Although technique is important this is a drill that tests more of an athlete’s attitude and commitment to the ball than anything else. This objective of this drill is for athletes to maintain a never say die attitude and never give up on a ball.
Set up
# of players : 2-8 players
Ideal : 2 players
Equipment : 5+balls
Average duration : 10-15 minutes
Description
- With a stack of balls the individual running the drill throws balls just of the defenders reach so that they need to dive to keep the ball off the ground.
- With a minimum number of balls you may need other athletes chasing down stray balls and feeding the thrower.
- The defenders job is to stop a certain number of balls (somewhere from 4-6 balls is normal) from hitting the ground.
- Out of the 6 balls there should be at least 1 that the defender cannot get.
- A great way to end this drill is for the defender to play out an easy ball after the required number of digs.
Evaluation :
# of reps (ex. 4-6)
Variations
- Rotate between players
Progression
- Have the defender chase down 3 balls then play out one then once again chase down 3 balls and play out one.
- Increase the level of difficulty of each dig until the objective is just to touch the ball before it hits the sand.
Key points
- Encourage the defender to stay low throughout the whole drill.
- Discuss and practice correct technique prior to the drill in order to prevent injury while diving.
- Remind the defender to get up off the ground as soon as possible after diving for the ball.
- Remind athletes to NEVER give up on a ball – the wind will often bring balls that the mind thinks are to far away back within arms reach.
- Let athletes know that two arms are better than one but if going with one arm try to use the arm closest to the ball.