Circle Connect

Objective

• -Wake players up with simple movement and shape
• -Introduce angles and support around the ball
• -Get players ready to work together

Setup

1. 1Set a 20 x 20 yard square with cones.
2. 2Mark a small circle in the middle with cones.
3. 3Players spread around the outside, one ball for the group.

How to play

1. 1Players pass around the outside of the square and into the middle circle.
2. 2After passing, they move to a new space to keep the shape changing.
3. 3The coach calls out a direction for the team to shift together.
4. 4Keep touches light and movement constant.
5. 5Use both feet and keep the ball safe.

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

• -Standing still after passing
• -All players rushing to the same spot
• -Heavy first touches