2-on-1 Through Three Defensive Zones
Pairs of attackers cross the court through three zones, each with a defender who cannot leave it, and finish with a shot on goal. Students learn to draw the defender and pass at the right moment when they have a numbers advantage.
How to play
- Split each half of the court widthwise into three zones about 7 yards deep with cones. Each zone has one defender in a pinnie; a goal with a goalie waits at the end.
- Pairs start from the end line. In every zone it is 2-on-1: the ball carrier attacks the defender to draw them in, then passes to the open partner just before contact.
- If they lose the ball or it leaves the zone, the pair jogs back along the sideline. If they clear all three zones, they shoot: a goal after three zones is worth 3 points.
- The next pair starts when the previous one reaches the second zone. Defenders swap with an attacking pair every 3 minutes.
- Last 4 minutes: play 3-on-2 in each zone, with two defenders and attacking groups of three.
Rules
- Defenders may not leave their zone.
- No dribbling: passes only, three steps max.
- Safety: defenders play the ball with their hands and never push the ball carrier.
Variations
Easier
Defenders may only intercept passes, not touch the ball carrier.
Standard
2-on-1 through three zones with a live defender and a final shot.
Harder
The last-zone defender can drop back and contest the shot.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student defends the middle zone, which is narrower.
- Shyness: start with a set partner and as the first-zone defender, the least demanding spot.
- Fitness level: mix ability in pairs; the stronger player only receives after the partner draws the defender.
Learning goals
- Draw the defender before passing.
- Decide between passing and driving based on the defender.
- Use the numbers advantage with a partner.
Equipment for a class of 25
- team handballs: 6
- cones: 16
- pinnies: 6
- goals: 2
Teacher tip
Many students pass too early, before the defender commits; cue them to attack the defender's shoulder. Let them make mistakes, then ask why the pass failed.
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