Developing a range of fielding skills during striking/fielding activities can be the difference between success and failure. Below are 5 drills and activities that can be used to develop a range of core skills:
1. Zig-zag (Used to develop short catching and underarm fielding)
Underarm fielding is often overlooked but it should be encouraged when the fielder is 10 metres or less from their target.
This activity is really good when used in a class/ large group situation. Pupils work in groups of 10 and they set up two rows of cones are set up 5m apart in width and 2m apart on the line.
Once the pupils have found a partner, they line up opposite each other, behind the first cone with one ball between them.
The first pair must exchange 5 catches before running diagonally to the next cone where they repeat the 5 catches.
After this the pupils run to the next cone where they now roll the ball 5 times to their partner. The partner performs an underarm pick up and returns the ball to their partner. Upon reaching the end cone, the participants jog back to the start and repeat.
2. Cannon Fodder (Used to develop catching from height)
It is essential that all fielders are able to catch a ball which has been hit high in the air. Teachers should encourage the pupils to align themselves with the ball by ensuring that their chest is underneath the ball on impact. Cushioning the ball is also essential to prevent the ball from bouncing out of the hands. This is achieved by simply flexing the knees and bending the arms once the ball initially makes contact with the fielder. The activity can be done in pairs or small groups and is very easy to set up- All you need is 3 cones and one ball!
Pupil 2 throws the ball straight-up, pupil 1 runs in and catches before returning the ball back to pupil 2. Pupil 1 continues to run around the cone, and receives another high feed from pupil 2. On catching the ball, pupil 1 takes up 2’s original position before the next pupil in the queue begins.
3. Team catch (Used to develop footwork, underarm throws and catching)
This is a really nice practice to add a little bit of competition to your session. Form a rectangle big enough for two teams of 4-6 players The aim of the practice is for the team in possession of the ball to take 10 catches before a catch is dropped, or intercepted by the opposition. Players are able to move 3 steps whilst in possession of the ball but they must be at least two metres from their team mate when receiving the ball. This task can be differentiated in many including using larger balls for the less able, only allowing the more able to catch with one hand or introducing more than one ball into the practice.
4. Hunter-Gatherer (Used to develop picking the ball up quickly under pressure)
Pupil 1 starts on the middle cone, and aims to collect all 4 balls in as quickly as possible. The pupil must go out and retrieve the ball, bringing it back to the middle, before moving onto next cone. Once all the balls have been collected, the pupil then reverses the drill, putting all the balls back out onto the cones. The next pupil in line then repeats the activity. In order to put more pressure on the performer, those waiting in line can time the pupil completing the activity and record all results to find an overall winner.
5. Rob the nest (Overarm Throw)
This is a great activity for practicing overarm throws in a competitive situation. Divide the class into eight teams consisting of at least 3 team members. Mark out two square playing areas. Each team lines up on a side of the square. Place a large number of balls in the centre. On the signal the first player in each team runs to the centre, collects and throws the ball to player two in their team. Player two collects the ball in a basket or hoop next to the team. Player two repeats previous step, throwing to player three. Player three repeats throwing to player one. Teams continue until there are no balls left in the centre. The team with the most balls collected wins. If differentiation is required increase the distance of the throw or exclude any balls gained if the receiver drops the throw.
Try PE Office
Looking for ways to energize your PE lessons and elevate your teaching? PE Office offers engaging lesson plans and comprehensive schemes of work designed to captivate students and empower educators. With PE Office, you’ll find fresh ideas, innovative approaches, and resources that make planning and delivering impactful PE lessons a breeze. Discover the difference PE Office can make in your teaching and your students’ learning journey.
