By Alex Trukan
The following practice is designed to improve the body’s capacity to recover between high intensity actions. Developing aerobic power also helps with building a foundation for latter improvement of speed and power. In this practice, the conditioning element is combined with team possession as well as ability to finish. It is a very engaging and high intensity practice, mainly suitable for intermediate and advanced players. From the psychological point of view, it also develops awareness and communication between players.
Set-Up and Directions
Organise a 30 x 30 yards square. Place small goal in each corner of the playing area. Divide the team into two groups of four player. Each group should start with one ball. Designate one player from each team to be a defender and ‘hunt’ for the opposition’s ball. The playing area as well as a number of players on each team can be adapted to suit individual needs.
The practice starts with each team passing the ball between themselves and trying to keep possession of it as long as possible. The emphasis is on movement of the players, communication as well as quality of pass.
On a coach’s signal, designated player from each team can start ‘hunting’ for the opposition’s ball. The aim of each team is to get in possession of both balls. Other players on the team can’t tackle the opposition and their aim is to keep the ball they already have.
As soon as either of the teams gains possession of two balls, their aim is to score both balls in any of the four small goals. All the opposition players can then try to stop the team in possession of two balls from scoring.
Timing
The game should be played 1-3 minutes and repeated 6-10 times in 2 series. The rest between repetitions should be 1-3 minutes and between series – 4 minutes.
Variations
- 3 teams
- One touch finish into goals
- Have to make 3 passes with each ball after winning two balls
