This foundation phase practice takes place in a 20 by 20-yard area and is a fun activity to help develop players dribbling and decision-making skills.
We have four safety islands in each corner of the playing area where the players begin, with two Pirates beginning centrally.
The objective is for the outside players to successfully dribble into the islands without being caught by the pirates. If the outside players are tagged, they leave their ball and join the Pirates team.
Once all the players have been caught, we re-start the practice.
Key Coaching Points
Quick and good decision-making when to move between the islands. Constant scanning and awareness of Pirates positioning.
Progressions
Pirates must win possession of the ball instead of just tagging teammates on their shoulder. This adds an extra challenge for the Pirates.
Player Questions
Where are the spaces to run into when the Pirates are distracted by other players?