Reinforce the correct technique and body positioning when playing the ball outside the body.
Set up
# of players : 2 – 12 players
Ideal : 3 players
Equipment : 1 ball per team of 3
Average duration : 10-15 minutes
Description
- In this drill the athlete practices passing the ball with one arm.
- The athlete or coach throws the ball to the side of the athlete who shuffles across and plays the ball back to the thrower initially with the arm closest to the ball.
- The ball should not travel flat but go up and down to the thrower about 8-10 feet in the air.
- The athlete or coach then throws the ball to the same spot but this time the athlete shuffles across and plays the ball with the arm on the opposite side from the ball.
Passers goal is to pass the ball as close to straight up and down as possible.
Evaluation : # of good passes (8-10 reps)
Variations
- switch throwers and passers
Progression
- Coach or athlete throws the ball at a distance that necessitates the athlete falls onto the sand after contacting the ball.
- Coach serves the ball instead of throwing it.
Key points
- Although forearm passing the ball with either backspin or topspin is not recommended in normal play there are situations where this is beneficial and necessary
- Although forearm passing the ball outside of the body is not recommended, there are situations where it cannot be avoided and therefore training this movement pattern is vital to becoming a complete player.
- It is always recommend, that if possible, an athlete move to play the ball within the centre of their body.