Off-Ball Scouts: Count, Record and Coach

While two teams play 4v4, classmates act as scouts, tallying each player's off-ball runs and giving one tip at the time-out. Students learn to recognize a good cut and to give and take feedback respectfully.

How to play

1. Explain what counts as a cut (moving into open space to offer a passing lane) and the tally sheet: cuts, catches after a cut, and times someone stood still (4 min).
2. First 4v4 game on a 20 × 15 m field with two scouts per team taking notes (6 min).
3. Time-out: each scout gives their team one stat and one specific tip (3 min).
4. Second game with the same scouts to see if the tip works (6 min).
5. Rotate: scouts play and other students take notes (6 min).
6. Share-out: which cut worked best, and in which sports would you use it? (5 min).

Rules

• Feedback starts with something done well.
• Talk about actions, never about people or their bodies.
• Scouts stay off the field, two meters from the line.
• No contact: intercept passes only.

Variations

Adaptations

• Students with limited mobility or an injury: lead scout who runs their team's time-out.
• Students with reading or writing difficulties: record with colored marks or counters instead of writing.
• Deaf or hard-of-hearing students: hold the time-out in a tight circle, facing the speaker with the sheet visible.

Learning goals

• Identify effective cuts during play.
• Use simple data to improve team play.
• Give and receive feedback respectfully.

Equipment for a class of 25

• tally sheets: 8
• pencils: 8
• foam balls: 2
• pinnies: 16
• cones: 8

Teacher tip

Prepare sheets with names before class and use clipboards. Typical mistake: scouts only watch the ball; have each one follow two specific players.

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