Tickling Drills for Better Soccer Skills

If you hear the word tickling and think it’s only for kids, think again. In soccer it’s a light‑touch method that helps players react faster, handle the ball smoother and stay relaxed under pressure. At Giffnock Soccer Centre we use tickling drills in every age group because they’re quick, fun and give real results.

What is Tickling in Soccer?

Tickling isn’t a fancy term – it’s simply a series of short, rapid touches that keep the ball moving at a low intensity. Imagine a player nudging the ball with the inside of the foot, then the outside, then a quick tap with the sole, all within a few seconds. The goal is to keep the ball close while the player’s body stays light on its feet. The drill mimics that “just‑right” feeling when you’re in a tight space and need to shift direction in an instant.

Because the touches are light, players stay relaxed and avoid the tension that often leads to sloppy passes. It also trains the brain to make micro‑decisions – should I use the inside or the outside? Which foot is in a better position? Those tiny choices add up to big improvements during a match.

How to Use Tickling Drills in Your Sessions

Start with a simple cone layout. Set up five cones in a straight line, 2‑metres apart. Have each player stand behind the first cone with a ball. On the coach’s cue, they should tickle the ball from one cone to the next, using a different foot for each touch. Keep the taps light – the ball should never bounce higher than a hand‑height.

After a few rounds, add a partner. One player leads, the other follows just a few steps behind, mirroring the footwork. This adds a bit of pressure and teaches players to maintain control while someone else is watching.

For a game‑like feel, turn the drill into a “tickle‑tag.” One player is “it” and tries to steal the ball using only light touches. The rest must keep the ball moving with their tickles. The fast pace forces quick thinking and improves defensive awareness.

Remember to keep feedback simple. Say things like, “Nice low touch,” or “Great switch to the outside foot.” Positive reinforcement keeps the mood upbeat and encourages players to experiment.

Integrating tickling drills doesn’t require a lot of time – a 10‑minute warm‑up is enough. You’ll notice players staying calmer during scrimmages, making cleaner passes and reacting quicker when the ball lands in a tight spot.

Give it a try at your next training session. Bring a ball, set up a few cones, and let the light touches do the heavy lifting. Your feet will thank you, and your game will feel smoother.