Ground Cross Protection
A defender keeps both runner and ball in view and selects a clear interception point on a low wide service.
- 12 min
- 4–8 players
Drill · U16
Track and Hand Over
Two defenders communicate a receiver handover when a moving opponent crosses into the teammate’s zone.
- Duration
- 12 min
- Players
- 5–10 (ideal 5)
- Defending
- Scanning
- Communication
Setup
Step 1 of 2
One complete 5-player group is shown. A protected blue server stands left of two adjacent receiver zones. Two blue receivers and two red defenders occupy those zones, one red responsible for each. One ball begins with the server; the coach supervises outside. The server cannot be challenged.
Coaching points
- Setup: A protected blue server stands left of two adjacent receiver zones. Two blue receivers and two red defenders occupy those zones, one red responsible for each. One ball begins with the server; the coach supervises outside. The server cannot be challenged.
- Play: Blue receivers walk between zones to offer a ground pass. The defender tracking a crossing receiver calls the handover, and the teammate confirms before adjusting to the new receiver. The original defender stays in its zone and checks the remaining threat. The server waits until the call and safe spacing are clear, then passes.
- Play continued: A clean travelling-ball interception earns red one; an unpressured blue reception ends the attempt.
- Reset and rotation: Stop after the pass or if a handover is missed. Return the ball to the server, reset both receivers and rotate all five through server, receiver and defender roles each two attempts. Rest after 45 seconds; the coach repeats unclear calls before resuming.
- Numbers: The diagram shows 5 players. With up to 10, 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: See the receiver and ball without following blindly across the boundary. A call names the player and the teammate confirms responsibility; if confirmation is absent, stop and rehearse instead of leaving an unowned receiver.
- Safety: Ground passes only. Walking opposition may intercept travelling or exposed balls, never tackle an occupied foot, slide, push or force contact. Stop when routes converge; collect and change roles only with play stopped. The server is protected and service waits for a confirmed handover.
Equipment
- Ball · 2 per group, including a spare
- Flat Marker · 8 per group for field and zone corners, in addition to pictured markers
- Bib · 5 per group; colours match the pictured roles
Progressions
- Easier One receiver crosses slowly while the other stays still; pause at the boundary to exchange the call.
- Harder Either receiver may cross before service, with one crossing at a time and explicit confirmation; no blind-side collision or faster chase.
