Challenge accepted

WHY USE IT

Gives players an environment to fully concentrate on challenging for the ball.

SET UP

Set out a small rectangular area with two end zones. The area size should allow the attacker to reach the opposite end zone easily and quickly once they get past the defender. Split players into three roles: attacker, defender and server. The server is situated just outside the area, the attacker starts inside an end zone and the defender is in the main area.

HOW TO PLAY

The server plays into the attacker who tries to get to the other end zone. Once the attacker has had their first touch, the defender can attempt to win the ball. If the attacker reaches the end zone, the ball is returned to the server and the practice continues in the opposite direction. If the defender wins the ball, they try to get to the end zone where their opponent started and then becomes the attacker. The practice continues this way with the players taking it in turns to be the server.

COACHING POINTS

• What body position should you be in?
• Can you concentrate on the ball? Can you identify prompts for the moment to attempt to win the ball?
• Can you get the physical contact right to be successful?