Structure Your Practice Sessions for Success

In a two-hour high school practice, I split the session into two distinct halves to maximize player development and engagement.

First Hour: Skill Development

The first hour is divided into three 20-minute segments:

1. Warm-Up (First 20 minutes): We start with dynamic stretching, followed by light stick work routines that players are familiar with to quickly get into the flow.
Star Passing Drill

2. Skill Drills (Next 2 x 20 minutes): Focused on drills targeting specific skills like dodging, sliding, and other fundamental techniques, these segments are designed to reinforce key concepts and improve overall player ability.
Pass, Pick and Slip Drill
1v1 Slide and Recover

Second Hour: Game Preparation

The second hour is split into two 30-minute segments:

1. High-Intensity Drills (First 30 minutes): This segment includes high-energy activities that build skills, encourage teamwork, and keep players moving. The goal is to challenge the players physically and ensure they are fatigued.
5v4 Dynamic Transition Scramble Drill

2. Tactical Play and Scrimmage (Last 30 minutes): The final part focuses on game strategy with 6v6 scrimmages, clearing and riding drills, and other scenarios to reinforce tactical awareness and decision-making.
Attack over clear

This structure provides a comprehensive practice that balances skill development, conditioning, and tactical awareness, ensuring players are well-prepared for both individual and team success.