The One-Two Pass

Learning Outcomes

Improves passing accuracy and control for both players.
Develops first-touch skills for receiving the ball.
Enhances movement off the ball (creating space).
Promotes communication and teamwork between players

Description Of Activity

The One-Two Pass is a fundamental passing drill used in football (soccer) to improve passing accuracy, control, and movement off the ball. It involves two players working together to create space and quickly exchange passes.

Here's a breakdown of the drill:

Players: 2 (a passer and a receiver)

Set Up: The two players stand side-by-side, approximately 5-10 yards apart. You can use cones to mark their starting positions if needed.
Initial Pass: The passer starts with the ball at their feet. They play a pass to the receiver's dominant foot (the foot they prefer to control the ball with).
First Touch Control: The receiver takes a good first touch to control the ball, ideally stopping it with their dominant foot.
Movement Off the Ball: Here's the key element of the one-two:
The receiver makes a run forward in the direction the ball came from (creating space).
Optional: The receiver can also make a short diagonal run towards the passer to create a different angle for the return pass.
Return Pass: The passer anticipates the receiver's run and plays a second pass back to the receiver's path. Aim for a weighted pass that allows the receiver to continue their run in stride.
Repeat: The receiver controls the second pass and the drill continues. Players can switch roles after a set number of repetitions.

Variations

Increase the distance between players as their skills improve.
Introduce defenders (cones or other players) to practice playing the ball around them.
Use different passing techniques (laces, instep) for the one-two pass.

Coaching Tips

Focus on first touch: Encourage a good first touch by the receiver to control the ball quickly.
Communication: Players can call out "feet" before receiving the ball to signal they are ready for the pass.
Passing accuracy: Emphasize accurate and weighted passes from both players.
Movement off the ball: The receiver's run after the first touch is crucial. Encourage a forward burst of speed to create space.

Equipment/Material Required

A soccer ball (optional: cones to mark starting positions)