C Course: Combination Play
Tom Turner
Combination play can be defined in very narrow terms, such as wall passing or
overlapping; more broadly, as in combinations that are initiated with vertical or horizontal
passes; or, very generally, as in any movement or combination involving two or more
players that maintains possession or achieves penetration. The organization of the
practice space and numbers will be dependent on the definition used. For the purpose of
this outline, the broader definition is applied. The practice numbers are assumed to be
ten (5v5).
Activity in unrestricted space
Provide half as many balls (5) as players (10) and circulate the balls within the team.
Various combinations should be presented by the players or coach.
Insist on longer passes to provide time and space.
Insist on changes of pace.
Bring out technical details as required.
On the coach’s signal, players contest possession for 10-15 second “rounds.”
Activity in restricted space
Numbers: 3v3+4 (bumper game)
Area: ~25x25 (square) / ~20x30 (rectangle)
Scoring: Combine in three’s using a support player (bumper) as the second player
Conditions: Bumpers have one touch back into the game; otherwise, must play to
another support player
Players can use the bumpers to keep possession (two-player connections)
Winning: Play to five or six and rotate bumpers into the game.
Game to one-goal with counter
Numbers: 4 attackers versus 3 defenders and a GK. Two support/target players. This
becomes 5v4 with the coach as the support player/target.
Area: ~35x30 @ 4v3 and ~35x44 @ 5v4
Scoring: Attackers play to goal. Defenders play to targets, with 5 passes to targets equal
to a goal.
Conditions: Attackers can be limited to three touch
Winning: First team to two goals wins the round.
Game to two goals
Numbers: 5v5 / 5v5+1 with coach
Area: ~45x35
Scoring: Goals worth 3 points. Any “realistic” combination worth 1 point
Conditions: Can be limited (3) touch; otherwise, free play.
Winning: First team to ~twelve wins the round.
National Instructional Staff Symposium • May 15-18, 2003