Duck Duck Goose with a Ball

Learning

Reacting quickly, carrying the ball in two hands and running into space.

Equipment

Rugby balls, Cones

Best group

2–3 circles of 8–12

Space / set up

2–3 circles, one ball carrier outside each.

Duration

5–8 minutes

Skills

Movement, Evasion, Ball carrying, Try scoring, Reaction

• Children sit or kneel safely in a circle, with 2–3 circles for a full class.
• One player starts outside the circle holding a rugby ball.
• Leave a clear running lane around the outside of each circle.

1. 1The ball carrier walks around the outside of the circle.
2. 2They gently tap children and say “Duck… Duck… Duck…”.
3. 3They choose someone: “GOOSE!”
4. 4The Goose gets up and chases.
5. 5The ball carrier runs around the circle trying to reach the empty space.
6. 6The ball stays carried safely in two hands; swap roles and continue.

• “Two hands!”
• “Eyes up!”
• “Run around the outside!”
• “Find the space!”

This activity is suitable for ages 3–7. Choose a stage to see the coaching guidance for that group.

Walk or jog rather than full sprint; coach helps choose so everyone gets a turn.

• Do not run one enormous circle of 30 — the waiting is too long.
• Use 2–3 circles at the same time.
• Teacher or assistant supervises another circle.

Make it easier: Play without a ball to begin with.

Level it up: Carry the ball and finish by placing it down as a try in the empty space.

• Try finish

  Place the ball down as a try in the space.

• Two balls

  Two carriers moving in opposite directions around a big circle.

P: two hands and go • A: choose someone new each time • S: run around the outside only