Working The Driver (High & Wide)

DESCRIPTION

• In 3s, an attacker, defender and a feeder (where possible in positional/court relevant setting)
• The defending player is looking to utilise all their defending tools to stay close man-on marking and pushing player wide.
• The attacking player works away from the ball (about 2 or 3 steps) then drives forward for a pass x 2. The third and final pass should be a breaking ball looking to hit relevant target (i.e. circle edge, cross the transverse line)
• The defender is angled to encourage that movement as high as possible towards the feeder, enough to contest, but not overrunning – should be able to set up for hands over mark. Once ball returned to the feeder, they should step up onto body to shut down the movement, keeping the attacker wide.
• On the final ball, the defender should be looking to keep the attacking player wide (for example, near sideline, deep into pocket) and go to intercept the high ball, OR just keep them high (for example, keep them off circle edge) and look to tip or intercept

Progression:

• As above but now on the final ball, the feeder can step in to take that last pass.
• The defender can switch onto that player to either prevent the drive and force high or contest on the lifted long ball further down court

COACHING POINTS

• Looking to keep feet under the body, arms within sphere of body
• Angled pressure to encourage/ dictate movement of the attacking player.
• Standing upright, avoiding lean/contact onto the attacking player.
• Contesting but not over-running; ready for 3 foot mark
• Attacking the opportunity!