By Daniel Severn
This week we have an easy to set up, fun, but hard working exercise. This exercise works well with groups of either five or six players.
Set Up and Directions
The exercise is set up as shown below. The exercise runs with a simple passing combination running around the outside of the marked square (around 10-15 yards each side). Ensure to have 2 or more players at the starting cone and only 1 player per spare cone, as shown.
The ball will be passed around the area in an anti-clockwise rotation. The players must sprint to the previous cone (clockwise) before sprinting to the next cone in the rotation.
Play begins with the player with the ball (bottom right) passing the player he is facing (top right). The passer then checks to the previous cone before sprinting to the cone he passed the ball toward. The receiving player must open up with their first touch, using their back foot – the one further away from where the pass was made and then play the next pass with the second touch.
[wpsharely id="1886"][/wpsharely]
As shown, the rotation is the same for the second player.
Timing
I would usually have a number of groups running at the same time (two or three depending on squad numbers). With this, it is simple to turn it into a competition and add in a harder working/faster environment. I like to challenge the groups to compete against each other I.e. first group to complete 4 circuits. Maybe add in rules such as which foot to use for the first touch / one touch only, etc.
Variations
- You could add in strength work in place of the sprint, e.g 5 push ups before moving to the next cone. Again, they would have to be performed fast in order to get to the next cone before receiving the next pass.
- Vary the first touch.
- Passing with the laces.
- Larger area (more challenging for the pass and the sprints).
I hope you enjoy the exercise!
Dan
Program Director
BRASA Brazilian Soccer Academy
@coach_danny
