Shot-Blocking Partners
In pairs with foam balls, the defender learns to step up to the shooter and block with arms high, then teams up with the goalie to split the goal. Students work on defensive stance, reaction time, and cooperative defense.
How to play
- Pairs with one foam ball each. Cones mark a shooting line at 9 meters and a defending line at 7 meters.
- Demo the block in 2 minutes: knees bent, weight forward, arms straight and together above the head, hands open, eyes on the ball.
- Phase 1 (4 minutes): the attacker throws softly over the defender, who steps up and blocks. Switch every five throws.
- Phase 2 (4 minutes): the attacker either shoots high or fakes and shoots to the side; the defender only reaches when the ball is really released.
- Phase 3 (5 minutes): at each goal, a defender and a goalie face a line of shooters; the defender takes the shooting-arm side, the goalie the other. Rotate every three shots.
Rules
- In phases 1 and 2, foam balls only at half speed.
- Block with the arms and never touch the shooter.
- Safety: shoot over the defender's head, never at the face.
Variations
Easier
The attacker throws from a standstill and the defender reaches without jumping.
Standard
Blocking against fakes plus defender-goalie teamwork in the final phase.
Harder
In phase 3, use a soft team handball and allow jump shots.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student blocks seated or from a wheelchair against slower throws.
- Autism: demo each phase first and keep the same partner all period.
- Fitness level: a less confident student blocks holding a pool noodle.
Learning goals
- Use a safe, effective blocking stance.
- React to the real shot without biting on the fake.
- Split the goal with the goalie.
Equipment for a class of 25
- foam balls: 13
- cones: 10
- goals: 2
Teacher tip
Some students close their eyes or turn away; foam balls build confidence, so do not rush to switch. Keep repeating that the blocker takes the shooting-arm side.
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