1 vs. 1 Channel Duel: Dodge and Score

In narrow channels, an attacker with the ball tries to reach the line without the defender pulling a tag. Students apply fakes, sidesteps and changes of pace against a live opponent.

How to play

1. Set up eight channels, 5 m wide and 12 m long, with four students each (3 min).
2. Duel against a walking defender: the attacker tries a sidestep (4 min).
3. Duel with both jogging; switch roles every attempt (5 min).
4. The defender starts from the side instead of head-on, so the attacker must read the angle (4 min).
5. Mini-tournament: each pair counts tries in five attempts, then rotate opponents (4 min).

Rules

• Only pull tags; no fending off with a hand or covering your tag.
• If the attacker steps out of the channel, the attempt ends.
• Each pair waits behind its cone until the channel is clear.
• No diving to pull a tag.

Variations

Adaptations

• Wheelchair users: wider channel with the tag hanging from the backrest; the opponent moves at an agreed pace.
• Students with low vision: channel marked with colored tape and a defender who claps.
• Students nervous about one-on-ones: start as a walking defender and choose their partner.

Learning goals

• Use a fake or sidestep against a defender.
• Defend with a good angle and no contact.
• Accept the outcome of a duel with good sportsmanship.

Equipment for a class of 25

• tag belts: 30
• rugby balls: 8
• cones: 32

Teacher tip

Pair students of similar speed and rotate often. Common mistake: running straight at the defender; ask the attacker to commit them and change feet two meters out.

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