Training Tips - Forward Entries
This exercise sees forwards line players outnumber backs at one end of the ground while at the other end backs outnumber the forwards, allowing players to practice in different match situations.
It also allows the midfield to work in game based situations with pressure from opposition midfielders practicing forward line entries and selecting the best option up forward.
Download the training drill charts here:
Download the full program
How it works:
1. The playing group is divided into 2 teams and set up on the oval with 3 defenders on 4 forwards at one end, 4 midfielders on 3 defenders in the middle of the ground and 3 forwards on 4 defenders at the other end. All the spares players rotate.
2. The coach rolls the ball to the midfielders, who kick long to a contested situation where the defenders outnumber the forwards. If the forwards mark or gain possession, they kick a goal and restart with the coach rolling the ball to the midfielders again.
3. If the defenders mark or gain possession, they counter attack and get the ball to the midfielders again, who share the ball and kick long to the other forward line, where the forwards outnumber the defenders.
4. If the forwards mark, they kick the goal. If the defenders win the ball, they get it back to the coach and the spare players rotate into the drill.
5. Each set play should last no longer than 2 minutes.
Tips:
Have the drill done with high intensity, replicating game speed, which will improve a player’s ability to kick the ball to a position at top pace. This drill can be varied, by making it shorter or having players set up in different positions on the ground.
