The Bounce-Back Run: How to Get Open When a Defender is Glued to You

Imagine you are standing on the field. Your teammate has the ball. You want them to pass it to you.

The problem? A defender is standing right next to you. They are so close you can hear them breathe. If your teammate passes the ball to you right now, the defender will just step in front of you and steal it.

If you just run straight toward your teammate, the defender will run with you and block the pass.

To get open, you have to trick them. You do this with a move called the Bounce-Back Run.

How to Do the Bounce-Back Run

The Bounce-Back Run has two parts. First, you run away from the ball. Second, you run back to the ball.

Here is exactly how to do it:

1. Run away first. Start by running away from your teammate who has the ball. Run toward the opponent's goal. Run hard and fast.
2. Watch the defender. When you sprint away, the defender will get scared. They will think you are running deep to get a long pass. To keep up with you, the defender will start running backward as fast as they can.
3. Stop on a dime. Once the defender is running backward, stop suddenly. Plant your foot hard in the grass.
4. Bounce back. Sprint back toward your teammate.

Now you have space. Why? Because the defender was running backward very fast. When you stopped and turned around, the defender could not stop as fast as you. They will slide or stumble for a second. That split second is all you need to get the ball.

Why This Trick Works on Everyone

This trick works on eight-year-olds and it works on professionals. It works because of how our bodies move.

It is very hard for a human to stop and change directions when running backward. Try it yourself at your next practice. Run backward fast, then try to stop and sprint forward. It feels clunky and slow.

When you do the Bounce-Back Run, you are running forward. You can stop and change directions much faster than the defender who is running backward. You are using their own speed against them.

Three Rules for a Perfect Run

To make this run work every time, keep these rules in mind:

• Sell the fake. You must run away like you really expect a long pass. If you jog, the defender will not get scared. They will just stand there. You must sprint.
• Time it right. Do not make your run too early. If you bounce back before your teammate is ready to kick, the defender will have time to catch up. Wait until your teammate looks up at you.
• Call for the ball. As you bounce back, show your teammate your hands. Give them a target. This tells them to pass the ball to your feet right now.

Once the ball comes to you, use your first touch to keep the ball away from the defender. You will have a few yards of open space to look up, pass, or dribble.

Try the Bounce-Back Run in your next scrimmage. Do not just stand there and wait for the ball. Push the defender away, bounce back, and make the play.