AFL · Marking

Overhead marks in pairs

Partners kick high balls to each other and practise taking the mark overhead, hands in a W, at the top of the jump.

F1M1F2M2
Start / 4
Time
12 min
Players
2–20
Age
U11+
Area
15 × 10 m per pair
Equipment
10 size 3 or 4 footballs (one per pair)10 cones

Setup

  1. Pairs stand 15 m apart with one ball, facing each other between two cones.
  2. Spread the pairs out so balls don't cross.

How it runs

  1. The feeder kicks a short, high drop punt to the marker (or throws it for a group still learning).
  2. The marker steps in, jumps off one foot and takes the ball overhead, out in front of the head.
  3. After the mark they bring the ball down to the chest and kick it back. Swap after eight marks.

Coaching points

  • Eyes on the ball all the way into the hands.
  • Hands in a W: thumbs and index fingers almost touching behind the ball.
  • Arms slightly bent; take it in front of the head, not behind it.
  • Meet the ball at the top of the jump, then bring it straight down to the chest.

Common mistakes

  • Hands too far apart, so the ball slips through.
  • Waiting flat-footed for the ball instead of going up to meet it.
  • Taking the eyes off the ball at the last moment.

Say it: “Eyes on the ball, hands in a W, take it in front.”

Make it harder

  • A third player stands behind the marker and reaches a hand in, no pushing.
  • Kick from 20 m and have the marker run in and jump at the drop zone.

Make it easier

  • Underarm throws from 5 m.
  • Mark standing, without the jump.

Pairs well with

Reviewed by the Sportdify coaching team.