We have just uploaded a session on WINNING SECOND BALLS to the website and will add more throughout the day.

https://tactxcoach.com/programs/defensive-transition-full-session-2-10-players

A tricky one to coach for many reasons. Winning duels and second balls is a habit that should be encouraged in all practices but a focus can lead to many pitfalls for a coach. When designing any practice, considerations need to be made for the distances the players cover (are they realistic?) and the timing of the practice (high intensity, lower time). Get these wrong in a practice like this and it will be highlighted, leading to disengagement.

Player enjoyment leads to player engagement, and winning duels and second balls is one of the game's less attractive parts.

Therefore, when creating the practice, we must consider keeping the ball rolling and disguising these parts of the game to develop 'key, competitive habits'. Let us know what you think!