Develop an awareness of where the ball is even when it is out of direct sight and reinforces the correct lunge position that athletes should adopt when playing a short ball.
Set up
# of players : 1-10 players
Ideal : 1 player
Equipment : 1+
Average duration : 5-10 minutes
Description
- Athlete throws the ball up in the air (low at first) and proceeds to catch it behind their back in lunge position. The athlete should focus on keeping their back straight when in lunge position.
Evaluation : # of reps (ex. 10)
Variations
- varying directions on the court
Progression
- Toss higher
- Bring the ball around to the front of the body (while remaining in lunge position) toss the ball a few feet in the air before passing the ball up and catching it again behind the back.
- After catching the ball they bring it around to the front of the body, give it a low throw then forearm pass it up for their partner to catch behind their back.
- For an advanced variation two pairs can attempt to accomplish this drill at the same time
Key points
- Athletes should focus on keeping their back straight when catching the ball.
- Athletes should be aware of the wind and how it will effect the balls trajectory.
- Athletes should be thinking about the ball and where it is heading even if they cannot see it.