Running

Space a set of rolled towels out (use towels to prevent tripping,etc) 10-15 yds. Adjust distance between based on size of your son. This will work straight ahead and emphasize stride length..just make sure he doesn't over-stride. However, do drills that relate to the game...lateral runs, change of direction, etc. My greatest concern of kids playing youth football is the coaching...make sure he is on a team in which the coaches take time to learn proper techniques...so many times you get part-time guys who just go out and "coach" how they think it should be done....not a rip on them...just a realization of the fact that the guys who coach youth league are not full-time coaches and can't typically devote the time necessary to become an expert in the field, particularly in the crucial area of fundamentals. I remember listening to Bill Walsh at a clinic...he suggested that, unless you are 100% confident that your son's coach knows what he is doing, don't let your kids play youth league...be very careful. I have taken that advice and haven't signed my 9 year old son up yet...in spite of his constant "whining" to do so! As a high school football coach, I take my own son out and teach him how to throw; run; etc. He'll likely get his first taste of the game in junior high....and even then, the coaching can possibly be a bit hairy. Just my opinion.