Carousel Lead Passes
In pairs, one student passes from the center of a cone circle while their partner jogs around it, and the passer must lead the pass so it arrives on the run. It is a gradual warm-up that builds lead passing and catching on the move.
How to play
- Form pairs with one ball and mark a cone circle about 5 yards in radius for each pair; one student stands in the center and the other on the circle.
- Activation (90 seconds): the runner jogs outside the cones with no ball while the center player turns to track them with their eyes.
- The center player passes to the runner, aiming one yard ahead of them; the runner catches without stopping and passes back on the move.
- Each set lasts 45 seconds, then partners switch roles; do 2 sets per student (about 3 minutes).
- Second block (2 minutes): the runner changes direction whenever they want and the passer has to adjust.
- Finish (2 minutes): increase to a medium running pace and the pair counts the passes caught without slowing down.
Rules
- Passes are always chest high and ahead of the runner, never behind them.
- The runner jogs outside the cones and does not enter the circle.
- Circles for different pairs are at least 3 yards apart.
- If the ball drops, the runner walks to get it and continues.
Variations
Easier
3-yard circle with the runner walking briskly.
Standard
5-yard circle with the runner jogging and chest passes.
Harder
6-yard circle, free direction changes, and one-handed or bounce passes.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: take the center as passer or travel the circle in a wheelchair at their own pace.
- Blind or low-vision students: the runner claps or says "here" so the passer can locate them, and a ball with a bell is used.
- Lower fitness: 30-second sets and an easy jog at all times.
Learning goals
- Lead the pass into the space where a partner will arrive.
- Catch and return the ball without slowing down.
- Gradually increase effort during the warm-up.
Equipment for a class of 25
- balls: 13
- cones: 78
Teacher tip
The typical mistake is passing to where the runner is instead of where they'll be: have the passer watch the partner's feet to judge it. Set up the circles in a row so every pair can see you.
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