One-handed passing

Develop better handling skills by forcing players to use the ball with one hand in and around the contact area. This session picks out some one-handed contact situations for players to look at solutions. A tougher session for players with smaller hands.

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

Don’t be too tough on handling errors, looking for a lower success ratio than you might expect under normal circumstances. Challenge better players by making them use the least sticky balls. An over-pumped smooth ball frustrates good ball handlers. Passing is not just about the hands. The player needs to use good footwork to position himself to release the ball in the most effective manner – especially by turning his shoulder.

set-up

1. Keep the ball secure in contact and only pass when you are sure you can release the ball to support.
2. Use the hand and the inside of your arm to cradle the ball and then pass it towards the supporting player.

What you get your players to do

Put a ball carrier in the middle of a 5m x 3m box, with his arm outstretched and hand on the chest of a defender. Put a support player outside the box. When you shout “GO” the defender attempts to pull the attacking player to ground, while the attacker aims to release the ball to his supporting player (see picture 1).