There are two types of turnovers: the ones with the right intention and a regular turnover. For example, you see a player open on the one on goalie and the ball skips a little and the goalie gets it first. This shows that you saw the opening but failed to execute it. Many times if the team is struggling, the more experienced player will commit turnovers because they are trying to make something happen. This is positive as long as it does not become a habit.

On the other hand, a regular turnover is when there is a counter attack and instead of passing the  ball to the open player, the pass is made to a player defended by two other defenders. That decision shows that the player is not reading the game and forcing a bad decision. 

To 6-8, if a turnover is committed while the player is attempting to do the right thing - that is acceptable and can be fine-tuned. A ‘bad turnover’ can be described as not putting the ball in play, throwing the ball to the wrong person, and unforced errors like inside the 2 meter line - these errors are unacceptable and can kill team play. 

How to Improve

The most common mistakes that lead to turnover fouls:

Poor passing skills, especially under pressure

Incorporate more drills that involve physical contact, such as our “Don’t get Fouled” shooting drill or “Kill Bill”-  where the athlete needs to get used to passing while someone is pressing or pushing them. Donkey legs and step out passes are great drills to teach athletes how to get away and make a good pass.

Inability to stay composed in high stress situations 

6-8 recommends creating high stress practices where a losing team or a player that missed the cage gets some type of punishment. However there are other ways to facilitate stress. For example, instructing athletes that they can’t do their favorite shot and forcing them to try something new: dunking them to come up and finish a shot, adding players chasing or attacking and seeing if they can finish. The more realistic it is to a game situation, the better practice  it will be for the athletes.

Impatient and rushing the pass 

Players usually rush a pass when they either don’t know what to do once they have the ball, are not comfortable taking a foul or struggle with holding the ball. Under pressure drills (see above) can help athletes become more comfortable protecting the ball. Coaches need to create situations where athletes are forced to understand what to do in a small window of time. Time restraints (5 sec, 10 sec etc) and running specific situations like 3-4 zone, 2 drive  or 6 on 5 all teach the players what to look at first. Counter attack drills where one player holds behind and they need to adjust are also great.

Trying to create too much or being over aggressive 

This falls under the positive turnover category and coaches should refrain from discouraging athletes for this type of action. However, you do want to speak with the player(s) to help them understand why sometimes less can be more.

Not reading the situation and not making the correct read

Incorporate watching video, showing the correct situation and emphasizing the importance of breaking down situations piece-by-piece during practice. A common mistake is when the center is facing the 4-5 side and the player at 4 swings the ball to 2 - completely neglecting the center. For example, passing the ball to center when there is a drive in place. Players need to understand that unless the center is wide open - they will be countered. 

Knowledge of the rules

It is critical that coaches have reviewed any and all new rules with their players. It is also the responsibility of the players to fully understand and play within the guidelines of our sport.

Suggested Videos/ Drills:

WHAT IS WATER POLO!

What is Water Polo Videos (for rules part)

Water Polo 2.0: Catch from Behind

Water Polo 2.0: Cross Face Catching

Water Polo 2.0 Swim with Ball Breast

Ball Handling: Somersault

Ball Handling: Ball Drop & Pass

Ball Handling: Foot, Hand, Eye Coordination

At Home workout - ball handling: Hand Transfers

At home workout - ball handling: Long Pass Technique

At home workout - ball handling: OYB wrist passes

Passing Drills: Bad Pass Drill

Passing Drills: Knee to Hand Step Out

Passing Drills: Man in the Middle

Offense: Absorb Foul & Move

Counter Attack: Tow Drill Finish with Legs in Front

Counter Attack: Dunk & Recover

Counter Attack: Counter Release

Tony’s Turns: Half Turn

Tony’s Turns: Backside Half Turn

Fundamentals: Swimming Ball in Hand

Fundamentals: Swimming Pick Up

Anatomy of the 6-8 Challenge