Set up
- Mark a grid of about 20 by 15 with a goal.
- Two teams at the side, a ball each.
Balls, bibs, cones and nets. Grid about 20 by 15. Two teams.
How to play
- Two players play 1v1. Whoever scores stays on to defend in the next 1v1.
- From then on, each player takes it in turns to attack first and then defend, before returning to their team to rest until they go again.
- If the defender wins the ball they can counter attack.
Keeping everyone moving
Set up several small grids so waves come every few seconds and no one rests for long. No score kept between teams.
Make it easier
Make it harder
- The same game in a 2v1.
- The same game in a 2v2.
- Remove or add a goalkeeper.
- Add a time limit to score.
Three things to say
- First touch, dribbling and 1v1 skills.
- Change of direction and speed, running with the ball.
- Defending: body shape, close down, slow down.
Colts habit
Work hard: attack, then defend straight away.
Both feet
Attack with the practice foot every other wave.
Heads up
Look up as soon as you win it.
The Colts change: Set up several small grids so waves come every few seconds and no one rests for long. No score kept between teams.
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.