MOVEMENT AFTER THE PASS OR SHOT

Standing still breaks possession

When a player passes and stops:

• the team loses a supporting option

• defenders step into space

• pressure increases on the next ball carrier

• possession often ends quickly

Many turnovers at this age happen one pass later, because the original passer didn’t move to help.

Movement keeps the team connected.

Movement after the ball creates new options

The pass changes the picture of the field.

After the ball moves:

• defenders shift

• space opens somewhere else

• new passing lanes appear

Players who move after passing:

• become an option again

• help teammates under pressure

• create triangles and angles naturally

Movement turns one good decision into multiple good moments.

Movement after shots creates second chances

Shots rarely result in immediate goals at the U10+ rec level.

After a shot:

• rebounds happen

• loose balls appear

• goalkeepers spill saves

• defenders scramble

Players who stop and admire shots miss these moments.

Players who move give their team second chances.

To keep this age-appropriate and clear, movement after the ball should be taught in three simple categories.

Move to support the ball again

After passing, players should ask: “Where can I help next?”

Common support movements:

• moving a few steps to the side

• dropping underneath as a safe option

• drifting into nearby open space

Why this matters:

• gives the ball carrier an outlet

• prevents isolation

• supports possession

Move to create space for teammates

Sometimes the best movement is away from the ball.

After passing, a player can help by:

• dragging a defender away

• moving into a different lane

• clearing space for a teammate to attack

This movement may never receive the ball — but it still helps the team.

Move to react to rebounds or loose balls

After a shot or deflection, the game becomes unpredictable.

Players should:

• follow the shot at a controlled pace

• be ready for rebounds

• stay alert for loose balls

• avoid stopping to watch

This is especially important for:

• players near the goal

• players who took the shot

• nearby supporting players

Players cannot move effectively if they don’t know what’s around them.

After passing or shooting, players should:

• scan quickly

• notice defenders shifting

• find open space or support areas

• adjust movement accordingly

This reinforces the idea that: Movement is a decision — not a reaction.

• Passing and stopping → players don’t yet see the next moment

• Standing to watch shots → players don’t expect rebounds

• Running straight toward the ball → players don’t understand spacing

• All players crashing the goal → players don’t recognize shape

Movement After the Pass or Shot connects directly to:

• Supporting the Ball

• Intentional Passing Decisions

• Possession — Controlling the Game

• Space — Creating It

• Shape, Positioning & Sliding

This concept relies on, but does not reteach:

• Passing

• Receiving

• Scanning

• Shooting

• Ball Control
  
  

Skills start the play. Movement keeps it alive.