Football Shooting Drill – Volley Shot
Volleys win matches, but only when players are comfortable striking the ball before it hits the ground. This drill turns volley practice into a high-energy competition that also tests keepers and throw-in accuracy.
Setup
- Players: 11+ (two teams of five shooters plus one goalkeeper). Larger squads can duplicate the drill on the opposite half.
- Area: Half pitch with a full-size goal.
- Equipment: Minimum 10 balls, cones marking shooting lanes, and two serving stations (left and right) just outside the box.
Assign one server per flank to deliver throw-in style feeds. Ensure left-footed players are split evenly.
Rules
- Servers alternate sides: left feed → right feed → repeat.
- When the ball comes from the left, the shooter must strike with the right foot; from the right, finish with the left.
- Only volleys or half-volleys count. If the ball touches the ground twice, the rep is void.
- Keepers stay active—do not pause for resets. Servers grab a new ball immediately.
- Run two-round cycles: first round with strong foot, second round with weak foot. After each cycle, swap servers with shooters so everyone practices both roles.
- Award 1 point for every goal, -1 for scuffed shots that miss the target entirely. Track totals per team.
Coaching cues
- Approach at a slight angle so your hips can open toward the far post.
- Lock the ankle, strike through the centre or top half of the ball for dipping volleys.
- Encourage shooters to land on their striking foot to maintain balance.
- Servers should aim chest-high, curling slightly toward the strike foot for a natural swing.
- Goalkeepers work on resetting quickly—no time to complain about traffic in the box.
Variations
- Allow chest control + volley if players are struggling.
- Add mannequin defenders to force curved runs.
- Challenge keepers by reducing their area (e.g., must stay inside a 2 m channel).
Benefits
- Technique: Dozens of reps teach players to judge the drop and contact cleanly.
- Two-footed finishing: The alternating feeds guarantee weak-foot practice.
- Throw-in quality: Servers learn to deliver accurate, looping balls.
- Goalkeeper sharpness: Flurry of shots improves reflexes and recovery footwork.
Record the best volleys and tag @footballtechnik — we might feature your team’s highlight reel.