Transition End Zone Game

Objective

• -Reward forward passing and running with the ball
• -Create a game that works without goals
• -Encourage runs beyond the defensive line

Setup

1. 1A pitch with a three-yard end zone at each end in a 40 x 30 yards area.
2. 2Mark a second target area at the opposite end so the practice can flip direction instantly.
3. 3Balls with the coach, two sets of bibs.

How to play

1. 1Teams score by controlling the ball inside the opposition end zone.
2. 2The ball must be passed into the zone, not dribbled in.
3. 3Restart immediately from the conceding team.
4. 4Coach serves a loose ball into the middle and both teams react to win it.
5. 5On every turnover the winning team has six seconds to attack the opposite target.

Progressions

• +Cut the counter window to four seconds
• +Raise the demand once the group is consistently successful

Regressions

• -Freeze the play for two seconds after each turnover to reset shape
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Coach can serve a second ball to force an instant re-transition
• -Run the practice on the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Runs made too early
• -Passing into the zone with nobody there
• -Stopping to appeal instead of reacting to the turnover