Summer Speed Work for 4A S Players: The 'Piggyback' Drill
Iowa City West Trojans' S players, take note: this summer, focus on developing your speed and agility with the 'Piggyback' drill. This drill targets your acceleration and deceleration, essential for making plays on the edge. Set up a 10-yard course with cones or markers. Have your S player start in a 3-point stance, then explosively drive forward 5 yards. As they reach the 5-yard mark, have them quickly change direction and 'piggyback' a small resistance band or a teammate's leg, simulating a defender. Immediately accelerate back to the starting point. Perform 3 sets of 10 reps, resting 30 seconds between sets. Coaching cues include: 'Drive your feet,' 'Change direction quickly,' and 'Accelerate out of the turn.' This drill translates to game performance by improving your S player's ability to quickly close gaps and make tackles in space.