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1 on 1 Ground Balls

Team Drills
Ground Balls
1 on 1
Battle Drills

A fundamental drill that teaches good ground ball technique and emphasizes individual matchups.

1 on 1 Ground Balls Drill Diagram

Drill Setup

  • Players are split into two lines.
  • The Coach stands in the middle with a supply of balls.
  • This drill can be ran anywhere on the field and in smaller groups if required.

Drill Execution

  1. The Coach rolls or bounces the ball out in front of the Players, the ball can be thrown short (5-10 yards) or long (10+ yards) to emphasize speed or physicality in the drill.
  2. Once the ball comes to a rest or is far enough away from the players, the Coach will blow the whistle to start the drill. The first player from each line sprints towards the ball.
  3. Players compete for the ground ball.
  4. The Player who gains possession of the ball rolls out to open space to make an outlet pass back to the Coach. The Player who lost the ground ball will try to disrupt.

Coaching Points

  • Fundamentals: Ground ball technique is vital for this drill. Emphasize getting low, using the body to shield the opponent, and scooping through the ball.
  • Competetiveness: Encourage Players to battle hard for the loose ball and not give up early.
  • Getting Hands Free: Once possession is gained, Players must focus on getting into space to make a clean pass back to the Coach.

Variations

  • Altered Start: Have the Players start on their stomachs or with their backs to the open field to add an additional chellenge to this drill.