
Set up a small pitch with a single goal and 4 "gates" made up of cones or throwdowns. Small sided teams, attackers versus defenders + GK Attackers score 2 points for a goal, 3 points for a goal scored by deflection. Defenders get 1 point every time the ball goes through one of the gates in any direction, by any means.
Defenders score by channeling attackers out to the sides or clearing ball down the wing. Attackers need to beat the GK and get extra points for deflections. Change relative size of teams or add scoring zone or D to influence result. Change number/size/position of defenders gates to put emphasis on different parts of the game.
This practice has no coaching points
This practice has no progressions
in more ways than one
2026 is the first full year with mandatory face masks for penalty corner defence. Here's how to train your defenders for the new equipment reality.
Move beyond drills and let your players discover solutions through play. The constraints-led approach is transforming how hockey is coached at every level.
From mandatory safety equipment to evolving tactical systems and player-centred coaching methods, field hockey is transforming. Here's what every coach needs to know for 2026.