⚽ Shooting
Volleys and Half-Volleys
The volley and half-volley are finishing techniques that separate technically complete players from good ones.
Volleys and Half-Volleys — full pitch view
The one cue that matters
Quick release before the defender or keeper sets
◆Why this drill works
The volley and half-volley are finishing techniques that separate technically complete players from good ones. Most grassroots players over 13 can finish from a ground pass but struggle with any ball above knee height. This drill builds both techniques through progressive service: controlled first,
▦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
- Server stands 6 yards from shooter. Serves underarm to knee height. Shooter volleys. First 5 reps: dominant foot, knee height only.
- Progress to thigh height. Striker still volleys — contact through bottom half of ball.
- Half-volley: server drops ball from waist height. Shooter contacts ball at exact bounce point.
- From crosses: wide player delivers low cross from 15 yards. Striker volleys or half-volleys at first touch.
- Final: rapid fire from server — mix of heights. Striker identifies volley vs half-volley vs control-and-shoot in real time.
✓Equipment checklist
- Balls8
- Cones8
✦Coaching points
Praise when you see
- Quick release before the defender or keeper sets
- Body over the ball to keep the shot down
Correct when you see
- Always going for power — placement beats power near goal
- Taking an extra touch when the shot was on — be decisive
- Standing and watching instead of following in for the rebound
★Kit for this drill — top picks compared
| Pick | Product | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top pick | Mitre Impel Footballs (6-pack) | Match-weight balls that hold shape all season. | Check price → |
| Value | Disc Marker Cones (50-pack) | Mark zones and targets in seconds. | Check price → |
| Upgrade | Pop-Up Training Goals (pair) | Realistic target practice anywhere. | Check price → |
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?Frequently asked questions
What age group is Volleys and Half-Volleys suitable for?
This drill suits U14–U15. Younger players can use a bigger target or closer range; older players should add a defender and a goalkeeper to increase the pressure.
How many players do I need for Volleys and Half-Volleys?
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 Volleys and Half-Volleys take?
Allow around 3 minutes to set up and 17 minutes to run it — about 20 minutes in total. It fits well as the technical or main block of a session, leaving time for a warm-up and a game.