Game version
Shadow swim: stay between your partner and the goal with your arms in a good position, with no holding or contact. Swap often.
Intercept the Slow Pass
Read the eyes and arm of the passer to step in front of a slow pass.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Two players pass back and forth slowly.
Core: Swims slowly. Beat your own run of steady shadows.
- Ages
- 11 and up
- Time
- 12 min
- Players
- 3 players
- Space
- Pool
- Bring
- Pool, water polo ball, 3 players
- Level · skill
- Developing · Defense
The steps
How it works
- Two players pass back and forth slowly.
- Start 2 yards (2 m) off the receiver.
- When the passer looks and lifts, swim in to intercept.
- Do 10 tries, then rotate.
Coaching point
Read the eyes, then go.
Safety: Swim only with a lifeguard or coach watching and, under 14, a grown-up within arm’s reach. No grabbing, holding or splashing in faces: this is a no-contact game.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a level: Less (partner floats), Core (swims slowly), More (changes direction). Beat your own run of steady shadows.
Story
You are a dolphin guarding the reef.
My best
Beat your own count
Beat your own run of steady shadows. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
Print it now, or save it free
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