back. Make the tunnel a little smaller each time.
Pass Through the Tunnel
Two cones make a tunnel. The child passes the ball through it to the grown-up with the inside of the foot: the first passing game.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth soccer coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Put 2 cones or shoes a big step apart: that is the tunnel.
- Ages
- 4 to 6
- Time
- 3 min
- Players
- Just you
- Space
- Yard or field
- Bring
- Size 3 soccer ball, 2 cones or shoes
- Level · skill
- Beginner · Passing & Receiving
The steps
How it works
- Put 2 cones or shoes a big step apart: that is the tunnel.
- Stand on one side; your child stands 3 big steps away on the other side.
- They pass the ball through the tunnel to you with the inside of the foot.
- Pass it back. Make the tunnel a little smaller when it gets easy.
Coaching point
Praise the try: “Through the tunnel! Nice side-of-the-foot pass.”
Safety: Play on grass or a soft, flat, clear space with nothing to trip on. Stop for a drink and a rest whenever they want one.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Story
The tunnel is a train tunnel, and your ball is the train.
Practice makes progress
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