Gates Game
Teams score by dribbling through any of several small cone gates scattered across the field. Encourages scanning and creativity.
Objective
Develop scanning, awareness, and creative dribbling by rewarding players who find and dribble through open gates.
Watch It In Action
Visual Concept
Top-down diagram — Small-Sided Games drill layout
Setup
Mark a 25x35 yard field. Scatter 8–10 cone gates (2 cones, 1 yard apart) randomly across the field. No fixed goals. Teams of 3–5.
How to Run It
Explain scoring
A player scores a point by dribbling through any gate. The ball must pass cleanly between the cones.
Free play
Play a normal game. Players quickly realize they need to scan for open gates.
Defend the gates
Defenders must now cover gates, not just mark players — creates interesting tactical problems.
Two-touch rule
Add a two-touch maximum to speed up decision-making.
Coaching Cues
Scan before you receive — know where the open gates are
Change direction to find a gate — don't just run straight
Defenders: you can't guard every gate, so press the ball
Use your teammates to create space near a gate
Variations
- Color-code gates — each color is worth different points
- One team attacks gates, the other defends them (asymmetric game)
- Limit to one touch inside the gate to score
Gear for This Drill
Everything you need to run Gates 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
- 16–20 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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