Coordination - Exercise:

Octopus Race

The Octopus Race is a coordination training exercise

This training exercise is not only suitable for the U5 to U10 age groups – it can also be used for older players or even seniors, for fun at least.

A. Learning goals

Movement and ball coordination, team play

B. Fantasy

Octopus=Kids holding hands
Pearl=Ball
Seabed=Goal square

C. Story

We are at the deepest point in the Atlantic Ocean. The sea here is ruled by giant octopuses, which nobody had ever seen, or even known about, until now. The octopuses own pearls which are more beautiful than anyone can imagine. Now the octopuses have been discovered, and they are trying to bring the pearls to safety by diving deeper and deeper into the sea.

D. Organisation

At least four children form a circle and hold hands. Each circle of kids in the soccer drill has a ball. A goal square is marked out.

E. Description

Groups of four to six children hold hands in a circle and attempt to move a ball in the middle of the circle into the goal. The ball is not allowed to leave the circle. Which team will find its way to the goal square first?

F. Variations

  • Two balls in the circle.
  • Use different balls (e.g.soccer ball, volleyball, tennisball, handball).

G. Tips

  • The circle spins around as well as moving forwards and backwards.
  • When introducing variations, pay attention to the team’s level of ability.
Coordination exercise octopus race