Set up
- Set out a pitch of about 30 by 20 with a goal at each end and a line of central cones.
- Two teams on opposite sides, a ball each.
Balls, bibs, cones and nets. A pitch about 30 by 20 with central cones.
How to play
- On the call, the first player from one team dribbles toward the net and shoots.
- As soon as they shoot, the first player from the other team starts to dribble toward their net to shoot. The first player must run around the central cones to try to stop them.
- The sequence continues.
Keeping everyone moving
Keep groups to 3 a side and run two pitches so nobody waits long. No score between the teams. Each child counts their own goals and recoveries.
Make it easier
Make it harder
- Change the direction of movement.
- Remove or reduce the central cones to speed up or slow down the recovery run.
- Add or remove a goalkeeper.
- Add targets in the net.
Three things to say
- Running with the ball into space.
- Shooting technique: laces, inside of the foot, placement.
- Decision making.
Colts habit
Work hard: the recovery run is the point.
Both feet
Shoot with the practice foot every other go.
Heads up
Look up as you come round the cones.
The Colts change: Keep groups to 3 a side and run two pitches so nobody waits long. No score between the teams. Each child counts their own goals and recoveries.
Safety: If a keeper is used, follow the academy keeper safety rules for the age group.
Keeping score: Each child keeps their own count and tries to beat it next time. Nothing is compared between children.