Nevada Smith evasion game for 5 to 8 years

The rules

Set up two teams facing each other at opposite sides of the playing area (the “swamp”). One team is the “bandits”, the other team comprises “Nevada Smiths”.

Give the “treasure” (a ball) to the first Nevada Smith, who must try and escape from the swamp, either through the side or the far end, without being caught (tagged or touch tackled) by the bandits.

Set-up

Area: 8m long x 5m wide.

Equipment: One ball, bibs (if available), tag belts (if used).

Players: Eight – two teams of four.

Scoring

• One point for each Nevada Smith who escapes from the side of the swamp with the treasure.
• Two points for each Nevada Smith who escapes from the end of the swamp with the treasure.
• One point to the bandits for each Nevada Smith captured.

What to call out

• “Look for space and move into it”
• “Take short steps when changing direction”
• “Keep your head up to see what’s going on”
• “Use fast feet”

Coaching tips

Change the two teams over after everyone in the first team has been Nevada Smith.