Switch-the-Field Possession Game
A 6v6 possession game without goals where teams score by moving the ball from one wide zone to the zone on the opposite side. Students practice switching the field, using width, and moving the ball quickly to find the weak side of the defense.
How to play
- Set up two 35 x 30 yd fields. Use cones to mark a 6-yard strip along each sideline: the left zone and the right zone. Four teams of 6 in pinnies; one student keeps score.
- Play 6v6 with no goals. To start a scoring chance, a team must complete a pass into one of the wide zones.
- From there, if a teammate receives in the opposite zone within four passes, the team earns 1 point.
- If the switch is made with a single long ground pass from zone to zone, it is worth 2 points.
- Play three 5-minute periods with 1 minute of rest, switching opponents; take 2 final minutes to discuss when switching the field pays off.
Rules
- Only one attacker and one defender may be in each wide zone at a time.
- Long passes stay on the ground or at waist height, never above head height.
- No charging or tackling from behind; win the ball on your feet.
Variations
Easier
Play 6v4 with no pass limit to reach the other zone.
Standard
6v6 with a point for a switch within four passes and 2 points for a one-pass switch.
Harder
Two-touch limit, and the defender may enter the zone as soon as the pass arrives.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student stays in one wide zone, where they cannot be tackled.
- Shy students: the teacher pairs them with a go-to teammate they can always pass to.
- Lower fitness: the student plays in a wide zone, which involves less running.
Learning goals
- Switch the point of attack to target the weak side.
- Use the full width of the field with support on both sidelines.
- Move the ball quickly and accurately with ground passes.
Equipment for a class of 25
- soccer balls: 4
- cones: 24
- pinnies (four colors): 24
Teacher tip
At first everyone chases the ball and the far zone sits empty, so freeze play briefly and point out the open space. Use a different cone color for each zone so they are easy to see.
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