The charge is an advanced defensive play. The defender sets their feet in the path of the driver. The driver has to run into them. This is legal defense when done correctly.
What you need: Basketball. Two kids per rep (driver and defender). Half-court or full court.
Setup: Defender stands at the free throw line. Driver about 20 feet away with the ball.
How to run it:
- Cue: Stance, Slide, Mirror, Hands.
- Driver attacks toward the defender.
- Defender plants both feet firmly and gets in a low stance. Chest out. Hands behind the back (so the ref knows they didn’t reach).
- Driver must go around or stop. If they run into the defender, it’s an offensive foul.
- Do 5 reps. Then switch roles.
What to watch: Are the defender’s feet set before the driver arrives? Feet must be set. If the defender is still moving, it’s a foul on the defense.
If they’re struggling: Have the driver slow down so the defender has time to set feet. Do just 3 reps.
If they’ve got it: Driver goes at full speed. Defender must react quickly and set feet.