Stop and pass – putting pace onto the ball

Though we like players to pass on the run, for younger players it’s good if they can run, stop and pass to make sure they keep a move flowing and bring other players into the game.

If you want to create a bit of width in your game, use this exercise to create opportunities to move the ball wide.

1. Three players start at one end of the box with the ball carrier opposite the nearest “stop box”.

1. The ball carrier runs forward and stops in the box. They then pass to the player next to them.
2. This player runs to the next stop box and repeats. The last receiver and all the other players run to the end of the area. They then turn and repeat.

DEVELOPMENTS

• You can time how quickly they can complete four up and downs.
• You will need to adjust the boxes so they can pass from the other side (their weaker hand).
• Finally, develop by having the first player loop around the back of the second and third player to take a pass from the third player, who stops in the box in front of them.

TECHNIQUE

• Look at who you are passing to.
• Hands out to receive the pass.
• Finish with hands towards the receiver after the pass