Ballinteer St Johns GAA Club
Juvenile Football Coaching Book
Volume 1
Nora Stapleton
Games Promotional Officer
2| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
Skills
Games
Page
Introduction
5
Skill 1 – Throwing & Chest Catch
6
(1.1)
(1.2)
(1.3)
(1.4)
(1.5)
(1.6)
(1.7)
(1.8)
(1.9)
(1.10)
(1.11)
(1.12)
(1.13)
(1.14)
(1.15)
(1.16)
(1.17)
Individual Throwing &Catching
Partner Work
Team Passing
Piggy in the Middle (3 v1)
4v1
Handball Bob
Catching Game
Bomb
G.A.A
Cops &Robbers
Dodgeball
Over the River/No Mans Land
Goals, Goals, Goals
Possession & Score
Fill the Empty Corner
Astride Ball
Captains Ball
6
6
7
7
7
8
8
9
9
9
10
10
11
11
12
12
12
(2.1)
(2.2)
(2.3)
(2.4)
(2.5)
(2.6)
(2.7)
(2.8)
(2.9)
(2.10)
(2.11)
(2.12)
(2.13)
(2.14)
(2.15)
(2.16)
(2.17)
Stationary Bouncing
Bounce on the Move 1
Bounce on the Move 2
Slalom Bounce
Space Invaders
Foxes &Chickens
Grid Swap
Ball & Bounce Tag
Hot Cross Buns
Bounce & Turn
Bulldog
Chase you Partner
Out of Control
Snatch the Bacon (p22, 3.6)
Captains Ball (p12, 1.17)
Minefield (p27, 4.4)
Pass the Guards (p42, 7.5)
13
13
14
14
15
15
16
16
17
18
18
19
19
19
19
19
19
(3.1)
(3.2)
(3.3)
(3.4)
(3.5)
Pick Up & Set Down
Swap Shop
Musical Footballs
Pick Up a Rolling Ball
Gate Ball
20
20
21
21
22
Skill 2 – Bouncing
Skill 3 a – Pick up (Basic)
3| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
Skills
Games
Page
(3.6)
(3.7)
(3.8)
(3.9)
Snatch the Bacon
Leg Goals
Piggy in the Middle (3 v 1)
Rob the Nest
22
23
23
24
(3.10)
(3.11)
(3.12)
(3.13)
(3.14)
Lift & Drop
Tussle & Lift
Scatter& Lift
Astride Ball (see p12, 1.16)
Grid Swap
25
25
25
25
25
(4.1)
(4.2)
(4.3)
(4.4)
(4.5)
(4.6)
(4.7)
(4.8)
(4.9)
Take the Dog for a Walk
Dribbling Through Cones
Bridges & Boats
Minefield
Rob the Nest
Cops & Robbers
Dribble & Kick
Out of Control (p 19)
Snatch the Bacon (p 22)
26
26
26
27
27
28
28
28
28
(4.10)
(4.11)
(4.12)
(4.13)
(4.14)
(4.15)
(4.16)
(4.17)
(4.18)
Partner Work
Goal to Goal
Goal to Goal in 2’s
Goals, Goals, Goals
Hit the Cones
Off the Cone
Skittle Knock Down
Bounce & Kick
Rounders (p34, 5.8)
29
29
29
30
30
31
31
31
31
(5.1)
(5.2)
(5.3)
(5.4)
(5.5)
(5.6)
(5.7)
(5.8)
(5.9)
(5.10)
Partner Kick
Empty the Circle
Goal to Goal in 2’s
Clear the Zone
Cic Fada
Knock the Cap Off
Hula Hoop Score
Rounders
No Man’s Land
Hit the Cones (p30, 4.14)
32
32
33
33
33
34
34
34
35
35
Skill 3 b – Crouch Lift
Skill 4 – Kicking Part 1
Dribble
Ground Kicking
Skill 5 – Kicking Part 2 – Punt Kick
4| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
Skills
Games
Page
(5.11)
(5.12)
(5.13)
Goals, goals, goals (p30, 4.13)
Snatch the Bacon (p22, 3.6)
Chase the Hound (p42, 7.6)
35
35
(6.1)
(6.2)
(6.3)
(6.4)
(6.5)
(6.6)
(6.7)
(6.8)
(6.9)
(6.10)
(6.11)
(6.12)
(6.13)
(6.14)
(6.15)
(6.16)
(6.17)
(6.18)
(6.19)
Handpass Spray
Handpass to Partner
Pressure Pass
Keep Ball
Possession & Score
Around the Square Game
Dodgeball
Touch Down
Skittle Ball
Cops and Robbers (p 9, 1.10)
Captains Ball (p12, 1.17)
Bomb (p9, 1.8)
Fill the empty corner (p12, 1.15)
Over the River (p10, 1.12)
Handball Bob(p8, 1.6)
Goals, Goals, Goals (p11, 1.13)
Catching Game (p8, 1.7)
Team Passing (p7, 1.3)
G.A.A (p9, 1.9)
36
36
37
37
37
38
38
38
39
39
39
39
39
39
39
39
39
39
39
Skill 6 – Handpass/Fist Passing
Skill 7 – Near Hand Tackle
7.1 Partner 1 v 1
7.2 Tackle Alley
7.3 Grid Tackle
7.4 Last Man Standing
7.5 Pass the Guards
7.6 Chase the Hound
7.7 Cops and Robbers (p 34, game No. 6.7)
7.8 Foxes and Chickens (p11, game No. 2.6)
7.9 Piggy in the Middle (p17, game No. 3.6)
7.10 Captains Ball (p12, 1.17)
7.11 Possession and Score (p37, 6.5)
7.12 Bulldog (p18, 2.11)
40
41
41
41
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
5| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
Introduction
Welcome to Ballinteer St Johns new GAA coaching resource. This coaching book has been designed
to assist coaches/mentors/parents when coaching children. Use this resource in conjunction with
the Ballinteer St Johns Player Pathway (download from www.ballinteerstjohns.com). The drills and
games included in this book range from basic to intermediate to advanced levels. Not all games suit
all players. It is up to the mentor to change different aspects of the activities so that they tailor it to
their own players.
