A useful pass reaches a teammate in a way that helps her next action. Hitting a small target is a good start, but distance, timing and the receiver’s movement matter too. These STAR practices focus on delivering the ball; our separate first-touch guide covers what happens when it arrives. Use a safe, level space, a suitable ball and flat markers, and adjust distances to the player.
Begin with a comfortable short pass
Stand a few metres apart. Approach the ball comfortably, place the supporting foot alongside it and use the inside of the other foot to guide it towards your partner. Keep the ankle steady through contact. Start slowly enough to notice the direction and pace rather than trying to strike hard.
Ask the receiver whether the pass was comfortable to control. If it repeatedly bounces, reduce the force and explore contact nearer the middle of the ball. If accuracy falls, shorten the distance. There is no need to demand identical body shapes from every player.
Drill one: pass through a gate
Make a gate about a metre wide between two players. Pass along the ground through it, allowing a settling touch before returning. Begin with a generous target and gradually narrow it only if the task remains enjoyable.
Notice which side of the gate the ball misses. Change one detail, such as supporting-foot direction, then try again. Count a short run of comfortable passes if the player likes a challenge; a personal score is optional.
Drill two: match the distance
Set one short and one longer passing distance. Alternate between them and ask the receiver to stay in place so the passer can judge how much force is needed. The longer pass should still be controllable.
Progress by letting the receiver choose either position before the pass. The passer now needs to look up and adjust, rather than repeat the same swing regardless of the situation.
Drill three: pass into a moving path
A partner walks sideways across a wide gate. Play the ball into her path so she can collect it without stopping. Begin at walking pace, swap roles and then change direction.
A pass behind the runner often means the release was late or aimed at where she had been. Ask where she was going and try a slightly earlier release. Increase speed only when both players can work comfortably.
Drill four: choose the open option
With three players, offer two receivers and let a passive defender block one passing lane. The passer can use the free receiver or wait while the angle changes. Rotate roles regularly.
This is where passing practice becomes a football decision. Praise recognising a blocked lane and finding another solution, rather than treating every retained ball as a missed opportunity to pass.
Common questions about passing practice
Should every pass be first time? No. A settling touch can help a beginner find balance; first-time play is useful when the situation allows it. Should she always pass forwards? No. A sideways or backwards pass may keep possession and create a better next attack.
Can she practise alone? A safe rebound wall can work where permission and surroundings allow it. Mark a broad target, stand close enough to control the return and avoid windows, people and roads. Partner practice adds information that a wall cannot provide.
FROM READING TO PLAYING
Something to try
Choose two drills for a short practice, with breaks. Finish by asking which pass helped the receiver most. Next time, change the receiver’s position rather than simply making every pass longer.
Take it into your football
- Judge a pass by how it helps the receiver.
- Adjust pace to distance and movement.
- Add a choice once the basic action feels comfortable.
Further reading
Explore related guidance from these primary sources. Practice examples and suggested conversations on this page are STAR’s own guidance.
Explore girls’ football coaching in Taunton, Bridgwater and Wellington.
Compare STAR programmes →Have a question about applying this to her game?
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