Week *7 Hexagon Passing

Instructions/Setup:

This hexagon-shaped passing practice is designed to encourage quick combination play with individual movements. Set up six players in a hexagon formation with one player in each position. Players will pass the ball around the hexagon in an anti-clockwise direction, playing quick 1-2 touch football. The focus is on maintaining quick, fluid movements, while always looking to connect and move the ball as a team.

The ball should circulate around the hexagon, and after a few rotations, the coach can introduce more complexity, such as adding defenders or limiting touches per player to increase the challenge. Ensure players are consistently working on their first touch and passing accuracy during the exercise.

Coaching Notes:

• Quick, one- and two-touch passing – Emphasize the importance of quick decision-making and fluid movement with the ball. Players should be encouraged to keep the ball moving rapidly around the hexagon.

• Open body positioning – Ensure players are receiving the ball with an open body shape, which allows for quicker passes and smoother transitions between players.

• Awareness of space – Players need to keep their heads up, scanning for passing options and maintaining awareness of other players' movements.

• Consistent movement – Encourage players to move dynamically, constantly adjusting their position to offer support and create passing lanes for their teammates.

Progression 1: Add a Defender

Introduce a defender into the hexagon who can apply pressure on the ball carrier. This will force the attacking players to make quicker decisions and increase the intensity of their passing.

Focus: Improve decision-making under pressure and the ability to keep the ball moving even when confronted by a defender.

Progression 2: Limited Touches

Limit each player to one touch per pass, which will increase the speed of play and improve their ability to control the ball under pressure.

Focus: Enhance quick thinking and passing accuracy, and develop players’ ability to control the tempo of the game under tight conditions.