⚽ Set Pieces · Throw-Ins
Long Throw Routine
A player with a long throw has a weapon that most grassroots teams don't utilise.
Long Throw Routine — full pitch view
The one cue that matters
Long thrower getting full body rotation and follow-through — range comes from technique, not just arm strength
◆Why this drill works
A player with a long throw has a weapon that most grassroots teams don't utilise. The long throw into the penalty area — delivered accurately into the near-post, far-post, or penalty spot zone — produces headed shots at the same frequency as a corner. This drill identifies the squad's longest thrower and builds a routine around their range.
▦The drill in three phases
1Setup
Starting positions — players, zones and equipment in place.
2Action
Movement begins — players run, dribble and create the pattern.
3Finish
The end action — pass, shot or outcome the drill builds toward.
Ball carrierAttackersDefendersPass / dribbleShot
▶How to run it
- Identify the two longest throwers in the squad. Test from the touchline — who reaches the penalty spot?
- Delivery drill: long thrower delivers into three target zones: near post, far post, penalty spot. Two receives per zone. No attackers yet.
- Add two attackers and a passive defender. Attackers attack the zone called by the coach.
- Name the routine. 'ROCKET' or similar. Practice calling it before taking the throw.
- Full game: count how many long throw opportunities arise in a 9v9. How many are used?
✓Equipment checklist
- Balls6
- Cones8
- Bibs8
✦Coaching points
Praise when you see
- Long thrower getting full body rotation and follow-through — range comes from technique, not just arm strength
- Attackers starting their run after the throw, not before — timing is the same as a corner
Correct when you see
- Underestimating the throw-in as an attacking weapon — if you have a player who reaches the penalty spot, that throw is as dangerous as a free kick
- Attackers beginning movement before the throw — a step offside is technically possible if movement starts before the ball is released
★Kit for this drill — top picks compared
| Pick | Product | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top pick | Free Kick Mannequins | Realistic wall practice. | Check price → |
| Value | Training Footballs (6-pack) | Dead-ball reps. | Check price → |
| Upgrade | Pop-Up Goals (pair) | Target practice. | Check price → |
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?Frequently asked questions
What age group is Long Throw Routine suitable for?
This drill suits U13–adult. Keep routines simple for younger players; older players can rehearse more sophisticated, disguised routines.
How many players do I need for Long Throw Routine?
This drill works well with around 12 players. With fewer, reduce the groups or rotate players through; with more, set up multiple stations so everyone stays active rather than queuing.
How long does Long Throw Routine take?
Allow around 3 minutes to set up and 12 minutes to run it — about 15 minutes in total. It fits well as the technical or main block of a session, leaving time for a warm-up and a game.