Snake Shuffle Game

This fun warm-up game helps kids develop agility, balance, and side-to-side movement while staying engaged in a playful challenge. By lining up in a “snake” and shuffling to let the ball pass safely through their feet, players learn key tennis footwork skills while also practicing focus and quick reactions.

Setup

• Players lined up in a single-file line facing the coach
• Feet shoulder-width apart
• Coach with a basket of balls

Rules & Objectives

• Players stand in line with feet apart, ready to shuffle
• Coach rolls a ball toward one side of the line
• All players side shuffle together to that side, allowing the ball to pass safely through their feet
• If the ball touches a player’s foot or misses between their feet, that player goes to the end of the line
• Players reset to the middle, and the coach rolls another ball
• Continue until all players have practiced multiple rounds

Repetition

• Play timed rounds (e.g., 2–3 minutes) before rotating the front player
• Increase difficulty by rolling faster balls or changing directions quickly
• Add conditions: players must bend knees or stay in a low athletic stance while shuffling
• For older kids, add a scoring element: each safe pass earns a team point

Coaching Points

• Develops side-to-side shuffle movement essential in tennis
• Builds agility, balance, and coordination
• Trains focus and reaction speed
• Provides a fun, game-like way to teach footwork basics

Drill Tutorial