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Ship, Shark, Shore

A fun reaction based dribbling game where players listen for Ship, Shark, or Shore and race to the correct zone while keeping tight ball control.

How it Works

Mark three court zones and label them Ship, Shark, and Shore. Every player starts with a ball. On your call, players dribble to the correct line using the appropriate hand. Mix in fake calls, quick repetitions, and sudden changes of direction to keep players alert. Adjust spacing so players must navigate traffic without losing control. The reactive movement feels similar to the mirroring and control work in Mirror Moves. If you want to add pressure or backward movement, you can build in the same composure cues you use in Toss and Go with Retreat Dribble. For sharper directional changes, you can connect it to the footwork and dribble patterns found in Zig-Zag Handle and Go.

Progression Or Variation

  • Add fake calls so players must listen closely
  • Require a change of direction at each zone
  • Use weak hand only rounds
  • Add a time challenge to increase pace
  • Shrink space to raise difficulty and force tighter control

Coaching Points

  • Encourage players to keep their eyes up
  • Emphasize strong stops and controlled changes of direction
  • Remind players to react to the call, not guess
  • Reinforce clean footwork when switching hands
  • Keep transitions quick so the drill stays energetic

Why This Drill Works

Ship Shark Shore trains attention, reaction, and dribble control in a simple format that works for a wide range of ages. Players learn to process cues quickly, move with purpose, and control the ball under light pressure. The constant decision making builds habits they will rely on in real game situations.

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