Passing Warm Up

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Introduction:

This passing warm up starts simple, for younger / less experienced players but can be expanded upon to include a wide range of coaching points around link up play, providing an angle for a pass, different types of pass (short and long range), communication and movement off the ball. By adding defenders we create pressure for the players and make the practice more game-relevant. 

Setup:

• Several 25 x 10 yard rectangles marked out with cones. Enough rectangles for 3 players per rectangle, so 12 players = 4 rectangles etc.
• Each rectangle has one player at each end and one central player.
• One ball between 3 in each rectangle.
• Coach with more footballs to the side.

Basic Rules:

• Each group of 3 players passes the ball from one end of the rectangle to the other, always going through the middle player (to start with).
• End players stay at each end of the rectangle and the central player roams anywhere they like within their rectangle to be a good passing option.
• Coach plays a new ball in if existing ball flies off a long way, so as to keep things moving.
• Rotate player roles regularly so all get a turn being the central player.

Progressions & Variations:

• Responding to cues - end players can choose to do a turn or a trick before playing their pass back in to the central player. This is a sign for the other end player and the central player to switch roles.
• Play in one or two touch.
• Encourage using both feet or insist on use of a particular foot (different for different players)
• Allow end players to go long and pass to the other end player sometimes (mix it up)
• Have 4 players per rectangle with 2 central players who can combine (bounce pass, one-two etc.) before playing to the other end.
• Introduce one or two defenders whose job it is to try and win the ball from any of the groups.
• Allow players to move up and down the area and not be locked in their rectangles = traffic of other players / more awareness required to know where your team mates are.

5 Key Coaching Points / Challenges:

• Body shape of central player - can they open up their body and receive the ball on their back foot to play forwards? Can their body shape allow them to see both of the end players?
• Weight and direction of pass - can the pass give the receiving player the best chance of being able to play their next pass quickly?
• Movement of central player - after they have played the ball, can they move into a new space to receive the next pass? Mix it up - go long, come short, but always being on the half turn to play forwards.
• Communication - tell the player passing to you where you want the ball (can be verbal or by pointing).
• Play with your head up - know where your team mates are at all times.

Coaching Points (FA's 4 Corners):

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