The following is a three-progression, tight-space passing activity that can be used for day before a game, day of travel or regeneration day training. It was observed by SoccerSpecific Staff at an LA Galaxy full team training session. The Galaxy then went on to win the MLS cup.
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Activity #1:
Setup:
26 field players plus 3 GK’s. Passing sequence 17X10 yard rectangle, three groups of 9-10 players, three identical set ups. Two players at each cone. 3 variations 2 minutes each, both clockwise and counter clockwise. 10 minutes total.
Instructions:
As shown above, two balls working at the same time. Player A dribbles half way and plays it to player B, player B does a wall pass with player A and then plays into player C. Player C combines with player B and then combines with player D as shown. Player D dribbles at pace and then starts the same sequence with player E. Player E, F, and G combine as shown. 2 minutes each direction. Players follow their pass and rotate one spot forward.
Coaching Points:
- Technical passing and dribbling
- Quality of passes and lay-offs
- Pulling away from the poles (defenders)
- Movement off the ball
- Checking your shoulder before receiving the ball
- Speed of play
Activity #2:
Setup:
26 field players plus 3 GK’s. Passing sequence 17X10 yard rectangle, three groups of 9-10, three identical set ups. Two players at each cone. 3 variations 2 minutes each, both clockwise and counter clockwise. 10 minutes total.
Instructions:
As shown above, player A dribbles at pace half way and then plays it to player B who lays it back to player A. Player A wall passes with player B who then plays it to player D, player D lays it back to player B who then plays it to player C, player C wall passes with player B and collects it on the other side of the pole. Player C combines with Player D as shown and dribbles at pace to other side. Follow same sequence for players E,F, and G. Players advance one pole, 2 minutes each direction.
Coaching Points:
- Technical passing and dribbling
- Quality of passes and lay-offs
- Pulling away from the poles (defenders)
- Movement off the ball
- Checking your shoulder before receiving the ball
- Speed of play
Activity #3:
Setup:
26 field players plus 3 GK’s. Passing sequence 17X10 yard rectangle, three groups of 9-10, three identical set ups. Two players at each cone. 3 variations 2 minutes each, both clockwise and counter clockwise. 10 minutes total.
Instructions:
As shown above, player A dribbles at pace half way and then plays it to player B who lays it back to player A. Player A hits a diagonal ball to Player D, Player D lays it off to Player B who wall passes with Player C. Player C wall passes with Player D who penetrates to the other side as shown. Follow same sequence for players E,F, and G. Players advance one pole, 2 minutes each direction.
Coaching Points:
- Technical passing and dribbling
- Quality of passes and lay-offs
- Pulling away from the poles (defenders)
- Movement off the ball
- Checking your shoulder before receiving the ball
- Speed of play