Grid Passing and Defending
Game/Task Outline

Tactical Problem: Using space in attack. To make efficient passes to elude the defender.
Skill development: Maximum certainty of movements . Locating space and repositioning so accurate passes can be made. Consistency in off-the-ball movements (support, forcing teammate to reposition, create time).
Teaching Points:
  • Similar to previous grid game, but to add tactical complexity, the teacher adds a defender. Forces students to problem solve and make better decisions.
  • To understand the value and use of support. 
  • Always be moving, looking for open spaces to help support others.
  • Receive the pass on the run. Important to have control of the ball before exercising a pass. Absorb the ball with foot. Do this by cradling the ball as it approaches the foot.
  • Make easy passes, preferably a straight line.
  • Defending space. Must defend ball carrier.
  • Defender may also use fakes to apply pressure onto ball carrier to make a inaccurate passes.
  • Begin game with the defender using a walking pace. As students succeed in completions, then allow the defender to attack at regular pace.

 

 
Similar to previous activity, but now to add tactical complexity, a defender is added. Without a defender the students got used to the movement involved. With a defender, problem solving and decision making comes into effect. Defender must attack ball carrier. Encourage defender to begin at a walking pace, then increase speed.

 
 
 

 
Organizational Points:
  • Use of 4 students only in this game. One can get a ball, while the other set up. A teacher can use 5 students in this game if one agrees to be a coach.
  • If a student coach is implemented, then rotate positions after a certain amount of time or completions.
  • As students begin to understand the tactics of this game, introduce new rules. If defender is having difficulties, then make a rule where the offense can only pass on straight lines not angles.
  • If offense is having difficulties, then allow the students to call out names of the students who are intended to receive a pass or locate to another space.
  • For an uncompromising rotation technique, allow rotation when the defender intercepts or regains possession of the ball. The student who made the turn over must become the defender and the previous defender assumes his/her position in the grid.