The square passing warm-up is a great way for players to get prepared as they practice their passing technique.
Set Up
Set up squares with cones. Distances may vary, however, 8-12 yards apart is usually good for this drill. Form even lines at each cone with players facing the line directly across from them. For larger teams it may be beneficial to set up more squares to keep lines shorter. Three or four players in each line is ideal.
How It Works
Players pass and then do dynamic locomotions to a different line. There are many different sequences that can be used for this warm up by having players pass to different lines and perform different locomotions as they move to different lines. Examples of passing and locomotion sequences are shown below.
Coaching Points
Be sure that players use the inside of their feet to trap and pass the soccer balls. For more advanced groups, coaches can have players pass with their weak foot only or put a one touch restriction on the players. Also have players work on communication by calling out teammates names before passing.
Passing Sequences
Forward Pass, Forward Locomotion (Jog, Skip, High Kicks, Inside Touches, High Knees, Butt Kickers)
Forward Pass, Lateral Locomotion (Lateral Shuffle, Sideways Skip, Grapevine, Sideways Jumping Jacks)
Diagonal Pass, Forward Locomotion (Jog, Skip, High Kicks, Inside Touches, High Knees, Butt Kickers)
Diagonal Pass, Lateral Locomotion (Lateral Shuffle, Sideways Skip, Grapevine, Sideways Jumping Jacks)
Similar Drills
If you like the square passing warm-up, check out these similar passing warm-ups: