Warm-up · U8
Ready Hands Partner Catch
Secure a gentle partner throw from a balanced standing position.
- Duration
- 6 min
- Players
- 2–4 (ideal 2)
- Goalkeeping
- Movement
Setup
Step 1 of 2
One complete 2-player group is shown. A green GK and blue partner face each other across a comfortable four-metre gap. The blue partner holds one ball for a gentle two-hand underarm throw towards the keeper’s chest; no goal is needed.
Coaching points
- Setup: A green GK and blue partner face each other across a comfortable four-metre gap. The blue partner holds one ball for a gentle two-hand underarm throw towards the keeper’s chest; no goal is needed.
- Play: After GK signals ready, the partner sends one comfortable throw. GK settles the feet, meets the ball with both hands in front and secures it without stepping into the partner’s route. One balanced secure catch is a shared success. A throw outside easy standing reach is allowed to fall; stop and collect it.
- Reset and rotation: Return the ball gently by hand while stopped. Swap keeper and server after three throws; rest after 30 seconds. Change the gap to suit the child, never the force. Every player has both roles.
- Numbers: The diagram shows 2 players. With up to 4, 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: Comfortable bent knees, eyes following the ball and two hands arriving together support a balanced catch. The server is responsible for a catchable delivery and waits for readiness.
- Safety: Adult supervision on level clear ground. Gentle service only; agree readiness before release. Stay on feet: no diving, jumps, contact, slide, contested catch or fast close shot. Stop a missed ball rather than chase. Retrieve and rotate only while play is stopped.
Equipment
- Ball · 2 per group, including a spare
- Flat Marker · 4 per group for field and zone corners, in addition to pictured markers
- Bib · 2 per group; colours match the pictured roles
Progressions
- Easier Pass the ball into waiting hands without throwing, then introduce a very short gentle throw.
- Harder Serve slightly left or right within easy standing reach; the keeper takes one small adjustment before the catch. Keep chest height and gentle pace.
