Balance offload

Offloading the ball out of contact is one of the most powerful attacking weapons in the game. But an offload pass is often made when the ball carrier is off balance. This session gets the players passing in unusual circumstances and builds to a standard offload game situation. It also considers the role of the support player.

What to think about

Passing with one or two hands?

One arm is often used in the contact situation to fend off a defender. Yet the supporting player may not be on the best side to take the pass. Therefore players should not only practise with one handed passes, but also with the “inside” hand. This means flicking the ball out of the back of the hand.

What footwork should the passer use?

The ball carrier will need to move the defender to prevent a full on tackle being made. They should not compromise their forward movement though. This momentum will take them beyond the tackler, allowing more chance for a cleaner offload.

set-up

1. Pass by turning your shoulders toward the receiver and looking at the target.
2. Pass upwards as you fall and follow through to the target with your hand or hands.
3. Supporter: hold your run until you are sure of the pass.

What you get your players to do

Stand one player with a ball at the side of the box and in the middle of the 5 metre strip. Two players run toward the strip. The first receiver hops as he reaches the strip, receives the pass and passes before hopping out on the other side of the strip. Then change the hopping leg, sides and length of the pass, then have the players use one and two hands to pass. Finally let the first receiver see if they can leap through the strip, receiving and passing in mid air.