On Friday in class, we looked at how similar concepts exist between games from the same category. For example, the offensive strategy of keeping possession crosses the spectrum and is applicable to all games in the category (handball, soccer, lacrosse, rugby, etc).
The first game/activity we played was a 4 on 3 possession game that would work for multiple sports. Try to include as many games or activities in your practice sessions. Activities should replicate game conditions, but are modified to highlight the concept or strategy your are trying to have your athletes understand. In our first game, the advantage was given to the offensive team, as they had one more player than the defenders. You will need to modify games/activities so that they are age and skill level appropriate. Thanks to Matthew for creating the illustration:
We played the 4 on 4 possession game with both a handball and then a soccer ball. We also advanced the game to increase the difficulty and to highlight another offensive strategy (penetrate the depth & space behind our defenders). To do this, we awarded a bonus point if the offensive team was able to successfully split (play a ball between the defensive pair).
The last game we played focused on the offensive strategy of using the width of the field. By spreading out on the field, we draw defenders away from the center, and open it up for our attack. In this game, the ball had to be played wide (to an isolated player in a channel), before a goal could be scored. See the diagram below:
