AFL · Marking

Chest marks from a throw

A partner throws the ball gently at the chest and the marker catches it with hands first, then hugs it in.

T1M1T2M2
Start / 4
Time
8 min
Players
2–20
Age
U5–U10
Area
10 × 5 m per pair
Equipment
6 size 2 footballs (one per pair)12 cones

Setup

  1. Pair up on two cones about 4 m apart.
  2. One player is the thrower and holds the ball; the other is the marker.
  3. Parents or the coach can be the thrower for the youngest players.

How it runs

  1. The thrower lobs the ball underarm at the marker's chest.
  2. The marker takes it with hands out, then hugs it into the chest, and throws it back.
  3. After a good mark, the marker takes a big step back.
  4. After ten marks, swap jobs.

Coaching points

  • Hands out early, fingers spread, little fingers close together.
  • Watch the ball all the way into your hands.
  • Soft hands, then pull the ball in tight to your chest.

Common mistakes

  • Arms straight out stiff, so the ball bounces off.
  • Turning the head away or closing the eyes.

Say it: “Hands out, watch it in, hug it.”

Make it harder

  • Throw a little higher or a little to the side.
  • Marker takes two steps forward to meet the ball.

Make it easier

  • Stand 2 m apart and use a soft or smaller ball.
  • Let the ball bounce once before the mark.

Pairs well with

Reviewed by the Sportdify coaching team.