The 3 and 1 challenge

1. SQUARE THE SQUARE

Put a player on each corner of a coned square. Start the ball as per the illustration. 

The ball carrier passes the ball one way, then runs to the spare cone. The next player receives the pass and then passes again, running to the cone the previous passer left. 

This process continues, with the ball moving around the box in one direction, while the players move in another. Challenge the players to complete three ‘circles’ – then, challenge them to do it, but with no player holding the ball for more than three seconds. Change the size of the box to suit.

2. PICK-THE-POPS

Three players stand 3m away from a ball on the ground. Each player shouts “1, 2, 3” and the name of a player in the group (possibly their own).

If any name is said by more than one, they are the nominated ball-picker. The picker races to the ball and picks-and-pops it up to another player, who has to pass it to the third player. Challenge the players to do this so the two receivers are running onto the ball, and the last pass is before the receiver has passed the original passer.

For less experienced groups, put the ball further away from the start.

3. MY 2 V 1

Put a ball carrier at the apex of a triangle of cones, facing two attackers. The ball carrier passes the ball to one of the players, and then runs forward to pressurise that receiver.

The receiver takes the ball, runs forward and passes the ball to the other player. The challenge is to make sure the second player is running forward when they receive the ball, so the player who takes the initial pass should run forward.

4. BLOCKER

A receiver starts between two cones, about 2m apart, with a ball carrier 5m away. A blocker stands anywhere between the ball carrier and the receiver (normally closer to the receiver). 

The ball carrier throws the ball over the blocker. The challenge is to throw the ball accurately over the blocker and land it into the 2m area. The receiver must catch it between the cones. They cannot move from side to side. Go through three attempts and then swap roles.

Adjust the distances to suit, but don’t make the receiving box too long – you want a high, looping pass.