Lead Pass to a Moving Partner
In pairs, one student runs in a straight line and the other throws the ball ahead of them so they can catch it without slowing down. Students practice reading the ball's path, judging a partner's speed, and the lead pass used in many team sports.
How to play
- Mark 15 m (50 ft) lanes with cones, one per pair. The passer stands on the side, 5 m (16 ft) from the lane, with a foam ball; the receiver stands at the starting cone (2 min).
- The receiver jogs down the lane. The passer makes a two-hand overhead throw to where the receiver is going to be, not where they are now. Swap roles after each attempt (4 min).
- Scoring: 2 points if the receiver catches without slowing or changing direction, 1 point if they have to slow down, and 0 if the ball drops.
- Increase speed: the receiver moves from a jog to a half-speed run. The passer must lead the ball more (4 min).
- Add cuts: the receiver may change direction at the middle cone, and the passer must wait to see the cut before throwing (4 min).
- Final game (4 min): groups of four, two passers and two receivers, race to earn 10 points with lead passes.
Rules
- Always throw ahead of the receiver, never at their head.
- Receivers run watching the ball over their shoulder but stay in their lane.
- Lanes are at least 3 m (10 ft) apart so receivers never cross.
- Use only foam balls so a bad pass can't hurt anyone.
Variations
Easier
The receiver power walks and the passer throws from 3 m with one bounce allowed.
Standard
The receiver jogs or runs at half speed, with an air pass from 5 m.
Harder
The passer also moves along a parallel lane, like on a fast break.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student acts as a stationary passer or moves in a wheelchair while partners roll the ball ahead of them.
- Blind or low vision: use a ball with a bell and have the passer call "ball!" before throwing.
- Lower skill: the student receives at walking speed with a larger ball.
Learning goals
- Judge where a moving partner will be in order to pass to them.
- Catch a ball without breaking stride.
- Understand the lead pass as a game tactic.
Equipment for a class of 25
- foam balls: 13
- cones: 16
Teacher tip
The most common mistake is throwing at the receiver's body and forcing them to stop; ask passers to aim one step ahead. Keep all passers on the same side so you can manage safety.
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