Offload options

We know a simple offloading game can devastate defences. Players need the skills and the confidence to know exactly how and when to offload. This session builds the technique in a game-related way so the passer and receiver can understand their options.

Warm up time: 5-7
Session time: 8-10
Development time: 10-15
Game time: 10-15
Warm down time: 5-8

What to think about

Avoid players getting into a fixed mindset about how to offload the ball. They should always aim to beat a defender first and then offload, whether with a twohanded or one-handed pass. Younger players often don’t fall or tackle properly in these exercises. The half-hearted attempt from both players immediately negates the benefits. Find soft ground to fall on if possible. Also work for short, intense periods, asking for a high standard rather than lots of attempts with dwindling concentration and success.

set-up

1. Aim to get beyond the defender before offloading. If you cannot do this, turn towards your team mate.
2. Hold your run in support and don’t commit to left or right until the ball carrier makes his move.

What you get your players to do

Put two defenders on their knees about 5m apart (see top picture ). Put a ball carrier in front of the first defender and a support player behind the ball carrier. Get the attacker to run at the defender who comes off his knees to tackle the ball carrier at waist height or below. The ball carrier aims to offload for the next player who runs at the next defender and the tackle style is repeated. The tackled player aims to get off the ground and in position to take an offload. Do three times and swap roles.