Many resources have been used to put this coaching book together. The following links and coaching
resources were used.
-
www.gaa.ie (http://gaa.ie/coaching-and-games-development/resources-and-publications/)
www.munster.gaa.ie (http://munster.gaa.ie/coaching-2/resources/coaching-planner/)
www.ballinteerstjohns.com
Ulster Council GAA ‘Gaelic Start & Fundamentals Programme’ Coaching Folder
McDonald’s Lift & Strike Programme
‘Give Us A Game’, Gerard O’Connor
A lot of the games and activites in this book can be used for multiple skills. For example if we have a
throwing game then this can also be used for handpassing and maybe tackling. Rather then
repeating the games in this document I have just directed you back to where the game first
appeared. You can then tailor it to suit the skill you want to coach.
If you have any questions or other material which you think we could use then please get in touch
with me.
Regards,
Nora Stapleton
Games Promotional Officer, Ballinteer St Johns GAA Club
6| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
SKILL 1
Throwing & Chest Catch
Chest/Body Catch
Key Points
1. Move to receive the ball
2. Extend arms out in front of the chest
3. Keep elbows and hands close together
4. Relax chest on impact to cushion the ball
Head – Hands – Feet
STEP - Vary the activity
Vary Space
Vary Task
Vary Equipment Vary Players
1.1
Individual Throw and Catch
-
1.2
Use any size balls. Players throw the ball up and catch using the body catch.
How many throws and catches can they do without dropping the ball?
How many catches can they get in 30secs?
How high can they throw the ball and catch?
Can they throw, clap their hands and catch?
Partner Work
Basic Drill
Players start by bouncing the ball for their partner to catch
Each Player in turn throws the ball for their partner to catch
Start near then move apart after a set number of throws.
7| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
1.3
Team Passing
-
1.4
Piggy in the Middle ( 2 v 1)
-
1.5
Split the players in to groups of 3.
Mark out an area 7m x 7m.
The players must stay in the area and pass the ball to one another. Encourage the players to
move after they pass the ball. (Throwing is ok).
How many successful passes and catches can they do?
Can they beat the other team?
How many can their team get in 1min?
Two players must throw and catch the ball without the third person getting it off them.
If the player in the middle gets the ball then he/she change with the player who failed to
catch the ball.
If the player in the middle doesn’t win the ball then change every minute.
ALWAYS ENCOURAGE THE FREE PLAYER TO MOVE TO MAKE THE PASS EASIER.
This can also be played with 3 v 1.
4V1
Fun Game
Mark out the area as shown. Use cones so that players stay wide.
Encourage players to keep the space.
Middle player tries to intercept the ball while the outer players throw the ball
to each other
How many passes can the outside players get to each other?
As they improve players must then handpass the ball to each other.
8| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
1.6
Handball Bob
Intermediate Drill
Player throws the ball for opposite player to run on and catch at the
halfway marker.
This can also be done with the coach throwing the ball for the players
to run out and try and catch.
1.7 Catching Game
-
Mark out a square 10m x 10m. All the players are inside moving in all directions without
banging in to one another.
3 coaches/parents are outside the square with bean bags. They call the players names and
throw the bean bag to them to catch. The players then throw the bean bag back to the
coach and look for a new coach to throw to them.
Variation: Use tennis balls/sliotars and then footballs.
Award 1 pt if the player catches the bean bag/ball.
The player must catch the ball, bounce/throw up and catch, then pass it to a different coach.
Coaches
9| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
1.8
Bomb
-
1.9
Player’s form a circle as shown.
