Switch On

The Rules

Play 6v6 or, if you have odd numbers, use a floater that can play for either team.

The teams try to score a point by passing to a team mate in one of the corner boxes.

Players can move freely around the area but can only enter the corner boxes at the same time as the ball. If they enter a corner box too early this is considered offside. This encourages players to time their runs.

In addition, the ball must be played from any of the larger areas except the one in which the corner box is being targeted. This needs longer passes and quick switching of play.

Upon scoring a point possession is maintained. To re-score in the same corner box the ball must leave that quarter of the area before returning.

Play to, say, 10 points before changing teams around.

Main Objectives

Helping players understand how, when and why we switch play in a game.

Set Up

Area: 60×40 yards divided into four rectangles with 8×8 yard squares in each corner
Players: 12
Equipment: Cones, balls

 

 

What To Call Out

“Find space”
“Is the switch on?”
“Don’t run into the box too soon”

Progression

Insist that points can only be scored with lofted or chipped passes and must not hit the ground before entering the box.
Give a bonus point if the ball is controlled in the air – using the chest for example – thus encouraging aerial control skills.

Hint

Avoid crowding in one area by encouraging players to keep moving.