Week 22 Pass & Press Activation

Instructions/Setup:

This practice takes place in a compact 10 by 10-yard area and serves as a warm-up to activate players' passing and pressing intensity ahead of the session. Set up a small grid with four players working inside—two pairs. One pair begins in possession while the other applies light pressure. The objective is for the pressing pair to work together to win the ball quickly, while the pair in possession focuses on sharp passing and movement to retain the ball and stay composed.

Coaching Notes:

• Pressing intensity – Encourage defenders to close space quickly and press with aggression, using their body shape to force mistakes and working together to apply constant pressure throughout the drill.

• Sharp passing – Players in possession must play quick, accurate passes with minimal touches and constant movement to avoid being closed down by defenders reacting at full intensity.

• Angle of support – Encourage players to adjust their angle quickly after each pass to stay connected, offer options, and allow for clean progression of the ball under defensive pressure.

• Body position – Players should stay light on their feet, keep a low, athletic stance, and always remain ready to react quickly when pressing or receiving passes under tight conditions.

Progression 1: Limit Touches

Restrict the number of touches for the attacking pair (e.g., two-touch max) to increase speed of play, reduce hesitation, and encourage faster ball circulation in tight spaces.

Focus: Improve speed of play and composure under pressure by challenging players to make quicker decisions in limited space.

Progression 2: Rotate Roles on Turnover

When the defenders win possession, they switch roles immediately with the attacking pair to maintain intensity and ensure both sides develop pressing and possession skills equally.

Focus: Improve transition speed and maintain high physical and mental engagement by simulating live changes of possession.