Combinations Passing – Common Problems & Solutions

Below are the most common problems you will likely face along with solutions in terms of coaching points and advice for your players. If you encounter other problems, please post details in the comments on this page and your issue will be addressed.

Combo Passing:

Problem: Passes are not accurate and it breaks down too often

Solution: Encourage your players to make eye contact with the teammate they are going to pass to AND communicate with each other. This way they can maintain quality and not switch off or go onto ‘robot’ mode where they lose focus. Push players to take pride in every pass.

Problem: Players get bored quickly

Solution: If you have enough players to split into two groups, have the two teams race against each other (while maintaining quality) to see who can progress through the passing combinations from start to finish the quickest. This adds some competition and quickly invigorates players’ motivation.

Problem: Players find it easy and lose focus

Solution: Have all players MOVE more. This way, the player making a pass has to get their head up and see where the receiving player has moved to while they are passing. This includes the middle players and the players at each end; moving just a few yards keeps the player passing the ball mentally engaged and challenged.