The ball is passed around the circle for each player to catch, (make sure the distance
between each player is sufficient).
If the ball hits the ground then you start a count down from 10..9..8..7..
Whoever has the ball at ‘zero’ losses a life. Alternatively you could say whoever has the ball
at ‘zero’ wins. Whatever suits your particular group.
G.A.A
-
1.10
This game is similar to D.O.N.K.E.Y except it’s a little bit shorter.
Players pass the ball to each other. If they drop it they get a letter e.g. G.
You keep going until someone has all 3 letters e.g. GAA
Cops and Robbers
-
Split the group in to teams. This game is best done if it’s 2 v 2
-
The Cops must try and disposes them. Whoever has the ball after 1min wins. Swop rolls.
In the pic above for example, the blues (Cops) against the yellows (Robbers)
The Robbers have the ball. They must keep the ball by throwing and catching to one
another.
10| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
1.11
-
Dodgeball
Split the group in to two teams.
Mark out two areas 7m x 7m.
Equipment: Use either light footballs or the small coloured plastic balls (one or the other,
not both at the same time)
Teams have to throw the balls across the gap to try and strike the other team players on the
legs. If a player is struck they must do 5 star jumps before they can enter the game again.
Team 1
1.12
Gap (2m)
Team 2
Over the River (/NoMansLand)
Fun Game
Can be played with 2 v 2, 3 v 3 or whatever numbers you want to use.
Teams try to throw the ball over the river into the other team’s area.
For beginners: ball is allowed to bounce but then must be caught. If the team do not catch the ball
then the other team score a point. If a player catches the ball then they score a point.
For Intermediate: No bounce allowed. Players must catch the ball first time if they want to score a
point.
11| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
1.13
-
-
1.14
Goals, Goals, Goals
Split the group in to pairs. Mark out an area as shown above. Use poles or cones to set out
your goals.
Each pair must score goals by passing the ball through the goal and catching it at the other
side. (Throwing is allowed for beginners. This game is to encourage catching and spatial
awareness).
If a player drops the ball then no goal is awarded. How many can they get in 1min?
Possession and Score
Fun Game
One coach per team. Gather your team in and explain the rules to them.
Players try and keep possession by throwing and catching. They score by throwing/kicking the
ball into the goal.
Only let the players take 4 steps then they must pass to a team mate.
You could also award points for a certain number of successful throws/catches in a row.
E.g. 1 pt for 3 passes, 2 pts for a goal.
12| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
1.15
-
Fill the Empty Corner
In this activity we are developing the ability of the player on the ball, not only who to pass
to, but more importantly where to move after passing.
Set up area using 4 cones, 5m x 5m.
3 people in each square
Players pass the ball and move to the empty corner.
5 passes (throws and progress to handpassing) and catches in a row = 1 pt.
Variation: How many passes can they get in 30secs? Can they bounce before passing? Bounce/solo
to the empty corner then pass. Increase or decrease the size of the area. Add a defender in the
middle = 3 v 1, Add two defenders = 3 v 2
Move
Pass
1.16
-
Astride Ball
Split the group in to two teams, line up facing each other 2m apart.
Players try to roll or throw the ball (low) to try and get it past the other team’s line.
Award 1 pt for every ball that they get past the other team.
2m
1.17
-
Captains Ball
Split the group in to two teams (max 4 per team).
Each team has a player on an end line holding a hula hoop.
The team must try and pass the ball to one another 3 times then try and score by throwing
the ball through the hula hoop.
Variation: Instead of holding a hula hoop the player must catch the ball for their team to score.
13| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
SKILL 2
Bouncing
3. 1 Key Points & Demo
1. Release the ball into one hand
2. Push the ball into the ground
3. Extend both arms to the ball as it returns
4. Hold the ball securely and bring it into the
body
Head - Hands – Feet
STEP - Vary the activity
Vary Space
Vary Task
Vary Equipment Vary Players
2.1
Stationary Bouncing
- Ball each or ball between two. Players take turns bouncing the ball while standing still 5 times.
- How many times can they bounce the ball and catch in 30secs?
2.2
Bounce on the Move (1)
Basic Drill
Player moves four steps, Bounces and passes on to the next player
Explain why they are taking 4 steps
14| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
2.3
Bounce on the Move (2)
-
Split the group in to pairs. One partner has the ball
They must move around the square and bounce the ball every 4 steps.
When they hear the signal (Coach shouts “Bananas”) they find their partner and give them
the ball.
Variations:
Walk – Jog – Run around the square
Follow the leader: the person with the ball must follow their partner in the square. This will
encourage them to get their head up in-between bounces.
2.4
Slalom Bounce
Intermediate Drill
Players bounce the ball while running around each cone
Let them start with two handed bounces then try moving to bounce with 1 hand catch with 2.
If you mark out two lines then you could have a bit of a race.
15| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
2.5
Space Invaders
Players line up in Pairs or 3’s. One ball per group. On the signal the first person moves out
and bounces the ball in the hoops. When they hear the whistle they run back and give the ball
to the next person.
Variations: Call out a number…e.g. 4 Players must bounce the ball in 4 different hoops as
quickly as possible.
Call out a colour sequence. Now the player must bounce the ball in the order of colours you
called out. E.g. yellow hoop, then blue, then red, then green.
Players bounce the ball in as many hoops as possible in one minute
2.6
Foxes and Chickens
-
Set up an area about 15m x 15m.
The Chickens are in the middle with a ball each. Their partner (Fox) is on the outside.
On the signal the Foxes enter the square and try to get the ball off their partner.
If a Fox wins the ball they hold it up in the air to show the coach an d scores a point.
If a Chicken keeps their ball then they score a point.
Let the game run for about 20secs then stop to see who has the ball.
16| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
-
Rotate the roles.
Remember that this is a bouncing game so the Chicken must bounce the ball every 4 steps
while trying to avoid the Fox.
Variation: To make it easier, only have 2 Foxes and everyone else is a Chicken. This way the Chicken
won’t be under as much pressure.
2.7
Grid Swap
Fun Game
Set up as shown.
The Yellow team are timed to see how long it takes them to move the balls from the other
square back to their home team square. Only one person is allowed to go at a time. They must
bounce the ball as they run back with it.
Can the Blue team beat their time?
If you don’t have enough footballs you could give them 1min and see how many times they can
move the ball from one square to the next.
2.8
Ball & Bounce Tag
- Using a confined area such as below, break group up into 2 teams of 5, place two teams
into box.
- Each member of one team is given a ball.
- Team A, each bouncing as they run, chase and try to tag the players of the other team by
touching them with the ball.
- Players must leave the game and sit down by coach if they are tagged. Encourage
players to take four steps between each bounce. Each team tries to tag as many players
as they can in one minute. Rotate teams.
17| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
Variation:
If players are tagged they do 5 high jumps/5 star jumps and they can continue.
2.9
Hot Cross Buns
-
In pairs, the players stand around the 3 hoops. Ball between two.
The aim is for the players to bounce the ball in to the hoops to their partner
Try to avoid other balls being bounced. They have to time their pass and judge the
distance.
Award different points for the different colours. Eg. Big blue hoop = 1 pt, small green = 3
pts.
Which pair can get the most consecutive number of successful passes?
Variations: Make them stand further away to make it harder.
Introduce a defender to try and stop the balls from bouncing in the hoops.
18| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
2.10
Bounce and Turn
Intermediate Drill
Players perform the Bounce while rounding each cone randomly
Variation: How quickly can they bounce and go around all the cones?
2.11
-
Bulldog
All the players line up at the start line with a ball.
The player in the middle shouts out “Bulldog, bulldog , I call ------- over”.
Whoever is called must start bouncing the ball out. If he or she calls “Open Gates” then
everyone gets to move.
The idea is to get to the other side of the grid without losing your ball. If you lost your ball you
must also go in the middle and be the tackler.
Once everyone is over the game starts again and players try to get back to the start line.
Players keep moving over and back until there is only one person left with a ball.
For young players you could have 3 winners at the end.
19| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
2. 12
-
2.13
-
Chase you Partner
Players are divided into pairs. Player with the ball stands still while his/her partner runs in
the grid (7m x 7m)
One the whistle the ball carrier chases their partner trying to tag them with the ball.
Players must bounce the ball (try keep it to 4 steps) when running with the ball.
Out of Control
Mark out a grid about 15m x 15m. Every player is bouncing a ball inside the grid.
The coach calls out the directions. Green = go, Yellow = slow down, Red = stop.
Variations: Coach calls out “Crash” which means all the players fall to the ground. Coach call’s out
“Runaway Speeder” and then runs into the grid to try and tackle the players and kick their ball away.
You could let one of the players make the calls.
See also:
2.14
Snatch the Bacon (p22)
2.15
Ball (p…./ players must bounce the ball if they want to move with it. Or players must run 4
steps bounce then pass).
2.16
Minefield (p…/ players must pass through the minefield while bouncing the football)
2.17 Pass the Guards (p../ the player who are trying to pass the guards must bounce the ball
every 4 steps. Show them why they shouldn’t bounce the ball too close to the guards).
20| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
SKILL 3
Pick up (BASIC)
Year 1 & 2 in the Nursery we would only focus on picking the ball up at speed, first time, without
falling over.
By the end of Year 3 all boys should have an understanding of the proper Crouch Lift. Girls always
use a normal pick up.
3.1
Pick up & Set Down
-
3.2
Mark out a grid about 10m x 10m
Scatter the cones in the area. Place the footballs beside the cones.
Players move around the area. They must pick up a ball run for 4 steps(roughly) and put it
down beside a different cone.
