Transition
Transition Game — 9v9 with Counter Rules
9v9 plus GKs
Theme
Transition
Duration
35 min
Players (min–rec–max)
20–20–20
Equipment
balls, bibs, cones
Set-up
9v9 plus GKs. Goals only count if scored within eight seconds of winning possession — this forces transition speed and direct play. If you don't score within eight seconds, reset and play normal possession. High tempo throughout; ball boys needed to keep play moving.
Coaching points
- Identify the outlet immediately — don't stand looking at the ball after you win it
- Wide players must sprint into space the moment their team turns it over
- Defensive transition: two seconds of grace, then full pressure — no slow jogs back
Progressions
- Reduce the time limit to six seconds to increase urgency further
- Award a bonus point for a transition goal scored with three passes or fewer