Various games in the circle. For U10s. 3 teams of 3. Can be adapted for different numbers or age groups.
1. 3v3 Winner Stays On.
Coach throws in a ball. 2 teams compete to beat the keeper. Other team waits outside the D. Game ends when a goal is scored, or after [1]min. Winning team stays on.
Variations: waiting team can play a 1-2 with any team that passes to them.
2. Possession Game.
3v3 in circle. Third team waits outside the circle. First team wins if they keep possession for [10] passes. As soon as the second team wins possession, they attack the goal + the third team enters circle to help them, while first team tries to hit ball out of the circle.
3. Pass 'N Move Game (Netball Hockey)
Same format as (1), but with the following rules: 1) No moving on the ball 2) No tackling 2) All players 2m apart.
4. Short Corner Game.
1 team defends, other 2 teams attack. Start by injecting from short corner mark. Other players positioned as per penalty corner rules. Attackers win by scoring in goal. Defenders win by hitting ball out of the circle.
Safety rules: No hits or slap-shots allowed, only push-shots.
Give players time beforehand to work out a strategy (a "routine" for attackers, roles for defenders), like in a real penalty corner. Emphasis should be on using routines to outwit the defence, rather than blasting the ball through them.
Variations: 1) [1]min timer.
5. Gladiator
Split whole group into 2 evenly matched teams. Give each team member a number, ideally so that each player has the same number as a player of similar ability on the opposing team. Call a number(s), i.e. "1s and 2s" and throw a ball into the D. The corresponding player(s) on each team compete to score within [1]min.
Variation: the first player/team to the ball attacks, the opposing player/team try to hit the ball out.
6. 6v3 Game.
2 teams attack goal, with the other team defending. Attackers get a point for scoring, defenders get a point for carrying outside the D. Switch defending teams after 3 pts scored.
Variations:
To increase intensity
Scoring system
Bonus points for:
Use of scoring zones:
in more ways than one
in more ways than one
Video analysis is no longer a luxury reserved for international squads. With a phone, a tripod and a free editing tool, any club coach can build a weekly review habit that transforms how their team learns.
With mandatory masks now in place, the defensive corner has changed. Outrunners are committing harder, postmen are positioning differently, and the goalkeeper has new sightlines. Here's how to rebuild your PC defence for 2026.
The Pro League's most dangerous teams now win the ball back within five seconds of losing it. Here's how to teach counter-pressing at any level, with triggers, drills and a session plan.