Setting a Challenge: 3 Passes, One Game, and a Lot to Learn

After two and a half years of coaching, I still find every match a learning opportunity, especially for me.

Today, for a friendly, I tried something new. I’d been working with the boys on improving their passing and moving, and after listening to a podcast recently, I heard a suggestion that stuck: set your team a challenge during a game. Something clear, specific, and skill-focused.

So that’s what I did.

The Challenge

The objective:
👉 See how many times you can complete 3 or more passes without losing the ball.

Simple. Achievable. Focused.

I messaged the parents beforehand to let them know, so they could chat about it with their kids before arriving. I meant to ask the boys to go tell their parents too, to really lock in the learning, but we ran out of time before kickoff.

Still, the intention was there. And the challenge was set.

Why Set a Challenge?

I believe in letting kids play freely. There’s a magic in watching them just go for it, attacking the ball, enjoying themselves, not overthinking. But I also believe in learning. And I felt this challenge struck a good balance:

• It wasn’t too rigid

• It kept the game fun

• It encouraged awareness and teamwork

That’s the sweet spot.

Coaching the Coach

Looking back, I realised how much of this approach came from my executive coaching mindset.

• I reflected on my values, creativity and authenticity, and trusted my gut.

• I noticed the inner voice of doubt (the "coach's challenge" voice) telling me “don’t overcomplicate it”, and decided to do it anyway.

• I checked in with the assistant coach for a second opinion, just like in leadership, a second lens always helps sharpen the plan.

The challenge wasn’t just for the players. It was a coaching moment for me too.

So… How Did It Go?

We lost 1–0.

But in the first half, we passed really well.
In the second half, we played out from defence with confidence, no panic, no hoofing.

There was a moment late on where the boys reverted to kicking the ball away under pressure. It had started raining, they were getting tired, and just wanted to break forward. That’s part of it too.

But overall? I saw real progress. And more importantly, I saw them thinking.

Would I Do It Again?

100% yes.

This kind of challenge sets a clear goal that supports skill development and creates talking points for players, coaches, and parents. I’ll definitely tweak it for other matches, maybe next time it's about switching play, or playing through thirds, but I’m grateful to have found this idea and seen it work.

One of the best parts of coaching? You’re always learning too.