Eventually they should be able to do this without the cones, i.e. pick up a ball and place it in
a free space.
Swap Shop
-
Use a large grid and place hoops randomly about the free spaces.
Place half the balls in the free spaces and the other half in the hoops.
Divide the group into two.
21| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
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Aim – One team move around the area lifting the footballs from the hoops and placing them
in a free space inside the grid.
The other team lifts the balls from the ground and put them back in the shops (hoops).
Whoever has the most number of balls wins.
Variations: Players must bounce the ball before they put them down. The coach or another player
tries to stop the players form lifting the balls. Make the teams uneven. Use more hoops, use more
footballs.
3.3
Musical Footballs
-
Mark out a square with all the footballs in the middle. Always have one or two less footballs
then players.
The players jog around the outside of the square. On the whistle they race in to the square
and try to pick up a free football. Whoever gets the ball scores 1pt.
Variations: Instead of running in to the square they must crawl on their hands and feet.
When they pick up the ball they must run and put it in the goal/den. First person to get their ball in
the goal/den wins.
Person who does not get a ball is out. After each round keeping taking away one ball until eventually
you have 2 players running for one ball to see who the overall winner is. If you use this variation
make sure the players who are out are kept busy with an activity, e.g. they have to try and do 10
solos while they wait.
3.4
Pick up a Rolling Ball
-
In Pairs, start 3m apart. Players roll the ball on the ground for their partner to pick up.
Players should try and get behind the ball as it’s moving along the ground.
Look for players whose hands are too far apart. The ball will simply roll on past them.
Variations: If you roll the ball and your partner misses it then you score a point.
22| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
3.5
Gate Ball
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-
3.6
Split the group in to pairs. Mark out an area as shown above. Use poles or cones to set out
your gates. (TIP: If you use all different coloured cones for the gates this will confuse the
players).
Players must roll through the gates to their partner who lifts the ball.
Award 1 pt for each successful roll and lift. How many points can they get? Who can get 10
the fastest?
Snatch the Bacon
-
Split the group in to two teams. Line up facing each other about 5m apart. Each player is
given a number.
Place one football in the middle between the two groups.
The coach calls out a number, e.g. “1”, the number 1’s from both teams have to run out and
try and pick up the ball. Whoever gets the ball first wins.
Variation: This game can be used for nearly all of our skills.
-
When they player picks up the ball they must handpass/throw to the coach to score a pt.
When they pick the ball they must run and try and kick for a score.
The coach can call out 2 numbers. Now it becomes a 2 v 2.
Encourage the players to tackle if they don’t pick up the ball first.
You could add in two goals. Now the greens score one side and the oranges score into the
other goal.
23| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
3.7
Leg Goals
Player rolls ball between partner’s legs and runs on to Lift it as it moves away.
Variations: Player rolls the ball under any bridge they want. How many can they get in 1min?
Encourage the players to roll/bowl the ball with one hand. What other ways can we make the
bridges? Introduce defenders who try to prevent the balls being rolled under the legs or lifted.
3.8
Piggy in the Middle (3 v 1)
Roll Pass
-
Mark out a triangle. 3 on the outside 1 in the middle.
The outside players try to keep the ball by rolling and lifting it to one another.
How many passes can they get in 1min?
Change the middle person regularly.
24| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
3.9
Rob the Nest
-
Small plastic balls are good for this game. Footballs can also be used.
Place lots of balls in the middle as shown above (at least 3 per person playing).
Split the group up in to 3 or 4 teams.
On the whistle the first person from each team sprints in to the middle lifts a ball and brings
it home to their base. Once back the next person goes. Keep going until there are no balls
left in the middle. The team with the most balls wins.
Crouch Lift
Key Points
1. Move to the ball. Last step should be a long step
2. Place hands in front of the ball
3. Drag the back foot forward and scoop the ball
forward into the cupped hands.
4. Pull the ball into the chest.
Head - Hands – Feet
STEP - Vary the activity
Vary Space
Vary Task
Vary Equipment Vary Players
TIP: All the games and drills from the Pick up above can be used to practice the Crouch Lift and
vice versa. You can also try out the following.
25| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
3.9
Lift and Drop
Player jogs forward to Crouch Lift the ball, places
the ball at the next marker and continues on
Variation: Make the distance between the middle
cones wider, now they must bounce before they
place the ball at the cone.
3.11
3.10
Tussle and Lift
Coach rolls the ball forward for each pair to
chase and contest
Variation: add in a goal, whoever wins the ball
can shoot for a score.
Scatter and Lift
Fun Game
Attackers try to Crouch lift as many balls in 30sec while the defenders try to oppose them.
Variations: Make it easier by reducing the number of defenders or add in more footballs.
The following games can also be used to practice the lifting technique but make sure the emphasis
is on the lifting.
