Setup:Grid Dimensions: Set up a square grid approximately 15x15 yards for the girls' team and a 20x20 yard grid for the boys' team to account for increased intensity. Player Arrangement: Place 6-8 players (attackers) around the perimeter of the grid. Girlsâ Team: Start with 3 defenders in the center. Boysâ Team: Start with 4 defenders in the center. Instructions:Attacking Team (Perimeter Players): Keep possession by splitting defenders with accurate and quick passes. Use 1-2 touch passing to maintain tempo. Movement off the ball is essential to create passing options. Defensive Team (Central Players): Girlsâ Team: Work as a group of 3 to press the ball, communicate, and intercept passes. Boysâ Team: Use a coordinated block of 4 defenders: 1 presses the ball. 2 cut off passing lanes. 1 maintains the defensive shape, shadowing the attackers' movements and communicating with teammates. Transitions: Once defenders win the ball or attackers make a poor pass, the drill resets: Girls: 3 new defenders replace the current group. Boys: The defender who successfully intercepts the ball rotates out, and a new player steps into the center. Game Duration: Each round lasts 2-3 minutes, then rotate players to ensure everyone practices as both attackers and defenders.
Coaching Points:Attackers: Passing and Movement: Play quick, accurate passes with 1-2 touches. Move to open space after passing to offer continuous support. Decision-Making: Look for opportunities to split defenders with through passes. Avoid forcing risky passes; prioritize possession. Defenders: Communication: Constantly talk to teammates to signal pressing, covering, and blocking responsibilities. Coordination: Maintain defensive shape while pressing to avoid leaving gaps. Boysâ team: Execute the "diamond" shape with clear rolesâpressing, lane-cutting, and anchoring. General Tips: Emphasize speed and intensity for both attackers and defenders. Reinforce that the goal is not just winning the ball but doing so efficiently without breaking shape.
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