Passing drill
Switch Drill
Practise the switch and dummy switch, which change the angle of attack against a drifting defence.
- Time
- 15 minutes
- Players
- 6 to 12 players
- Intensity
- Medium
- Equipment
- Ball, cones
- Space
- 10m x 15m grid
- Positions
- All positions
Setup
A 10m x 15m grid with three groups on the sideline and three opposite on the 15m line, 10m apart. One ball per group.
How to run it
- The ball carrier runs at the player on their left and switches with them, changing angle sharply so the receiver cuts back the other way behind them.
- That player continues across and switches with the third, and the final player pops a pass to the middle player of the waiting group opposite.
- Carry the ball in two hands and screen it from the imaginary defender as you switch, and receivers must react to the carrier's change of angle rather than running a pre-set line.
- Once the pattern is smooth, mix in dummy switches so nobody knows which is coming.
- Do 8 rounds.
Coaching cues
- React to the carrier's change of angle
- Ball in two hands, screened from the defender
- Communicate every switch
Common mistakes
- No genuine change of angle, so there is nothing to deceive a defender with
- Carrying the ball in one hand into the switch
Related drills
- Pressure Pass ChannelCatch and pass in one motion under time pressure while running.
- Wall Pass ReboundBuild passing accuracy and reaction catching completely alone, off any flat wall.
- Solo Halfback Wall PassGroove the scrum-half clearing pass off the ground in one sweep, with no partner needed.
- Pass ProgressionBuild a smooth, rhythmic two-handed pass from static through to running pace.
- Spiral Pass PairsDevelop the long spin pass that lets you move the ball wide quickly.
- Moving Pair PassFix the weak-side pass by forcing you to give and take the ball on both sides while moving.