1/12 Field Training- Ball Movement

However, all skill learning is sequential, and eventually the coach must elevate the comfort zone, or players would rarely be able to get shots off in games. Tarasov said in each of his books, “Players did not like this (pushing them out of their comfort zone). They complained to the coaches, but we told them this is the way it would be. We are not here to entertain you.”
-Anatoli Tarasov

0-10 Tennis Ball Work
We had them work in groups of 3 with one thrower and the 2 other players had to fight to catch the ball.  Just like battling for a header.

10-20 Ball Masters
We added another 30 seconds to our routine today.

20-30 3 Cone Passing and Receiving Technique

-Partners start 10-15 yards away from the cones.
-The first partner passes the ball to her partner and moves to receive the return pass.
-The second partner takes her first touch diagonally across the cones, takes a second touch to set the ball up.  Then passes the ball back across to her partner.

Key Points:
-Take three touches.  The set up touch, before the pass, is crucial.  This touch allows the passer to get her hips square and lead her partner with a good pass. *Remember, great players make their teammates look good.  Leading them in the right direction with a pass is the sign of a smart player.
-After you pass the ball move quickly, while facing the ball, to get into position to receive the pass.  For the last couple of steps, turn and run backwards so you are facing the middle of the grid where you want to go.

Variations:
-Have the players take different types of first touches; inside touch, outside touch, cruyff ect.

30-60 7v3+7v3 Transition/Possession Game
We start this out with a passing and moving exercise.
-Make a 40x50 yard grid and split it into halves.
-Start all the blue on side and the reds on another side.
-After you pass the ball move quickly to the other side.

Key Points:
-Move quickly to the other side after you pass the ball so one side does not become overloaded with players.
-Play the ball at angles.  No flat passes.
-Play the way you face and play simple.  This will keep the ball moving faster.
-Start with unlimited touches, then go to 2 touch and finish with 1 touch.

After working on the key points with the passing and moving portion we moved into the 7v3 Transition Possession Game.

-Start with all the blues on one side and 3 reds are the defenders.
-Blue plays keep away from the reds.
-Every 5 consecutive passes is worth a point.
-If red wins the ball they turn and play it to a teammate on their side.
-The 3 reds that were defending return to their side and 3 blues go to the reds side as defenders.
-First team to 5 points wins.

Key Points:
-Play simple and the way you face
-If you lose the ball, try to win in back before the other team can play it back across to their side.

60-75 Scrimmage