Football is regarded as a game of power and speed, along with a popular notion that the fastest players are also the best and the most agile. But according to a study by the National Strength and Conditioning Association, a player's speed and work in speed training doesn't necessarily translate to agility. By running your youth football players through agility drills, you can provide them a foundation that will translate to more success on the gridiron.
Snake Drill
Line up up eight to 10 cones in a straight line. Line your team up 10 yards from the first cone. On the whistle, each player must weave through the cones as quickly as possible. This drill developsboth balance and the quick changes of direction that are required in football.
Backpedal
A player backpedals as quickly as possible, awaiting orders from his coach. The coach alternately shouts orders, such as turn hips right or left, turn body -- while keeping head swiveled, break inside, break outside or stop and leap. This drill is geared toward defensive backs and other players expected to cover opposing pass catchers, because they require the ability to backpedal quickly and change course with little delay when the ball is thrown.
Box Drill
Set up four different-colored cones in a square formation, with each cone10 yards from the next one. Have your players stand in the center of the square in an athletic position, slightly bent at the waist, head up and weight resting on his toes rather than the balls of his feet. The coach then shouts a specific color, and the player must run to that cone and back to the center. This increases quick-burst ability and change of direction. To add an extra dimension, mix in a "dive" command. This develops the ability to transfer from a side-to-side movement into tackling position.
Uphill Sprints
Send your player running up a slight hill, 15 or so yards long. Stand at the bottom of the hill and as he's reaching the plateau, throw a pass to his left or right, high or low. This drill helps develop the ability to shift direction at top speeds and is an excellent one for a wide receiver because not every pass will be thrown directly at his chest.
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