Game version
Catch-and-call: a partner throws and calls a color or number, and you say it as you catch. The pair counts catches, then swaps.
Pad Swat Ball Security
After the catch, keep the ball high and tight while a partner gently swats at it with a foam pad.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
A partner throws from 10 yards.
Core: Medium. Beat your own best of catches out of 10.
- Ages
- 14 and up
- Time
- 10 min
- Players
- You and 2 partners
- Space
- Yard or field
- Bring
- Football, foam pad, 2 partners
- Level · skill
- Advanced · Catching
The steps
How it works
- A partner throws from 10 yards.
- Catch and tuck right away.
- A second partner gently swats a foam pad at the ball only.
- Do 15 reps and swap jobs.
Coaching point
Catch, tuck, cover.
Safety: Gentle swats at the ball only, never the body or head. Use a clear, soft area and throw at a speed your partner can handle.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a level: Less (soft toss), Core (medium), More (on the move). Beat your own best of catches out of 10.
Story
You are a receiver making the big play in the final minute.
My best
Beat your own count
Beat your own best of catches out of 10. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
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