Skill Building Practice Games
Suggested Games:
Why use games instead of drills?
The skill building games are meant to make sure the kids enjoy practice, but there are many benefits to using game based
drills. The players will not only have more fun but they will play at higher intensity and at game pace. The games should
allow them to have fun and appreciate the sport while learning and practicing the skills they need to master their sport.

Practice Game Guidelines:
  • Have every player touching the ball as much as possible.
  • Use games that keep all kids playing until the end.  Don't have the weak players get knocked out and watch the
    stronger players get more touches.
  • Avoid rewarding "winners" and punishing "losers" (push ups, laps, etc).
  • The games must replicate true game skills to be effective.
  • Shorten or ideally eliminate lines.
  • Keep it simple. The games should be easy to explain and to set up.
  • Don't have too many different games. Find a few games that the kids love and just expand the game as they need
    more challenges.

Let them play without worrying about proper execution of the skill.  After a couple of times through the game ask them what
they need to do well to win the game.  When you hear answers like "dribble in control" or "make good passes" you can then
make suggestions for how to achieve that.  With a little creativity you can probably turn many of the drills you are currently
using into games.  Have fun.  If you have a game to share, please send it to us to add to the site.  
"Without fun, kids get
bored.  Without
success, they give up
quickly."

Its Just a Game!
Darrell Burnett, Ph.D.
... let's not forget that.