Short pass or long pass?

There is no such thing as a regulation pass but different distances depending on the defence being faced. Mix up distances in exercises to create realistic situations.

Warm up time: 5-7
Session time: 8-10
Development time: 8-10
Game time: 15-20
Warm down time: 5-7

What to think about

This session is about the outcome. A player may not have the most technically correct method of shifting the ball a short distance, but if it is effective, do not change it. However, even if the player is successful, you can suggest better ways to hold or pass the ball. For instance, he could hold the ball in two hands, carry the ball in the middle of his body, or follow his hands through to the target after passing. Encourage players not to slow down too much before they pass, otherwise they may not engage the defender. However, they should not sprint towards the defender because they may lose their balance and struggle to make even a short pass.

set-up

1. Attack the defender by moving him to one side.
2. Listen to your support player and push a short or long pass to them.
3. Follow your pass by pushing your hands through to the target.

What you get your players to do

Put three attackers and two defenders with ruck pads in a training area (see picture 1). Get the attackers to move forward, with the ruck pad holder going forward towards the ball carrier only. The ball carrier uses a short pass to his support player, who goes through one of two narrow gates. Once through, repeat this through the wider gate (see picture 2).