Game version
Call-the-play: a partner shows a hand signal or color and you say what you will do. Swap, and count correct calls together.
Swim to Space
Without the ball, swim into the open space so the passer can find you, and call for the ball.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
One partner has the ball, one is a defender who stays still.
Core: Two. Beat your own best out of 10.
- Ages
- 11 and up
- Time
- 10 min
- Players
- You and 2 partners
- Space
- Pool
- Bring
- Ball, cones, 2 partners
- Level · skill
- Developing · Game IQ
The steps
How it works
- One partner has the ball, one is a defender who stays still.
- Swim to the open side of the defender and raise your hand.
- Catch the pass and pass back.
- Do 12 reps from different starts.
Coaching point
Move where the defender is not.
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 (one signal), Core (two), More (a surprise signal). Beat your own best out of 10.
Story
You are the captain reading the sea for the next move.
My best
Beat your own count
Beat your own best out of 10. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
Print it now, or save it free
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