Defend against attackers

U7 MINI-TAG | DEFENDING 2

ACTIVITY: TAG BULLDOG

1. Three defenders are spread out in the middle of the area. The rest of the players – the attackers – start at one end. Attackers must either be carrying a ball or have their hands clasped together to represent holding a ball.
2. When you say “go”, all of the attackers run into the area. Their aim is to get to the far end without being tagged by a defender.
3. If an attacker is either tagged, goes outside the area, uses a fend to prevent the tag being ripped off, or does not hold the ball in two hands, he becomes a defender.
4. Run the game up and down the area until the last player is tagged. Make sure everyone has a go as a defender.
5. When the game is over, ask the defenders whether they think it’s better to defend together in a line or as individuals to see if they understand the benefit of teamwork.

What you say

“Chase the ball carrier”

“Get close to the ball carrier”

How many players do I need?

You can run this activity with nine or more players. If you have upwards of 20 players, run two games side by side.

You will need

• 1 ball per attacker (or hands clasped together)
• 4 cones
• Bibs (optional)
• 1 tag belt for each player