Two exits, one defender · Read the pressure
A notices D’s movement and uses a route or change of pace that creates separation.
A starts with a ball on the near end. D starts in the middle. Two far-end gates offer a left/right choice.
A/B/C = attackers · D = defender · S = server · N = neutral · white dot = ball. Leave clear space between stations. Schematic, not to scale.- Players per station
- 2–3; use the planner for a whole group
- Space
- 10 × 12 yards per station; leave 3 yards between stations
- Equipment
- 2 balls per station (one spare) · 8 flat cones per station · Optional bibs; use agreed team/role names if unavailable
Set up, then show one repetition
A starts with a ball on the near end. D starts in the middle. Two far-end gates offer a left/right choice. Mark four corners and two two-yard gates on the far end using four more cones. Keep spare balls outside the near sideline. A third player alternates in after each attempt: attacker becomes defender, defender rests outside, resting player attacks.
- Start
- A’s first touch releases D. Begin with D blocking a route without tackling, then allow a clean ball-winning challenge.
- Score
- A scores by dribbling through either gate. D scores by winning the ball and crossing the near end under control.
- Reset & rotate
- After a score or ball out, switch roles and restart from the near end. Use a spare ball so retrieving does not delay the next pair.
U9 starting lens: Choose pressure by readiness, then watch: A notices D’s movement and uses a route or change of pace that creates separation.
Rounds that fit 10 minutes
- 1:00 · Show and try
A approaches under control, changes direction when D commits, and accelerates through the open gate. Show a simple change of speed as well as a feint.
- 1:53 · Play 1
Try the entry version and watch the main behavior.
- 0:20 · Rotate, drink, reset
Rotate roles as described. Take water when needed; shorten play instead of rushing the break.
- 1:53 · Play 2
In the first round, the opponent visibly closes one route without tackling. In later rounds allow a clean ball-winning challenge only if the first touch and reset are working. Widen the gates and let D close just one route at walking pace. Progress only when useful: Bring D closer or allow D to recover after being passed. Keep both scoring options.
- 0:20 · Rotate, drink, reset
Rotate roles as described. Take water when needed; shorten play instead of rushing the break.
- 1:52 · Play 3
In the first round, the opponent visibly closes one route without tackling. In later rounds allow a clean ball-winning challenge only if the first touch and reset are working. Widen the gates and let D close just one route at walking pace. Progress only when useful: Bring D closer or allow D to recover after being passed. Keep both scoring options.
- 0:20 · Rotate, drink, reset
Rotate roles as described. Take water when needed; shorten play instead of rushing the break.
- 1:52 · Play 4
In the first round, the opponent visibly closes one route without tackling. In later rounds allow a clean ball-winning challenge only if the first touch and reset are working. Widen the gates and let D close just one route at walking pace. Progress only when useful: Bring D closer or allow D to recover after being passed. Keep both scoring options.
- 0:30 · Notice and move on
Invite one example or gesture, collect balls safely, and move to the next activity.
If it breaks down
- A stops far from D every time: shorten the starting distance and demonstrate a controlled approach before adding speed.
- Players cannot explain the objective: show one repetition with their roles, then remove one extra condition.
Make it easier
Widen the gates and let D close just one route at walking pace.
Add a stretch
Bring D closer or allow D to recover after being passed. Keep both scoring options.
Safety & involvement
Check the surface and clearance around the grid. No pushing, holding, slide tackles, or challenges from behind. Begin with no-contact route blocking; allow clean ball-winning pressure only when players can control the approach. Stop play before retrieving a ball from another station.
Every player has a named role. Rotate through all roles, keep explanations between rounds, and offer a quieter demonstration or gesture response. Water and individual breaks are available whenever needed.
Learn the activity: demonstration, decision pictures & observation
Show this first
A approaches under control, changes direction when D commits, and accelerates through the open gate. Show a simple change of speed as well as a feint.
See one repetition before you explain it.
The movement, pressure, and coaching cue change together. Pause on any picture or select a step below.
Why this problem
A starts with a ball on the near end. D starts in the middle. Two far-end gates offer a left/right choice. The available space and target create a reason to act. Judge the choice in context: A trick is not required when the route is already open.
Ask or invite a demonstration
When did the space open?
Look in the next game
A notices D’s movement and uses a route or change of pace that creates separation. Watch a few opportunities for two players; record the situation and choice rather than a head-turn or touch total.
Optional home game
Set two safe household-marker exits. Dribble toward an imaginary defender, choose a route, then take two controlled quicker touches. A partner can point to the blocked exit.
Use the same problem differently
Repeat a useful version; change one constraint when players are ready.