Drip Feed Competing Pairs

Focus

Games & Races.

Skills

Preliminary Moves & Passing, Shooting, Defensive Moves, Vision & Quick Decisions.

Purpose

Gradually increasing the number of contesting players varies the space, passing options and shifts the focus from possession to scoring.

Players

12⁺

Ages

6⁺

Balls

Cones

Distance (max)

Opp. tops

50%

Visible opposition strip: 50%

Setup
Form two equal teams, dividing up the talent. Assign ends and pick 2 x opposing pairs (GS & GK) and 2 x (GA and GD) pairs. Only goalies can score. Instead of having (C + WD + WA), give remaining players a number from 1-3. Opposing pairs are dispersed around the sidelines, standing next to their opponent.
Step 1
Pick a number from (1-3) to start, that pair enter the court and start with a centre pass (give one team the honours).
Step 2
Call a number from 1..3 of an inactive pair. The two opposition players with this number enter the playing space, and play begins.

1. Numbered players can move anywhere except the goal circles

2. Numbered players cannot shoot until a goalie is on court, simply retain possession.

3. Be a little lenient with the held-ball rule at the start
Step 3
Introduce the third of the numbered pairs and let the drill run a little while with no shooters, in possession-only mode.
Step 4
Now call "GA!" then "GS!" - in any order- allowing the 2 x opposing attackers and their defenders in: Now either team can score.

4 players enter when you call "GA" (2 x GA, 2 x GD)

4 players enter when you call "GS" (2 x GS, 2 x GK)

These players can run anywhere except the opposition defensive third
Step 5
After a goal is scored or turnover effected, players return to starting position on sideline. Rotate centre pass and restart.

If uneven numbers, interchange the reserve with team mate who was (C) last contest
Step 6
Progression: If you have 14 players., introduce multiple pairs together, e.g. call ("2!" and "GA!")