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 · U11
Strike and Field
A striker places a controlled ground ball through a fielding gap while a partner scores runs in a separate lane until the ball is returned.
- Duration
- 12 min
- Players
- 8–16 (ideal 8)
- Passing
- Scanning
- Teamwork
Setup
Step 1 of 2
One complete 8-player group is shown. Use a striker and runner, with four fielders, a gentle server and a collector. Fielders stay in the front fielding area; the runner stays in a separate marked lane behind the strike area. One ball is active.
Coaching points
- Setup: Use a striker and runner, with four fielders, a gentle server and a collector. Fielders stay in the front fielding area; the runner stays in a separate marked lane behind the strike area. One ball is active.
- Play: The server gently rolls to the striker, who controls and passes into a fielding gap. The partner begins running only after the strike; each there-and-back run earns one. A fielder stops the ball with their feet and returns a ground pass to the collector. Collector control ends the run count and stops play.
- Reset and rotation: The runner returns to the start with the ball stopped. Swap striker/runner after the first delivery; after two deliveries, a new pair bats and the outgoing pair takes fielding roles. Rotate server and collector too so everyone experiences striking, running and fielding.
- Numbers: The diagram shows 8 players. With up to 16, 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: Select a clear gap using pass weight rather than power. Fielders scan before returning; the runner completes controlled turns inside the separate lane.
- Safety: No aerial serve, heading, contact or racing into the field. Use feet for controlled fielding; the server and collector stand clear of the strike route. Stop if the ball enters the running lane and collect only after everyone stops.
Equipment
- Ball · 2 per group, including a spare
- Flat Marker · 2 per group
- Flat Marker · 14 per group for field and zone corners, in addition to pictured markers
- Bib · 8 per group; colours match the pictured roles
Progressions
- Easier Use a stationary ball for the strike and let the runner walk a shorter there-and-back lane.
- Harder Fielders change their starting spacing before service so the striker chooses a new gap; keep the same controlled pace and separated spaces.
