Space Not Face Drill

The "Space, Not the Face" drill is an excellent way to improve communication, decision-making, and kicking accuracy while developing spatial awareness in players. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements that make this drill effective, particularly for players with limited ability:

Setup:

Two Groups: One group of kickers and one group of receivers.
Distance: 40 meters between the kickers and receivers.
Receiver Movement: The receivers have two boxes (left and right) that they can choose from.

Execution:

Non-verbal Communication: The receivers point to indicate which box they are moving toward, teaching them to communicate clearly without verbal cues.
Kicking: Kickers aim to pass accurately to the receiver’s chosen box. This focuses on accuracy and timing under pressure.
Continuous Movement: Receivers quickly return the ball to keep the flow of the drill going, ensuring that everyone stays engaged.

Drill Benefits:

Improves Awareness: Players develop the ability to identify space and communicate their movement to their teammates non-verbally.
Kicking Under Pressure: Kickers need to be precise in their passing, improving technique and decision-making.
Fitness and Coordination: Receivers are constantly moving, building their fitness and coordination while keeping the drill dynamic.
Adaptable for Different Skill Levels: By adjusting the distance or the pace, the drill can be tailored to fit groups of varying abilities.

Tips for Maximizing the Drill:

Encourage Quick Thinking: Push the receivers to make quick decisions on which box to run to.
Challenge the Kickers: Encourage them to use both feet to pass, increasing their versatility.
Monitor Stamina: After about 8 minutes, switch roles so that both groups get a fair amount of practice.

It’s a great way to keep players engaged and developing crucial game skills in an inclusive, easy-to-execute format.