Set up
- Mark a grid of about 20 by 30 with a goal at each end and an end cone for each team.
- Two teams in the wide areas. Each player has a number.
Balls, bibs, cones and nets. Grid about 20 by 30. Two teams in the wide areas, two keepers.
How to play
- When their number is called, players sprint around their end cone and into the centre of the pitch.
- The coach serves a ball and the players play 1v1 trying to score.
- Call numbers quickly so the waiting time is short.
Keeping everyone moving
Run two grids and give waiting players a ball each for toe taps, so nobody stands still. Keeper turns follow the academy rotation rule.
Make it easier
Make it harder
- Call more than one number to create a 2v2 or 3v3.
- Vary starting positions: sitting, lying down.
- Add a time limit.
Three things to say
- Listen and react.
- First touch and 1v1 attacking: speed, change of direction, feints.
- 1v1 defending: body shape, closing down.
Colts habit
Be brave: attack first.
Both feet
Finish with the practice foot for a bonus.
Heads up
Find the ball as you round the cone.
The Colts change: Run two grids and give waiting players a ball each for toe taps, so nobody stands still. Keeper turns follow the academy rotation rule.
A young leader can run this one, with an adult coach beside them.
Safety: Academy keeper safety rules apply.
Keeping score: Each child keeps their own count and tries to beat it next time. Nothing is compared between children.