Dribbling Skills

Dribbling may be defined as a controlled player movement with the ball. Players highly skilled in ball control are most effective when they select to dribble wisely, i.e., they know when to dribble and when to use an alternative game strategy.
 

The purpose of this test is to provide a means of obtaining a baseline measure of fundamental soccer dribbling skills (control, speed, and change of direction). The "NM" shaped test is simple to set up, and is relatively easy for young children to follow. In addition, test practice trials provide a fun and rewarding learning experience.

Test Objective: Propell ball under control from start gate (cones 1 & 2) to finish gate (cones 8 & 9) in as little time as possible.

Dimensions: Start (cones 1 & 2) and finish (cones 8 & 9) gates are 3 feet apart (each). Distance from center of start line to cone 3, and from cone 7 to center of finish line is 7 feet (each). Spread between zig zag cones (3-4, 4-5, 5-6, and 6-7) is 5 feet (each). Distance between cones 2 and 9 is 15 feet. Spread between cones 3 & 5, and Cones 5 & 7 is 9 feet (each). To place cone 4, measure 3 feet to the right of cone 2 (horizontally) and then measure 4 feet streight up (vertically). To place cone 6, measure 3 feet to the left (horizontally) of cone 9 and then measure 4 feet streight up (vertically). Following the above procedure should place cones 3&4, 4&5, 5&6, and 6&7 five feet apart (each) at the proper angles.

Rules: Players may use both feet to dribble and must go around (not over) cone. Every incident of cutting over cone carries a two seconds penalty.