Football/Soccer Session (Beginner): Pirate Game

Pirate Game (10 mins)

Pirate Game

Organization: 15-20x15-20 grid. 1 small goal and pinnies in the middle of the field. Every player with a ball. 

Game Rules: In a grid with a small goal in the middle. Two players carry a vest (1 and 2). They are the Pirates. All other have a ball. Pirates attempt to steal ball and put it in the goal. If you ball gets put in the goal, you become a Pirate by picking up a vest stored behind the goal. You then join the hunt for balls.

If a player kicks a ball out of bounds, the other team gets the ball on the re-start.

Last player(s) to keep their ball is the winner. Then play again. Winners become Pirates to start the next game.

Modification/Challenge: To decrease difficulty, consider playing without a ball to start (get tagged and you become pirate). Add a "safe" cone that players can stop at temporarily (no more than 4 seconds) and no more than 2 players per "safe" cone. 

Coaching Points: Pirates can work together to win the ball and score. Players who lose their ball should fight to win it back before the Pirates can score.

Players should keep head up to spot Pirates and dribble to free space. If cornered they should shield to protect the ball.

This game can also be played in a penalty area with a big goal and goalkeeper.