Number Call Dribble Warm-Up
Each student dribbles a ball around the court and responds to numbers called by the teacher, each linked to a type of dribble or an action. It builds ball control without looking down, reaction time and a warm-up with varied travel.
How to play
- Give each student a ball and spread them out across the court (1 min).
- Explain the numbers: 1, dribble with the right hand; 2, with the left; 3, low crouching dribble; 4, dribble sitting on the floor (1 min).
- Students dribble while walking and switch dribbles every time a number is called (2 min).
- Add 5: find a partner and swap balls with a bounce pass, and 6: clap twice and get the ball back under control (2 min).
- Increase travel speed from walking to jogging while numbers are called (2 min).
- Finish: the teacher calls two numbers in a row and students earn a point if they do both without losing the ball (1 min).
Rules
- Dribble with your fingertips, not by slapping the ball with your palm.
- If the ball gets away, go get it when the path is clear, without diving for it.
- Look ahead, not at the ball, to avoid collisions.
- On a long whistle, everyone holds the ball with both hands and listens.
Variations
Easier
Use only numbers 1 to 3 and dribble in place.
Standard
Use numbers 1 to 6 while jogging.
Harder
Play opposites: when 1 is called, do the action for 2, and vice versa.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: dribble from the wheelchair at one side; replace number 4 with a two-hand dribble.
- Hearing impairment: show the numbers with your fingers as well as calling them.
- Skill level: students who struggle use a larger, softer ball.
Learning goals
- Control the dribble with both hands at different heights.
- React quickly to verbal cues.
- Dribble with eyes up to read the space.
Equipment for a class of 25
- ball: 25
Teacher tip
Write the numbers on a whiteboard or poster at the start so no one gets lost. Slightly underinflated balls are easier for beginners to control.
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