Heads-up Follow the leader is an excellent dribbling drill to help build player confidence when dribbling. Many young players are so afraid of losing the ball that they don't ever pick their head up to see the field. This exercise demands close dribbling and picking the head up to be successful. It can be used as a building activity for a dribbling themed practice or as a warm-up

• Number of Players: All
• Equipment: 1 ball/player; open space to accomodate entire team
• Time: 5-10 minutes

• Each Player Should have a ball at feet
• Need a larger open area; no boundaries necessary
• End the activity when player enthusiasm wanes, keep activity fresh by introducing modifications

• Players are told to spread out with a ball
• Coach at front of group who will move backwards, forwards, left and right
• Players must quickly change their direction to mimic coach
• Only way to mirror the coach is to pick up head and "see the game"
• Assistants can encourage players to pickup heads and keep ball close

• Players may only use "weak" foot
• Players can only use certain parts of the foot: inside, outside, sole, top
• Coach increases frequency and speed of changes in front of group