Step 1/3Runner 1 leads; X1 chases outside the cones
Orange = offense · blue = defense · solid line = cut · dashed = pass · zig-zag = dribble · T = screen · dotted arc = shot
Warm-up drill
Circle Tag
A 12-second chase around a circle. The runner changes pace and direction while the tagger tries to close the gap.
- Time
- 5 min
- Players
- 2+
- Ages
- All ages
- Level
- Beginner
Equipment: Cones to mark a circle, timer; 1 ball per player for the progression
How to run the drill
- 1Setup: mark a circle about 4 metres across. In pairs, choose a runner and a tagger. Both start outside the circle, about 2 metres apart. Use separate circles for extra pairs.
- 2Start: on the coach's call, the tagger has 12 seconds to make a light touch on the runner's shoulder or upper back. Both players must stay outside the circle; neither can cut through it.
- 3Rules: either player may change direction. Stay within one arm's length of the circle edge so the runner cannot simply sprint away across the court. Avoid grabbing or pushing.
- 4Scoring and reset: a tag earns the tagger 1 point and ends the round. If time expires, the runner earns 1 point. Walk back to the starting gap after each round.
- 5Rotation: swap runner and tagger every round. Play six rounds, rest briefly, then change partners.
- 6Progression: both players dribble, keeping the same chase rules. A lost dribble ends the round and gives the other player the point. Adjust the starting gap or circle size to balance the contest.
Coaching points
- Look at the runner's hips
- Slow down before changing direction
- Keep a clear lane around each circle
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