Soccer for Coaches - Scrimmage Games: Capture the Flag

This has always been one of my most successful scrimmage games, combining all types of soccer skills in a really fun contest.

The size of the play area depends on the age level and number of players (I start with 20 x 30 yards for 5-year old players). At each end, form a circle about 8 feet in diameter with discs, placed just inside the play area. These circles represent the "castles".

Split your team in half, forming two teams, using pinnies to tell them apart. If you want, you can quickly come up with team names by assigning them yourself or using the first one they call out. Each team starts at separate ends by their castle.

Gather all the balls you have (the more the better!), and collect them at midfield just outside one of the sidelines. The balls are the "flags", and the goal of the game is for each team to capture as many flags as possible and return them back to their castle.

The game begins with you or an assistant tossing or kicking a couple balls into the middle of the field. The teams will charge the balls and the game is on! As the teams successfully return the balls to their castle, throw more out. You'll soon have multiple "mini-games" going on at once. Keep it going until you are out of balls. Whichever team "captures the most flags" wins.

A few points:

The balls you have by the sideline may not be captured by the players until you put them in play.
A ball is fair game all the way until it is safely secured inside a castle. This adds to the challenge as players must control the ball and stop it inside their circle. Players should be encouraged to steal from the opponent any balls that are not yet secured in a castle.
Balls inside a castle are safe and may not be stolen.
Mix up the way you put the balls in play. Throw some high ones out for your more advanced players, and roll some gently towards your more novice ones. Try to keep everyone involved!