⚽ First Touch
Cushion Volley Control
Controlling a bouncing or aerial ball cleanly is a differentiator at U13+.
Cushion Volley Control — full pitch view
The one cue that matters
First touch out of the feet into space, ready for the next action
◆Why this drill works
Controlling a bouncing or aerial ball cleanly is a differentiator at U13+. Players who can cushion-volley — take pace off a moving ball with an instep or inside-foot cushion before it bounces — have significantly more options than those who wait for everything to drop. This drill isolates the cushio
▦The drill in three phases
1Setup
Starting positions — players, zones and equipment in place.
2Action
Movement begins — players run, dribble and create the pattern.
3Finish
The end action — pass, shot or outcome the drill builds toward.
Ball carrierAttackersDefendersPass / dribbleShot
▶How to run it
- Pairs 8 yards apart. Server throws underarm to various heights: shin, hip, chest height.
- Receiver uses inside-foot cushion. Coaching cue: 'Soft ankle, withdraw on contact'.
- Increase serve pace after 10 reps. Receiver cushions at different heights as called.
- Progress: server volleys ball. Increased pace. Receiver must still cushion.
- Final 5 minutes: control and move — cushion-volley, then immediately pass to third player 3 yards either side.
✓Equipment checklist
- Balls6
- Cones12
- Bibs8
✦Coaching points
Praise when you see
- First touch out of the feet into space, ready for the next action
- Scanning before the ball arrives to know where to take it
Correct when you see
- Heavy first touch letting the ball run away
- Taking the touch toward a defender instead of into space
★Kit for this drill — top picks compared
| Pick | Product | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top pick | Training Footballs (6-pack) | Consistent touch reps. | Check price → |
| Value | Rebounder Net | Solo control practice. | Check price → |
| Upgrade | Marker Cones (50-pack) | Mark receiving zones. | Check price → |
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?Frequently asked questions
What age group is Cushion Volley Control suitable for?
This drill suits U13–U14. Younger players can receive from a gentle, rolled pass; older players should receive firmer, more varied service under pressure.
How many players do I need for Cushion Volley Control?
This drill works well with around 12 players. With fewer, reduce the groups or rotate players through; with more, set up multiple stations so everyone stays active rather than queuing.
How long does Cushion Volley Control take?
Allow around 3 minutes to set up and 15 minutes to run it — about 18 minutes in total. It fits well as the technical or main block of a session, leaving time for a warm-up and a game.