Magical spiders - practice

WHY USE IT

This game has a Harry Potter theme and develops the ABCs (agility, balance, coordination and speed) as well as spatial awareness. It is fun, fast and very loud!

Set-up

Set up an area relative to the age, ability and size of the group. Players can be in one big group or split into smaller groups, depending on your preference and the ages and abilities of players.

Cones are used to create a “spider web” in the middle of the area, with a safe zone at each end.

HOW TO DO IT

Each player aims to cross the web back and forth without getting captured by a “magical spider”, who aim to kick the players’ balls away to eliminate them from the game.

If the coach casts the spell “Arani Exumai”, the spiders are permitted to leave their web for a short time to capture as many players as possible. If captured in this instance, a player becomes a spider!

Coaches can call out dribbling techniques to change the dynamics of the game, such as drag backs only, fast dribble, left feet only.

ADAPTATIONS

If the spiders are finding it difficult to catch players, they can tag them rather than kick their football out. Make it harder by putting players in pairs, passing the ball to one another. Make it easier by creating a much larger web for players to cross.

COACHING POINTS

Encourage players to dribble and run with the ball with their heads up, allowing them to spot space, the spiders and other players. 

Get them to use their pace if they see space, so they are running faster, taking bigger touches. When they are in less space, players should take smaller touches to keep the ball under control.

Encourage players to use both feet where possible, and try moving the ball with different parts of their feet.