DrillsPedia

Pass Race Relay Gates

A passing game where kids score by passing through gates, collecting the ball calmly, and resetting before the next attempt.

How to set it up
CONTROL THE NEXT ACTION

A simple setup view for this drill.

Setup

Make two passing gates a few metres apart. Players take turns passing through a gate, jogging to collect the ball, and resetting behind the start marker before the next pass.

Steps

  1. Place two gates at different angles from the starting marker.
  2. The first player passes through either gate.
  3. Jog to collect the ball and bring it back under control.
  4. Score one point for a pass through the gate and one point for a calm reset.
  5. Switch the target gate after each successful pass.

Coaching points

  • Accuracy beats rushing.
  • Pass through the middle of the gate.
  • Reset the feet before the next pass.
  • Let the game reward calm choices, not just speed.

Common mistakes

  • Turning the relay into full-speed kicking.
  • Making the gates too narrow.
  • Letting players shoot instead of pass.
  • Ignoring the reset after collecting the ball.

Make it easier

Use one wide gate and let the player stop the ball before each pass.

Make it harder

Add a moving target, a weaker-foot round, or a rule that the player must look up before passing.

How to know it is working

The player can pass through a gate, collect the ball safely, and reset without losing the shape of the pass.

Safety

Keep the running lane clear and use flat markers so players do not trip while collecting the ball.

Next practice

Pick one short session. Stop while the child still wants another turn.