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JOIN NOWWhat drills should I use for my team tryouts?
What are some great drills to use during tryouts with 30 or more players for a JV high school team? I have two weeks to evaluate and choose my team. Thanks!
Michael C.Coach, United States of America
ANSWERS
Dylan MooreCoach, England
play a game only. This will give you a better indication who is stronger in a game scenario
Ian MarshCoach, England
I would recommend a combination of basic skill drills (pass and follow) to give all players ample time to touch the ball and show their basic skills, followed by a match as Dylan suggests.
What would also be helpful would be to have two smaller games going on at the same time so players have a chance to shine (7v7 and 8v8) - this would mean you would need an assistant coach to watch one game while you watch the other.
Ian MarshCoach, England
Example group passing drill (see below). You can reverse the direction with a whistle to keep players on their toes.
The key thing to remember is players will be nervous, so try to look for players with good fundamentals (touch, passing accuracy, speed) - but also look out for match awareness. Some players might have excellent skills but no game awareness.
Good luck with the trials - let us know how you get on!
Simple pass and follow
DESCRIPTION
Set out grids about 5 by 5m. Player by each cone with 2 players starting on the first cone (could be more depending on numbers). Player with the ball starts by passing the ball to the player on the next cone. (anti clock-wise to start with) with their right foot and controlling the ball with their left foot. after the ball has gone round 2 times switch by passing the ball round clock wise ( with left foot only and control with right foot)
Simple pass and follow
DESCRIPTION
Set out grids about 5 by 5m. Player by each cone with 2 players starting on the first cone (could be more depending on numbers). Player with the ball starts by passing the ball to the player on the next cone. (anti clock-wise to start with) with their right foot and controlling the ball with their left foot. after the ball has gone round 2 times switch by passing the ball round clock wise ( with left foot only and control with right foot)
