Set up:
Pitch marked out in the same shape as a normal rounders pitch with cones 6m apart. Split players into two small teams (no more than 5v5). Use a size 4/5 size sponge/plastic ball
Rules:
The bowler throws the ball underarm with a bounce from the bowling box to the batting box. The batter can hit the ball with any part of their body.
Once the batter has hit the ball they then run around the 4 bases. They can stop at any base.
The fielders then field the ball into the bowler to stop the batter from running on. Gradually more rules are introduced once the principles of play have been learned.
Coaching Points:
Coach through questioning. The aim here is to allow the children to learn the rules of rounders without the stresses of considering technique.
Progression:
Add scoring zones to get the batters to make decisions, add in the rule that if they are caught out then the whole team is out - this will encourage them to keep the ball on the floor and encourage the fielders to go for the catches. After all, catches win matches!
"It is not only useful for staff who are experienced but a valuable tool for those subject staff who have to take teams."
The variety of sessions across sports - sometimes we steal session ideas from one sport and use them with another.
As we enter the business end of the competition, we take a look at the remaining eight teams and the key talking points surrounding each side.