Looking for U8 football drills? Every drill below is built for ages 5–8, covering first-touch, first-season fundamentals for the youngest players on the roster. Keep instructions short, demonstrate everything, and expect to repeat the setup a few times — that's normal at this age, not a sign the drill is wrong for the group.
This circuit builds quick, high-knee footwork and body control that transfers to nearly every position on the field, from offensive line pass sets to…
The five points of contact for carrying a football — fingers, palm, forearm, bicep, ribs — taught early and simply, before speed or contact are ever…
A simple weaving course that builds change-of-direction comfort and body control for players who are still learning how their feet and hips work…
Forming a proper "window" with the hands and tracking the ball into the body builds catching confidence before speed or contested catches…
A good stance is the foundation for every position on the field — this drill teaches the basic three-point stance and the explosive first step out of…
Mirror Drill sharpens lateral quickness and balance for defensive backs and linemen alike by having one player react to another's movement in…
A safe, no-contact introduction to the idea of "tackling" — defenders touch the ball carrier with two hands instead of tackling, building…
For flag football players, a clean flag pull is the equivalent of a tackle — this drill teaches the correct angle and hand technique instead of a…
Ready to build a full practice? See ready-made Football practice plans for this age group, with timing worked out for you.
See Football practice plansThe drills on this page are selected specifically for ages 5–8 football players, covering first-touch, first-season fundamentals for the youngest players on the roster. Each one lists the age range, group size, and equipment needed so you can drop it straight into a practice plan.
Most U8 practices run 45–60 minutes total, with individual drills kept to 5–8 minutes to match shorter attention spans.