⚽ Home Training Ideas: Stay Sharp Between Sessions
Even when players aren’t on the pitch at Church Road, there are plenty of ways they can keep developing their skills at home. The aim isn’t to replace training sessions — it’s to stay active, build confidence, and keep the ball at their feet. These simple, safe exercises can be done in a small space, indoors or outdoors, and are perfect for young players across all age groups.
1. Ball Mastery Drills (5–10 minutes)
Improving confidence with the ball is one of the best things a player can do at home. Short but consistent ball-contact drills make a huge difference.
Try these:
Toe Taps – quick touches on top of the ball using alternate feet.
Inside Touches – roll the ball between the insides of both feet.
Foundations – light “tick-tock” touches to keep the ball moving.
Drag Backs – pull the ball back with the sole and move into space.
Coaching tip: Focus on control over speed. Smooth, clean touches build technique.
2. Dribbling & Turning in Tight Spaces
Perfect for players who want to become better dribblers in matches.
Simple ideas:
Set up two cones (or household items like water bottles).
Practise figure-eight dribbling to improve ball control and body movement.
Add turns such as Cruyff turns, drag turns, inside/outside cuts.
Progression: Time yourself over 20 seconds and try to improve each week.
3. Agility & Coordination (No Ball Needed)
Quick feet and balance help every position, from defenders to strikers.
Try:
Fast feet on the spot (20 seconds).
Side steps between two markers.
Jump, turn & sprint (small, controlled movements).
Balance challenge: Stand on one leg while passing a ball around your waist.
Why it helps: Agility improves reaction speed, movement off the ball, and spatial awareness.
4. Wall Passing (If Safe & Allowed)
A classic drill that improves passing technique and first touch.
Ideas:
Use the inside of the foot for consistent passes.
Practise receiving with the opposite foot each time.
Pass at different speeds to challenge control.
Note: Make sure the wall used is appropriate and won’t disturb neighbours.
5. The Weekly Challenge
To keep things fun, players can try a weekly challenge:
100 Touches Challenge: See how quickly you can reach 100 clean ball touches.
1-Minute Dribbling Challenge: Count how many clean touches you get.
Skill of the Week: Pick a turn or move and practise until it feels natural.
Coaches love to see players showing new skills they’ve worked on at home!
6. Staying Motivated
Home training doesn’t need to be long or serious. In fact, 10–15 minutes a few times per week can make a noticeable difference.
Encourage players to:
keep sessions short and enjoyable
set tiny goals (“I’ll do 3 minutes of ball mastery today”)
mix football practice with general activity: skipping, jogging, playing outside
remember that creativity and enjoyment come first
Final Message
At AFC Whyteleafe Youth, we want young players to enjoy football both on and off the pitch. These at-home drills support confidence, creativity, and growth — helping every player return to training sharper, stronger, and ready to learn.