Two hands are better than one

WHY USE IT

Two hands on the ball mean players are able to pass in any direction immediately, which is important to maintain continuity.

SET UP

Four cones and a ball per pair of players.

HOW TO PLAY

Put a pair of players on the first of a line of cones. The front player has a ball. When you shout “Go!”, the front player has to weave in and out of the cones aiming to be first to a line beyond the end of the cones. The other player follows behind but doesn’t have to go through the cones. At any stage, shout “Pass!”. The ball carrier has to immediately pass to their team-mate, who then races to the line instead. You can develop the practice by starting more advanced players a little further back. This exercise aims to persuade players of the benefits of carrying the ball in two hands. You could say nothing and let them work it out for themselves - be patient.

Coaching points

• Put two hands in the middle of the ball.
• Carry the ball off the chest.
• Supporting player: Stay in a position to be able to run onto the pass.