Week 65 Warm Up Race

Instructions/Setup:

In this FUN warm-up practice, players will compete head-to-head in a race to score into mini goals for points. Teams earn 1 point for a goal, but they will earn an additional point if they score the first goal, encouraging players to find a balance between speed and precision in their play.

The practice begins with the coach calling out 2 numbers between 1 and 3. Each player must sprint to touch the two corresponding numbered poles in order, before progressing to the next phase, which involves a chip and finish into the mini goal. The objective is to score as quickly as possible, with the first team to score gaining the added bonus point.

Coaching Notes:

• Speed vs. Precision – The challenge is to balance speed with accuracy. While players want to move quickly to score, they must be careful to execute the chip and finish with precision to earn additional points. Encourage players to focus on quick decision-making while ensuring they maintain control of the ball.

• Sprint Technique – Players should focus on explosive starts and quick direction changes when sprinting to the poles. This will help improve their acceleration and agility, which are essential for fast transitions in games.

• Chip and Finish – In the final phase, players should be encouraged to chip the ball into the mini goal with a calm, controlled technique. Remind players that while speed is important, the finish should still be clean and effective.

• Communication – Encourage players to communicate with each other, as this practice involves a lot of movement and quick decision-making. Clear instructions and feedback will help players stay on track during the drill.

Progression 1: Add a Defender

Introduce a defender who will try to prevent the player from scoring by blocking the chip or challenging the finish. The defender can be positioned in front of the goal to add a bit more challenge to the attacking player’s finish.

Focus:

Improves finishing under pressure and the ability to handle defensive pressure while still executing the goal-scoring task.

Progression 2: Add Multiple Rounds

Increase the intensity of the warm-up by introducing multiple rounds where players must perform the sprint and finish exercise more than once, switching between the two numbered poles. This will improve their endurance and ability to perform high-intensity tasks repeatedly.

Focus:

Helps players to maintain focus and energy throughout a warm-up or game situation.