Target Tarp Soccer Shooting

A soccer shooting drill where the goal is covered by a tarp with holes worth different points, and players try to put the ball through the hole that gets called. It builds inside-of-the-foot accuracy and quick decisions.

How to play

1. Tie a tarp to each of the 2 goals with ropes, with 5 holes about 20 inches wide: two at the top (5 points), two low corners (3), and one low center (1). Make 4 groups of 6, two per goal (3 min).
2. Each group forms two lines 20 feet from the tarp: passers and shooters. The passer sends a ground pass to the shooter, who traps it and shoots with the inside of the foot.
3. As they pass, the passer calls a hole: top, corner, or center. A shot through the called hole scores double.
4. After shooting, the shooter retrieves along the side and joins the passing line. The two groups at each goal take turns every 4 min (12 min).
5. Final round (5 min): one-touch shots with no trap, and the group adds up points to beat its earlier score.

Rules

• Shoot only from the cone line and only after the previous shooter has retrieved.
• Nobody stands behind the tarp; always retrieve from the side.
• Strike with the inside of the foot or the laces, never the toe.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student strikes the ball with a hand or a floor hockey stick from a wheelchair at 13 feet.
• Hearing impairment: the passer points to the hole instead of calling it.
• Skill level: students who hit the top holes easily shoot with the other foot.

Learning goals

• Strike the ball with the inside of the foot toward a specific target.
• Make quick decisions based on a changing cue.
• Follow turns and safety rules while shooting.

Equipment for a class of 25

• tarps: 2
• ropes: 8
• soccer goals: 2
• foam soccer balls: 12
• cones: 8

Teacher tip

Use an old tarp or strong fabric and reinforce the hole edges with tape. Watch the plant foot: it belongs beside the ball, pointing at the target.

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