The speed that players move without the ball can be crucial. Sometimes, moving at maximum speed is required, whereas at other times they need a slower pace. In many cases, a change of speed will actually be the key to getting open.

To develop the ability to effectively change speed, it is not enough for the coach to occasionally tell their players to “change speed”. As with any skill, players must be given an opportunity to work on this specifically.

Some players will naturally be faster (or slower), however, for all athletes a change of speed can be effective. Coaches should include activities that allow players to move at different speeds because awareness of their own speed is the first step to being able to control it.