Block the Central Lead

Focus

Fitness Conditioning.

Skills

Preliminary Moves & Passing, Footwork & Agility, Defensive Moves.

Purpose

Footwork drill requiring defenders keep opponents wide, stopping central passes that open-up space for them.

Players

2⁺

Ages

6⁺

Balls

Cones

Distance (max)

Setup
Pair-up with someone of similar stature and elect attacker (A) and defender (B). Pairs are positioned intermittently around the sideline, with defender (B) on the inside.
Step 1
Players begin by running clockwise around the court at 50% intensity. (B) shadows (A), watchful for a dodge.
Step 2
Every now and then, (A) attempts to run in-court. (B) must use fast feet to block (A)'s path

First turn, (A) performs lead and dodge at 50% intensity, making it easier for (B) to block
Step 3
(A) can't pass, so slows and jogs back to the side/baseline. Players resume jogging around the court edge, until (A) attempts another run inside.

(A) gradually increases the intensity of the dodging until they're going at full-pace

(B) shadows (A) throughout, even when returning to the sideline
Step 4
After 30-45 seconds, call 'Reverse!'. Players perform an immediate change of direction and flow-of-play reverses.

Everyone travels anti-clockwise around the square
Step 5
After 2+ laps of (B) defending (A)'s preliminary moves, call 'Change!'. Defenders and attackers change roles and position on court. Repeat.