Front Foot or Back Foot
A receiver shows the foot and body angle that will help them connect with the next outlet, giving the passer useful delivery information.
- 10 min
- 4–8 players
Drill · U15
Long Pass Cushion
A receiver cushions a longer diagonal ground delivery into a controlled next touch, then connects with a nearby return partner.
- Duration
- 12 min
- Players
- 6–12 (ideal 6)
- Receiving
- Passing
- First Touch
Setup
Step 1 of 2
One complete 6-player group is shown. Use two separated trio lanes. Each has a distant server, receiver and nearby return partner. Start with one ball at each server; keep the gap between lanes clear.
Coaching points
- Setup: Use two separated trio lanes. Each has a distant server, receiver and nearby return partner. Start with one ball at each server; keep the gap between lanes clear.
- Play: Alternate lanes: the server delivers a controlled diagonal ground pass, the receiver settles it beside the flat marker and makes a short pass to the return partner. One controlled receive-and-connect cycle earns one quality point. The return partner sends the ball back along the clear outside edge.
- Reset and rotation: Finish each lane’s return before the other lane starts. Rotate the three roles every 45 seconds with both balls stopped; walk to new positions. Stop all deliveries before retrieving a stray ball.
- 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: Watch the ball’s pace early and soften the receiving contact. A good first touch leaves the short connection reachable without chasing.
- Safety: Ground service only, no heading or contested reception. Reduce the server distance and pace when control is lost; keep returns outside the receiving route.
Equipment
- Ball · 3 per group, including a spare
- Flat Marker · 2 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 Bring the server closer and allow a second settling touch before the short connection.
- Harder The server varies the weight within a comfortable ground range, so the receiver adjusts the cushioning contact.