-
Astride Ball (see p 12)
Grid Swap (see p 16)
26| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
SKILL 4
Kicking Part 1 (Dribble and Ground Kicking)
Dribble
NB Always use both feet
4.1
-
Take the Dog for a Walk
Pairs or groups of 3.
Players must dribble the ball out to the cone and back again. Using left and right foot, keeping
the ball near to the feet.
4.2 Dribbling through cones
-
-
4.3
Cones are placed 2m apart. Three children at each line of cones. Children must dribble the
ball between the cones and back to the start using both feet.
Emphasise keeping the ball under control by tapping gently with both feet as you dribble..
Use insides and outsides of both feet to dribble.
Encourage the children not to let the ball hit any of the cones.
If they are taking very long then only have the players dribble out. They can kick the ball
home instead.
Bridges and Boats
-
In Pairs, number 1 &2
Number 2’s find a bit of space in the area (10m x 10m) and stand with their legs open
(Bridge).
Number 1’s (Boats) have to dribble around the area and pass their ball under as many
bridges as they can.
Variation: What other way can the players make a bridge? How many can they go under in 1min?
27| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
4.4
Minefield
-
Place lots of cones in an area as shown above
The players dribble in and around the cones for 1min. If their ball touches a cone they lose a
life.
Variations: The players start at one side of the grid. They must race to the other side without
touching a mine. If their ball touches a mine they have to go back to the start. First person across
wins.
4.5
Rob the Nest
-
Small plastic balls are good for this game.
Place lots of balls in the middle as shown above. (at least 3 per person playing)
Split the group up in to 3 or 4 teams.
On the whistle the first person from each team sprints in to the middle and dribbles a ball
home to their base. Once back the next person goes. Keep going until there are no balls left
in the middle. The team with the most balls wins.
28| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
4.6
Cops and Robbers
-
Set out a square approximately 10m x 10m. Each player has a ball and dribbles around the
square with their ball avoiding the other players.
The coach (cop) walks around the square and tackles the players (robbers) dispossessing
them. The player must work to get their ball back off the coach.
The more involved the coach is in this game, the more the players enjoy it.
Variation: Let one of the players be the cop.
4.7
-
Dribble & Kick
2-3 lines of cones with players lined up. Each group has a ball or two, coach can stand in goal or
just have a very narrow goal.
The first player dribbles the ball in and out between the cones, until the last one and then kicks at
goal. Retrieve the ball and go to the back of the line
Emphasise keeping the ball under control by having it close to the body and using gentle toe taps.
Encourage the children not to let the ball hit any of the cones.
Make sure they change feet each time and kick using right and left foot.
Goal
The following games can be used but put the emphasis on dribbling.
4.8 Out of Control (p 19)
4.9 Snatch the Bacon (p 22)
29| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
Ground Kicking
NB Always practice both feet
Key points:
5
6
7
Standing foot should always be planted next to the football as the player strikes.
Players should be encouraged to point the toe and use the hard part of the foot (laces) to strike
the ball.
As they progress you should them how to strike the ball with the inside of their foot. I.e. turn the
foot sideways so that the toe is pointing away from the body.
4.10
8
9
Partner Work
Players stand 5m apart and try to kick the ball on the ground to one another.
Can the players point their foot to the ground and use the laced part of their boot to strike the
ball (hard part of the foot).
4.11
Goal to Goal
10 In pairs. Players must now try and score on their partner and act as goalie.
11 One point for each goal scored. One point for each save.
12 You don’t have to ask the players how many points they got but ask the Q ‘Hands up who scored
a goal….hands up who saved the goal? This way everyone is usually a winner.
Variations: Make the goals bigger or smaller, move them further apart.
4.12
Goal to Goal in 2’s
30| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
4.13
-
4.14
Same as above except you work with your partner.
This encourages team work from an early age.
Anyone can save the ball but take turns kicking.
Increase or decrease the distance between the two goals. Make the goals wider or smaller.
Goals, Goals, Goals
Split the group in to pairs. Mark out an area as shown above. Use poles or cones to set out
your goals.
Each pair must score goals by kicking the ball through the goal to their partner.
This is to encourage kickpassing so if the kick is too hard and not accurate don’t allow the
point. Explain the type of pass that’s needed.
Hit the Cones
Split the group in to two teams. 2 OR 3 balls needed.
Players Kick the ball on the ground to hit the cones in the middle
If a player wobbles a cone they score a point. But if they knock the cone over they get 5pts!
If a player hits a cone they must fix it otherwise they don’t get their points.
31| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
4.15
-
4.16
-
4.17
-
Off the Cone
This is to help their ground kicking with a hard foot (off the top of the laces).
In pairs, ball between two.
Players place the ball on a cone (small plastic cones) and then kick it to their partner.
Can their partner catch the ball?
Players get a point for every successful kick through the gate.
Skittle Knock Down
Set up the cones in a skittle formation as shown
Using the ground kick, see how many you can knock down in one go.
