Colour Call Directional Touch
A receiver in the middle of four coloured gates gets a pass. As the ball travels, the coach calls a colour and the first touch must go towards that gate.
- Age
- U9–U16
- Players
- 3–12
- Duration
- 12 min
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Intensity
- Medium
- Area
- 12 × 12 m
- Type
- Cognitive
- Approach
- Analytical
- Format
- Circuit
- Objectives
- Technical: Receiving / first touch, Passing
- Tactical: Decision making
- Concepts worked on
- Technical:Directional first touchReceiving
- Tactical:Scanning
- Physical:Reaction speed
Training diagram
Legend
- Attacker
- Pass
- Dribble
- Ball
- Cone
The late call makes the player decide during the pass, not before, which is what happens in a game. The receiver learns to stay open and use the inside or outside of either foot to direct the ball. Fast repetitions with two receivers alternating.
Objective
Direct the first touch to a target chosen at the last moment.
Organisation
- Square of 12 × 12 m with four 2 m gates of different colours (two in front, one on each side).
- A server with balls on the near side; the receiver in the centre.
How it works
- The server passes; while the ball travels, the coach calls a colour.
- The receiver directs the first touch towards that gate and dribbles through it, then returns the ball.
- 10 receptions each, then rotate.
Coaching points
- Stay on your toes, body open.
- Decide the surface (inside/outside, right/left) as the call comes.
- The first touch goes 1–2 m in the direction of the gate.
Progressions
- Show a coloured bib instead of calling (visual cue).
- Pass through the gate instead of dribbling.
Regressions
- Call the colour before the pass.
Variations
- The server becomes a defender who chases after the pass.
Key principles
- Decide late, touch with purpose.
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