Basic Route Running

This lesson plan introduces students to the concept of route running in youth flag football, focusing on teaching common routes such as slants, posts, and curls through practical exercises.
By mark
Part of SUSD 2025 - Youth Flag Football
Public

Lesson Steps

Overview
1
Warm-Up Exercises
10 minutes
2
Introduction to Route Running
10 minutes
3
Demonstration of Routes
10 minutes
4
Route Running Drills
15 minutes
5
Feedback and Adjustments
10 minutes
6
Cool Down and Reflection
10 minutes
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Lesson Overview

In this engaging lesson, students embark on an exciting journey into the world of youth flag football by exploring the fundamental concept of route running. Understanding how to execute different routes is crucial for any aspiring football player, and this session lays the groundwork for mastering these essential skills. Through a combination of theory and hands-on practice, students discover the nuances of popular routes such as slants, posts, and curls.

The primary aim of this lesson is to equip students with the ability to recognize and perform these common routes effectively. By the end of the session, students will not only grasp the strategic importance of each route but also gain confidence in executing them on the field. This foundational knowledge serves as a stepping stone for further developing their skills in youth flag football.

Key Objectives

Key Objectives
  • Introduce students to the fundamental concept of route running in youth flag football, emphasizing the importance of precise movements and timing.
  • Teach students how to execute common routes such as slants, posts, and curls, focusing on correct footwork and body positioning.
  • Ensure students understand the importance of safety, including awareness of surroundings and avoiding collisions with teammates and opponents.
  • Encourage students to prepare mentally and physically for each play, highlighting the role of focus and anticipation in successful route execution.
  • Develop teamwork skills by coordinating with quarterbacks and fellow receivers to successfully execute routes within a play.
Equipment Required
  • Flag football belts
  • Cones for marking routes
  • Football
  • Whistle for signaling start and stop of drills
  • First aid kit for safety precautions
  • Stopwatch or timer for timed exercises
Step 1 of 6

Warm-Up Exercises

10 minutes
  • Start with a light jog around the field to gradually increase heart rate and warm up muscles.
  • Transition into dynamic stretches, including:
    • High Knees: Lift each knee as high as possible while jogging in place to activate the hip flexors.
    • Butt Kickers: Kick heels up towards the glutes, maintaining a brisk pace to engage the hamstrings.
    • Arm Circles: Extend arms out to the sides and make small circles to loosen the shoulders.
    • Leg Swings: Swing one leg forward and backward to open up the hip joints, alternating legs after a few swings.
    • Side Lunges: Step to the side with one foot, bending the knee while keeping the other leg straight, then switch sides.
  • Conclude with a brief jog in place, focusing on controlled breathing to prepare for the more intense activities ahead.
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Step 2 of 6

Introduction to Route Running

10 minutes

Begin by explaining the significance of route running in youth flag football. Emphasize how precise routes can create opportunities on the field and lead to successful plays.

Introduce the three basic routes that will be the focus of this lesson:

  • Slant: Describe how the receiver cuts at a 45-degree angle across the field. Explain that this route is effective for quick passes and gaining yards after the catch.
  • Post: Explain the route where the receiver runs straight down the field and then angles towards the goalposts. Highlight its use in deep passing plays.
  • Curl: Describe how the receiver runs downfield and then turns back towards the quarterback. Emphasize its effectiveness in creating separation from defenders.

Encourage students to visualize each route as it is being described, preparing them for the upcoming demonstrations and drills.

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Step 3 of 6

Demonstration of Routes

10 minutes

Gather the students in a semicircle so everyone has a clear view. Explain that you will demonstrate each route at half speed to highlight the important aspects of execution.

  • Slant Route: Start with the slant route by taking a few steps forward, then cutting sharply at a 45-degree angle. Emphasize the importance of quick footwork and maintaining a low center of gravity.
  • Post Route: Demonstrate the post route by running straight for a few yards, then angling towards the goalpost at a 45-degree angle. Highlight the need to maintain speed and use the shoulders to fake out defenders.
  • Curl Route: Show the curl route by running forward, stopping abruptly, and turning back towards the quarterback. Stress the importance of timing and quick pivots.

Encourage students to ask questions and observe carefully. Emphasize that precision and timing are key components of effective route running.

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Step 4 of 6

Route Running Drills

15 minutes

Organize students into small groups to practice the routes. Ensure each student has the opportunity to run each type of route multiple times. Follow these steps:

  • Group Formation: Divide the class into groups of 4 to 5 students. Assign one student as the quarterback in each group, with the remaining students as wide receivers.
  • Route Practice: Instruct students to practice the following routes, taking turns as the quarterback and wide receivers:
    • Slant Route: Run five yards forward, then cut at a 45-degree angle towards the center of the field.
    • Post Route: Run ten yards forward, then cut towards the goalpost at a 45-degree angle.
    • Curl Route: Run eight yards forward, then quickly turn back towards the quarterback to receive the pass.
  • Rotation: Rotate the quarterback position after each set of routes so that each student has a chance to play the role.
  • Encourage Communication: Emphasize the importance of clear communication between the quarterback and the receivers to ensure successful route execution.
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Step 5 of 6

Feedback and Adjustments

10 minutes

During this activity, observe students as they perform the various routes. Pay attention to their technique and execution of slants, posts, and curls. Offer constructive feedback to help them improve. Consider the following points when providing feedback:

  • Ensure students maintain proper posture and balance throughout the route.
  • Encourage students to use quick and precise footwork when making cuts or changes in direction.
  • Remind students to keep their eyes forward, focusing on their intended path and target.
  • Advise students to accelerate out of their cuts to create separation from defenders.
  • Highlight the importance of consistent pacing and timing in their routes.

Allow students to practice their routes again, incorporating the feedback provided to refine their skills.

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Step 6 of 6

Cool Down and Reflection

10 minutes

Guide students through the following cool down stretches:

  • Hamstring Stretch: Sit on the ground, extend one leg, and reach towards the toes. Hold for a few moments and switch legs.
  • Quad Stretch: Stand on one leg, bend the opposite knee, and hold the ankle behind you. Switch legs after a short hold.
  • Shoulder Stretch: Bring one arm across the body and hold it with the opposite arm. Repeat with the other arm.
  • Neck Stretch: Gently tilt the head towards one shoulder, hold, and repeat on the other side.

After stretches, lead a discussion by asking students the following questions:

  • What was the most challenging part of running the routes today?
  • How did you improve your technique during the drills?
  • What strategies will you use to remember and execute these routes in future games?

Encourage students to share their thoughts and provide positive reinforcement for their efforts during the lesson.

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