High school · Transitions · 18 min
Five Seconds, Then Restack
Train the first pass after a regain: go if the 9 is on, restack if not. The press after a loss lasts five seconds — then the block reforms.
Attack DefendSolid = passDashed = run
- Space
- 40×30 yard grid, two mini-goals each end
- Equipment
- 12 disc cones · 4 mini-goals · 4 balls · pinnies
Organization
6v6. On a turnover, the team that lost it has five seconds to win it back. If they do, play on. If not, they must drop behind a restack line (cones at 12 yards). Score in either mini-goal. 4 × 3-minute games.
Whiteboard
Diagram notes
Horizontal grid. Two mini-goals on each end. Two teams of six. Restack line of cones 12 yards from each goal. Show a turnover in the middle, three press arrows toward the ball, and three drop arrows toward the restack line.
Coaching points
- The nearest three jump. Everyone else drops a step and tucks — not a six-man sprint.
- First pass after a win is forward if the lane is on. Otherwise it is a secure bounce.
- Five seconds is a count, not a feeling. After that, restack or you are open in behind.
- The restack line is a job. The 6 and the two CBs own it.
Phrases to use
- “Nearest three. Not six.”
- “If you can see the 9, go.”
- “Five seconds, then restack.”
- “Secure first if the lane is dead.”
Progressions
- Four seconds instead of five.
- Mini-goals only count if scored within 8 seconds of a regain.
- Add a neutral who always plays with the team in possession.
Regressions
- Seven seconds.
- No restack line — just the five-second press.
- Freeze on the whistle at the turnover so players can see the three jumpers.
Common mistakes
The whole team chases and a ball over the top ends the attack.
Three jump. The rest drop. Compact is the cover for the gamble.
They win it and immediately play a hopeful ball into traffic.
The first pass after a win is a decision: go or keep. Not a clearance.
Five seconds pass and they keep pressing anyway.
Call ‘restack’ from the 6. The press is over. Get behind the ball.