Week 10 Technical Passing: Develop The Pentagon

Instructions/Setup:

This technical practice takes place in a 20 by 25-yard area and focuses on developing players' passing combinations when playing with a pentagon setup.

To set up, create a pentagon shape using cones in the middle of the area, with one player at each cone. The players will move through the sequence playing various passes such as diagonals, set passes, 1-2 combinations, and square balls. The players should work on maintaining a fluid passing rhythm as they move through the different passes, focusing on sharp and accurate deliveries.

The practice will begin with a player at each cone, and one player will start with the ball. They will pass to the next player, making sure to follow their pass to the next cone. The other players will continue making passes using different combinations as they work their way around the pentagon. Players should rotate positions so everyone gets a chance to perform each type of pass.

Coaching Notes:

• Passing weight and accuracy – Focus on making sure each pass is of the correct weight and is played accurately to the intended target. Players should aim for a firm pass that allows their teammate to control it easily.

• One-touch combinations – Encourage players to use one-touch passing wherever possible, which will help them develop quick decision-making and improve their ability to combine with teammates under pressure.

• Use both feet – Emphasize using both feet when performing passing combinations, as this will make the player more versatile and help them become more comfortable in different game situations.

• Movement and timing – Players should focus on timing their runs and passes to maintain fluidity in the exercise. Moving to the correct cone after making a pass will ensure they are in position to receive the next ball.

Progression 1: Increase Pass Variety

Introduce additional types of passes, such as lofted balls or longer diagonal passes, to develop players' ability to switch the play and pass over distance.

Focus: Improve the players' range of passing and ability to make different types of passes in a dynamic, game-like situation.

Progression 2: Add Pressure

Introduce a defender to apply light pressure on the players as they work through the passing combinations. The attacker must react to the pressure by making quicker decisions and executing passes under pressure.

Focus: Improve decision-making, passing accuracy, and composure when under defensive pressure.