Can the next person beat you?
If you knock down the skittles you have to fix them up again.
1pt for each skittle knocked down.
Bounce and Kick
A step up from kicking on the ground.
The players throw the ball up, let it bounce then try and kick it.
This increases the co-ordination involved.
Remind players to step towards the ball and strike using the hard part of the foot (laces)
Use a lot of the same activities as above but with a bounce instead.
See Also:
4.18
Rounders (p 34, kicker strikes the ball from the ground/cone instead of from their hands).
32| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
SKILL 5
Kicking 2 - Punt Kick
Key Points
1. Release ball into the hand at kicking side
2. Step forward with non-kicking foot
3. Kick ball with instep
4. Toes pointed, follow through
Head - Hands – Feet
STEP - Vary the activity
Vary Space
Vary Task
Vary Equipment Vary Players
5.1
Partner Kick
Basic Drill
5.2
Empty the Circle
Fun Game
Change the distances to suit the ability of your players
Players in Pairs. Mark out various distances.
Players to punt kick to partner over each distance.
Use both feet
Players in the circle keep the circle clear by Punt
Kicking any balls out of it.
Players on the outside are trying to get the balls and
replace them in the circle as quick as they can.
33| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
5.3
Goal to Goal in 2’s
-
Same as above except you work with your partner.
This encourages team work from an early age.
Anyone can save the ball but take turns kicking.
Increase or decrease the distance between the two goals. Make the goals wider or smaller.
Variation: 1 v 1
5.4
Clear the Zone
Team 1
-
5.5
River
Mark out 3 zones with the teams in either end zone. End zones (10m x 10m), middle/river
(about 2m wide)
2 balls per team to start.
Players must punt kick the ball into the opposite zone over the river.
Any balls kicked into their zone must be played back to keep the zone clear.
On the whistle everyone stops and the balls are counted. The team with the fewest balls in
their zone is the winner.
Cic Fada
-
Team 2
How far can the players kick ball?
In Pairs, can they kick it further then their partner?
34| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
5.6
Knock the Cap Off
-
5.7
Target game to practice the punt kick. Set up two teams. In the middle place poles with
cones on top of them.
2 balls per team. Players must try and Punt kick the ball to knock the cap off the pole.
Award 1pt for hitting the pole, 5 pts for knocking the cap off.
Increase or decrease the distance between the teams and poles.
Use the opposite foot.
Hula Hoop score.
-
5.8
The coach holds up a hula hoop. The players take turns to see who can punt kick the ball to
get it through the hula hoop.
Increase/decrease the distance between players and hoop.
Rounders
3m
-
Split the group in to two teams. Strikers and Fielders.
The distance between the cones vary depending on the age and ability of the kids.
Players start at the red cone.
They strike the ball on the ground as far as they can and run around the cones before the
other team get the ball back to the red cone.
If they get to the yellow cone before the ball gets back then they get 1pt. If they get to the
pink cone they get 2pts, white cone 3pts and the whole way around to red is 4pts.
35| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
5.9
5. 10
No Mans Land
No Mans Land
Can be played with 2 v 2, 3 v 3 or whatever numbers you want to use.
Use 2 or 3 balls only
Teams punt kick the ball over the river into the other team’s area.
For beginners: ball is allowed to bounce but then must be caught. If the team do not catch the ball then the
other team score a point. If a player catches the ball then they score a point.
For Intermediate: No bounce allowed. Players must catch the ball first time if they want to score a point.
Variations: Increase the distance between each team. I.e. the No Man’s Land in the middle is 5m wide
instead of 3m.
The following games can also be used but players Punt Kick the ball.
- Hit the Cones (p30, 4.14)
- Goals, goals, goals (p30, 4.13)
- Snatch the Bacon (p22, 3.6)
- Chase the Hound (p42, 7.6)
36| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
SKILL 6
Hand passing/Fist Passing
Key Points
1. Support the ball in the palm of one hand. One
leg out in front. Same side as the hand holding the
ball.
2. Extend the striking hand back
3. Strike through the middle of the ball
4. Follow through in the direction of the pass
Head - Hands – Feet
STEP - Vary the activity
Vary Space
Vary Task
Vary Equipment Vary Players
6.1
Handpass Spray
-
Arrange the players in a semi circle facing the coach.
The coach handpasses the ball to each player who then handpasses back.
Rotate between using the left and right hand to pass.
Variations: The coach passes randomly to the players so no one knows who’s getting the ball next.
6.2
Hand Pass to Partner
Players Hand Pass to their partner in turn. Use both the right and left hand.
Start near (1m) then move further apart.
What pair can get 10 passes in a row? How many can they get in 30secs?
37| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
6.3
Pressure Pass
6.4
Intermediate Drill
Fun Game
Middle player in turn takes and returns a pass
from outer players.
3 with their right hand and 3 with their left hand.
