Protect the Castle

Fun game

Defend a target (the 'castle') as a team.

8 min 6–12 Half court · dual
DefenseTeamworkU8U10U12
Press play
OffenseDefenseBall / cone Move Pass
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Setup

Stand a cone ('castle') in the middle. One defender guards it; the rest form a circle with a ball.

Steps

  1. 1The circle passes the ball around and tries to knock the castle over.
  2. 2The defender blocks and deflects passes and shots.
  3. 3Whoever knocks it over becomes the new defender.
  4. 4Rotate so everyone defends.

Coaching points

  • Move the ball fast to shift the defender.
  • Fake a pass, make a pass.
  • Defender: stay active and read the passers.

Why kids love it

Fast passing plus a clear target makes teamwork instantly fun.

Variations

Harder

Two defenders guarding two castles.