Bounce Off Game

Objective

• -Use bounce passes to break lines
• -Support the ball after passing
• -React quickly when possession changes

Setup

1. 1Mark a rectangle with cones and two end scoring lines.
2. 2Split players into two teams with bibs.
3. 3Players start spread across the pitch, with one ball from the coach.
4. 4Make the pitch narrow enough to reward quick combinations.

How to play

1. 1A goal or point is scored by playing a pass to a team-mate who returns it first time or with one touch to a third player.
2. 2Encourage players to play a bounce pass and move straight away.
3. 3If the ball is won, the new team can attack immediately in the opposite direction.
4. 4Restart quickly from the side after the ball goes out or a score is made.
5. 5Keep reminding players to show for the ball at different angles.

Progressions

• +Switch To Score: two switches before scoring
• +Five Second Counter-Press: three seconds to win it back
• +Target Zone Bonus: only goals started from a pocket count
• +Add a competitive scoreline for the last round

Regressions

• -Switch To Score: switch earns a bonus point rather than being compulsory
• -Five Second Counter-Press: eight seconds and fewer opponents
• -Target Zone Bonus: widen the pocket zones
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Switch To Score — A goal only counts after the ball has been switched from one side of the pitch to the other.
• -Five Second Counter-Press — On losing the ball the team has five seconds to win it back before dropping into shape.
• -Target Zone Bonus — Extra points for playing into marked pockets between the lines before finishing.
• -Overload Rotation — One team plays with an extra player for two minutes then the overload rotates.
• -Restart Realism — All restarts are played as in a match — throw-ins, goal kicks and corners rather than a coach ball.
• -Two-Goal Decision — Each team attacks two small goals, so defenders must decide which threat to cover.
• -Limited Touch Build-Up — Maximum three touches in your own half, unlimited once you pass the halfway line.
• -Flip the practice to the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Watching after passing
• -Receiving on the back foot
• -Crowding one area