⚽ Warm-Up
Traffic Lights
U7s respond to story-based, gamified instruction far better than technical cues.
Traffic Lights — full pitch view
The one cue that matters
Quality touches even in the warm-up
◆Why this drill works
U7s respond to story-based, gamified instruction far better than technical cues. 'Cushion the ball' means little; 'red light, freeze!' is instantly understood. Traffic Lights uses three colours to map directly onto three dribbling skills: GREEN (move freely with the ball), AMBER (slow control, sole-of-foot), RED (freeze, ball stops dead). Coach calls colours in random order; players respond. The result: technique work disguised as a game. Kids ask to play it again.
▦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
- Mark out a 14×14 yard square (smaller for fewer players, larger for more). Every player has their own size 3 ball. Players inside the square.
- Explain the three colours: GREEN = move with the ball at jogging pace, anywhere in the square. AMBER = slow down, sole-of-foot rolls (foot on top of ball, gentle push). RED = freeze, foot on the ball, completely still.
- Start with GREEN. Players dribble. Coach calls colour changes every 5-10 seconds: 'Amber!' 'Green!' 'Red!' 'Green!' Random pattern, varied timing.
- After 4 minutes, add a 4th colour: BLUE = change direction sharply. Useful for U8+ groups.
- After 6 minutes, add a 5th colour: PURPLE = swap balls with a friend. Adds a social, fun element.
- Final 2 minutes: 'Players' choice' — let kids call colours. They love being in charge. The coaching content stays the same; the engagement multiplies.
✦Coaching points
Praise when you see
- Quality touches even in the warm-up
- Active, engaged movement — not going through the motions
Correct when you see
- Static stretching cold — keep the movement dynamic
- Standing in queues — keep everyone active
- Treating the warm-up casually — quality starts here
★Kit for this drill — top picks compared
| Pick | Product | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top pick | Marker Cones (50-pack) | Set up any warm-up grid. | Check price → |
| Value | Training Bibs (10-pack) | Team activation games. | Check price → |
| Upgrade | Agility Ladder | Dynamic movement prep. | Check price → |
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?Frequently asked questions
What age group is Traffic Lights suitable for?
This warm-up suits youth and can be scaled in intensity to match the group.
How many players do I need for Traffic Lights?
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 Traffic Lights 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.