Warm-up: Mastering the switch

WHY USE IT

Starting with a rondo allows players to mentally prepare for the session, ensuring they are committing to all four moments of the game: in-possession, negative transition, out-of-possession and positive transition.

Set-up

Mark out two equal squares, relative to the age, ability and number of players. Divide players into two teams, each starting in separate squares. Place balls at the corners of the two squares, and, ideally, have two coaches to feed balls in to keep the activity fast.

HOW TO play

Each bout lasts between 90 seconds and two minutes. At the start, each team sends two or three defenders into the opponent’s square. 

 

For the first activity, attackers get one point for four successful passes. Defenders get two points for dribbling out of the square, and one point for passing to each other. At the end of the bout, players go back to their team and add up attacking and defending scores.

progressions & ADAPTATIONS

• Add a small box in the middle of each square. Now, attackers can receive and play out of a different side of the central box. for an additional three points. 

   

• If too hard, make the square bigger or reduce number of defenders. Defenders have to hold a bib between them to stay connected. 

   

• If too easy, implement a rule that, after receiving in the middle box, you can’t receive again there straight away. This forces rotation of players.

   

• Place cones on the outside of the larger box. Each time a player receives and passes they must relocate the cone to a different side. This forces repositioning and ’switching’, as you are preventing passes going straight back to the same player.

COACHING POINTS

Attacking

•  Reposition often, focus on open body shape and hips.

•  Scan continuously.

•  Pass to the correct foot: where is the pressure?

•  Receive and play away from pressure (back foot), with limited touches.

 

Defending

•  Pressure together.

 

Reinforce game model – all four moments of the game

•  Counter-press: when you lose the ball, press/repress together to prevent successful transition.