Drill

Setup

Coach rolls balls left/right from controlled distance.

Instructions

1. 1Set up in a low, balanced ready position with weight on the balls of the feet.
2. 2React to a rolled or hit ball the instant it leaves the coach's hand.
3. 3Check that the first move is a shuffle toward the ball, not a false step back.
4. 4Track reps where the athlete was caught flat-footed or standing tall.

Key feel

Being loaded and moving on first contact instead of reacting late.

Success cue

Earlier organized movement without false step.

Recommended reps

5 sets of 8 reaction rolls

Progression

Increase variability.

Common mistake

Standing tall or taking a false step before moving to the ball.