Who can do it without dropping the ball?
6.5
Keep Ball
Players retain possession by Hand Passing to each
other.
How many passes can they get?
Are players moving after they pass the ball?
Possession and Score
One coach per team. Gather your team in and explain the rules to them.
Players try and keep possession by handpassing and catching. They score by
handpassing/kicking the ball into the goal.
Only let the players take 4 steps then they must pass to a team mate.
You could also award points for a certain number of successful passes/catches in a row.
E.g. 1 pt for 3 passes, 2 pts for a goal.
38| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
6.6
Around the Square Game
One teams Hand Passes clockwise around the square and the other goes anti-clockwise
Variations: Both teams pass the same direction around the square. Can you catch the
football ahead of you?
Which team can pass their football around the square the fastest?
6.7
Dodge Ball
Fun Game
4 or 5 players. One player ‘on’. Other players
handpass ball to touch player ‘on’ on legs or
back. When a player is in possession he/she
cannot move so passes to another player if too
far away from player ‘on’
Variation: Players are allowed to move but
catch the runners by handpassing the ball only.
6.8
Touch Down
Modified Game - Advanced
3 or 4 players per side.
Play the ball from one’s own end zone to
opposition end zone using handpasses.
The ball must be carried into the end zone to gain
a score.
39| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
6.9
Skittle Ball
-
Mark out your area and two teams (small sided e.g. 3 or 4 aside)
The teams have to pass the ball and try to score by knocking over the other teams skittle.
skittle
Variations: Add in move skittles.
Make uneven teams e.g. 3 v 2 or 4 v 3.
Make the area bigger or smaller.
See also the games below but instead of throwing the players must handpass:
6.10
6.11
6.12
6.13
6.14
6.15
6.16
6.17
6.18
6.19
Cops and Robbers (p…)
Captains Ball
Bomb
Fill the empty corner
Over the River
Handball Bob
Goals, Goals, Goals
Catching Game
Team Passing
G.A.A
40| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
SKILL 7
Near Hand Tackle
Key Points
1. Move alongside opponent. Eyes on the ball.
2. Step in with your near leg
3. Flick the ball away with near hand when the
ball is free.
4. Recover ball to win possession
Head - Hands – Feet
STEP - Vary the activity
Vary Space
7.1
Vary Task
Partner 1 on 1
Basic Drill
Players in pairs. Player in possession walks while holding the ball.
Their partner sneaks up behind and tries to execute the Near Hand Tackle
Coach should explain to the player in front that they allow their partner to tackle them.
Variations:
-
The player with the ball jogs
The player with the ball must bounce (solo for older) every 4 steps.
The player with the ball tries to get to the other side without being tackled.
41| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
7.2
Tackle Alley
-
-
7.3
Mark out an area as shown above. Place hula hoops inside the tackle alley.
Nominate 4 tacklers to stand in the hula hoops.
The attacker must try and get through the tackle alley without the tacklers getting their ball.
The tacklers are not allowed to step out of the hoops. They must use the Near Hand Tackle to
try and strike/flick the ball off the attacker.
The attacker scores a point if they can make it to the green cone without losing their ball.
Grid Tackle
Fun Game
Players in possession attempt to
run/bounce/solo through the grid. Defending
players attempt to tackle.
If the defender flicks the ball away award 1 pt.
7.4
Last Man Standing
Game Play Routine
Players in possession attempt to solo through and
score. Defending players attempt to tackle
Beginners: let them run and kick.
Intermediate: must bounce every 4 steps
42| B a l l i n t e e r S t J o h n s G A A – F o o t b a l l S k i l l s a n d G a m e s
7.5
Pass the Guards
In Pairs or 3’s. Players line up on one side of the grid.
Place some guards in the middle of the grid. They aren’t allowed out of their area. The first
person in each line goes together. They must try and get their ball pass the guards to the other
side and back again without the guards tackling them.
Award one point if the ball carriers do not lose their ball. Award the guards one point for every
player that they tackle using the Near Hand Tackle.
7.6
Chase the Hound
2m
Tackler
-
10m
Hound
10m
GOAL
Set up as shown above. Distances may vary.
The Hound has a ball. On the whistle they run/bounce/solo to try and get through the goal
before the Tackler catches them.
The Tackler tries to use the Near Hand Tackler to disposes the Hound.
Variation: The Hound is allowed to kick the ball when they get to the first yellow cone.
Below are other games that work which are already included in this document. Make sure the
emphasis is on the tackle.
7.7 Cops and Robbers (p 34, game No. 6.7)
7.8 Foxes and Chickens (p11, game No. 2.6)
7.9 Piggy in the Middle (p17, game No. 3.6)
7.10 Captains Ball (p12, 1.17)
7.11 Possession and Score (p37, 6.5)
7.12 Bulldog (p18, 2.11)
7.13 Snatch the Bacon (p22, 3.6)