FOOTBALL SPEED Coach Ed Dear Coach Ed, My son is 9 years old and wants to play running back on his school football team. The trouble? He's a big kid (not fat, just big for his age) and not exceptionally quick. I'm looking for some exercises and drills that I can do with him in the off-season to increase both his endurance and his speed. Any input would be much appreciated. Thanks! Best, Jerome Ruwe, Ohio Dear Jerome, This speed question is one I am asked frequently by soccer and football players and coaches. To improve quickness, try this drill. Start off running in place easy for 10 seconds, then run in place with a high leg lift, adding in arm movement for 5 seconds, then running double time for 5 seconds. Now go back to the easy running in place for 10 seconds. Rest for about 15 seconds and start all over again. Repeat 5 to 10 times 3 days a week. The drill will help not only with speed but will improve his overall athletic conditioning. For endurance specifically, an easy run of one mile 3 times a week will work wonders. Good luck, Coach Ed Ed Poirier, "Coach Ed", recently was invited by the United States Olympic committee to attend a workshop and training seminar at the Olympic training center in California.