Dribbling for Possession (Shielding)

When a player has nobody to pass to, dribbling for possession is the variety of choice. The dribbler shields the ball, by turning away from the defender and placing a body in the way. Darting in different directions is another way to dribble for possession.
Ride the Bronco is a game that teaches and strengthens this form of dribbling. It's one of those rare games that could be played by U-Littles, professionals, and everyone in between.

Ride the Bronco

In a circular playing area, one player shields the ball and darts about while another tries to tackle the ball away. For extra incentive, players may divide into teams.

Rules for Ride the Bronco

Playing Area. The playing area is a circle about twenty paces in diameter. A square, rectangle, or semicircle may also be used.
Teams and Starting Positions. At least two and no more than ten players compete in a playing area. The players are divided into two even teams. The players on one team each have a ball, and begin as dribblers. They line up outside the circle. The other team’s players begin as defenders on the opposite side. The coach keeps time.
Object of the Game. A dribbler tries to keep the ball in the circle for as long as possible, by darting about and shielding. The team with the longest cumulative dribbling time wins.
How a Try Proceeds. When the first dribbler enters the playing area, the first defender gives chase as the coach starts the clock. The dribbler may put moves on the defender, dart about the playing area, or turn to shield the ball. The defender tries to end the attempt by getting two consecutive touches on the ball or kicking it out. Players may lean against each other, but may not push or foul. The coach calls fouls, and a foul by the dribbler ends the try. A foul by the defender adds ten seconds to the total time.
How the Game Proceeds. After the first try, the dribbler and defender return to their original lines. The next dribbler and defender then jump in quickly, as the clock continues to run. When each dribbler has had two tries, the coach stops the clock and announces the cumulative time. The teams then switch roles.
Double Bronco Provision. If a defender chases the ball for twenty seconds without success, the coach may call out “Double Bronco!” A second defender then joins the first to pursue the ball (see diagram below).

The defender who can’t get the ball away will be tempted to foul. The Double Bronco rule offers relief. And before every game, remind your players—safety first!

Double Bronco can also be the feature HISA now and then. As a dribbler enters the playing area, two defenders give chase. Dribblers who survive for twenty seconds earn the coveted Double Bronco Certification. They can divide and conquer multiple defenders.