End Zone Game
No goals — teams score by dribbling the ball into the opponent's end zone. Encourages dribbling and forward runs.
Objective
Encourage forward dribbling and attacking runs by rewarding players who carry the ball into the end zone.
Watch It In Action
Visual Concept
Top-down diagram — Small-Sided Games drill layout
Setup
Mark a 25x35 yard field. Instead of goals, mark a 5-yard end zone at each end with cones. Teams of 3–5 players.
How to Run It
Explain scoring
A player scores by dribbling the ball into the opponent's end zone and stopping it under control.
Free play
Play a normal game. Encourage players to take players on and drive forward.
Add a passing rule
To score, the ball must be passed at least once before entering the end zone.
Celebrate the dribble
Pause and praise any player who beats a defender 1v1 — reinforce the behavior you want.
Coaching Cues
Look for space to run into — don't just pass sideways
If you have space ahead of you, go! Don't wait for a pass
Defenders: stay between the attacker and your end zone
Support your teammate — give them an option if they're under pressure
Variations
- Add a rule that only weak-foot touches count in the end zone
- Require a 1-2 combination before scoring
- Allow the goalkeeper to throw the ball out to restart quickly
Gear for This Drill
Everything you need to run End Zone Game — shop on Amazon with one click.
Classic tall cones for slalom drills, grids, and field marking.
Standard for U9–U12. Great for skill development and drill work.
Lightweight mesh bibs in multiple colors. Fits U6–U14.
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Browse all gearEquipment Needed
- 8–10 cones
- 1–2 balls
- Bibs
Shop This Drill
Classic tall cones for slalom drills, grids, and field marking.
View on AmazonStandard for U9–U12. Great for skill development and drill work.
View on AmazonLightweight mesh bibs in multiple colors. Fits U6–U14.
View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Tags
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