Thread the Needle

Introductory Activity

Purpose

Working in groups of three students will be forced to communicate with their group members and be continually aware of the space around them. This drill emphasizes continual movement and adjustment, as well as ball control and height for time.

On-the-ball skills

Sending

Receiving

Off-the-ball movements

Base

Adjust

Cover

Movement in all directions

Aim:

To make as many successful passes to your teammates as you can within the time limit.

Rules

1. Each contact counts as one point

2. Multiple contacts by the same person only counts as one

3. Count must be restarted if an error occurs (ie. ball bounces)

Organization

This skill can be introduced through a student demo that includes the teacher. Players will be grouped in three with students of higher ability working with students of lower ability.

Possible Modifications

Allow bounce before contact

Allow catch and toss to self

Have multiple contacts

Questioning / Cues

How did you become more successful? Pass the ball higher, communicate to partner (“here, here” so they know where to pass), cover shorter distances.

What helped you to not bump into other groups? Always looking to where you move and pass, lots of communication, short passes.