Changing Allies
Four pairs change allies on a clear coach call, then combine towards the two targets belonging to the opposing alliance.
- 12 min
- 8–16 players
Game · U8
Target Pins Match
Each team protects a line of upright cones while using passes and support to find a ground route to the opposing pins.
- Duration
- 10 min
- Players
- 6–12 (ideal 6)
- Passing
- Scanning
- Teamwork
Setup
Step 1 of 2
One complete 6-player group is shown. Three blue and three red play between protected two-metre pin zones. Put three upright cones in each zone; players stay out of both zones. Start with one ball in the middle.
Coaching points
- Setup: Three blue and three red play between protected two-metre pin zones. Put three upright cones in each zone; players stay out of both zones. Start with one ball in the middle.
- Play: A ground pass that topples an opposing cone scores one. Stop, stand that cone back up and restart with the defending team; keep all targets available. Defenders may intercept or block the travelling ball but cannot tackle, stand among the pins or use their hands.
- Reset and rotation: After each 45-second bout, pause and swap ends and starting passer. Ball out restarts with the other team from a clear middle position. No elimination or waiting team is used.
- Numbers: The diagram shows 6 players. With up to 12, use a second complete group in a separate area. Odd spare players rest off the area and rotate into a playing role every 45 seconds; everyone has equal turns.
- Coach focus: Create an angle to a pin rather than striking through an opponent. A support player should move into view before asking for a pass.
- Safety: Controlled ground passes, no contact and no entry into pin zones. Retrieve and reset only while play is stopped; use soft training cones, never rigid objects.
Equipment
- Ball · 2 per group, including a spare
- Cone · 6 per group
- Flat Marker · 8 per group for field and zone corners, in addition to pictured markers
- Bib · 6 per group; colours match the pictured roles
Progressions
- Easier Widen the space between the pins and let the receiver settle before an interception attempt.
- Harder A team must use a support pass before attempting a pin, preserving the same opposed target task.
