Reaction speed: race to a loose ball and 1v1
Two players wait with their backs to the coach; on the signal they turn and sprint to the ball the coach has played in. First to the ball attacks the mini goal, the other defends. Reaction, acceleration and a duel in one action.
Step 1Señal
1 / 3
El entrenador lanza el balón y da la señal.
Objective
Improve reaction time and acceleration over the first metres, linking the physical action with a real duel for the ball.
Organisation
20x15 m rectangle with a mini goal at each end. Pairs of players in the middle side by side, backs to the coach, who stands 5 m away with balls. Waiting lines on the sides.
Development
- 1The two players wait in the position the coach calls: standing, seated, lying down or skipping on the spot.
- 2The coach plays the ball low or bouncing into a zone and gives the signal (voice, whistle or clap).
- 3The players turn, sprint, and the first to touch the ball attacks the opposite mini goal while the other defends.
- 4The duel lasts eight seconds; a goal is one point, a steal plus goal by the defender is two.
- 5Sets of six starts per pair, changing the waiting position and the direction of the ball each time.
Coaching points4
- Turn the head first to find the ball before moving the feet.
- Short first steps with the trunk leaning forward.
- Second to the ball does not give up: brake, get side-on and defend the 1v1.
- Shield the ball with the body when first and decide quickly.
Common mistakes3
- Going before the signal and guessing the direction.
- Turning the whole body and losing balance.
- The defender lunging from behind and fouling.
Variations3
- Visual signal: the coach raises an arm instead of calling.
- Three players and two balls: the one without a ball defends.
- The coach throws the ball at mid height to control in the air.
Progressions2
- Increase the distance to the ball to 10 m.
- A second duel immediately with another ball played after the first.
Regressions2
- Standing start facing the ball, ball stationary.
- No duel: just get to the ball first and dribble to the mini goal.
Tips
- Pair by speed so duels are even.
- Full recovery between starts: it is a speed drill, not endurance.