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Three-Player Passing Switch

Train players to make quick, accurate combination passes with movement off the ball using a simple three-player pattern.

Passing9-1011-1213-1415-16U18AdultSeniorschedule10mgroup3 players minimum
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Equipment, Setup & Instructions
Equipment
  • Cones/markers
  • 1 football
Setup
  1. Area: 10x20 yard grid marked with cones
  2. Group: 3 players, Player 1 and Player 3 on opposite corner cones at each end of the grid and Player 2 in the centre of the grid
  3. Equipment: 2 cones marking the two corner positions used by Player 1 and Player 3, 1 football
Instructions
  1. Player 1 starts with the football and passes to Player 2 (the centre player).
  2. Player 1 immediately moves to the cone on his side and receives the return pass from Player 2.
  3. Once Player 1 has the ball at his cone and returns it to Player 2, Player 2 moves to Player 1’s original corner position.
  4. Player 1 plays a long pass into Player 3.
  5. Player 3 returns the ball into Player 1, who is set at the cone that is 10 yards away.
  6. Player 1 becomes the new central player, while Player 3 moves down to Player 1’s previous central position by playing the long ball to that starting spot.
  7. Continue the pattern, repeating the same sequence for the required time.
Coaching Points
  • Pass with the right weight so the receiver can control first time.
  • Get the timing right with runs that face the passing direction.
  • Encourage clear communication so players know who is receiving.
  • Make accurate passes—aim for the feet, not the body.
  • Concentrate on correct off-the-ball movement each time the ball travels.
  • Keep the pattern flowing: quick return passes and minimal standing still.
Variations
Make it harder:
• Add a second football so players work through the sequence faster.
• Introduce a time limit (e.g., complete one rotation in 8–10 seconds).
• Add a defender in the centre who closes down the first pass, forcing faster decisions.
Make it easier:
• Reduce the grid size (e.g., 8m x 16m) to shorten passing distances.
• Use softer passes with less pace and allow the receiver an extra touch.
• Start with the central player staying central for longer before making the next move.
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