Stay outside12 seconds1X1
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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 5Rotation: swap runner and tagger every round. Play six rounds, rest briefly, then change partners.
  6. 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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