
Racing to the ball and then keeping control of it are an important element of fieldhockey.What you need â In groups of six, divide them into teams of three. One teamwill line up on the 25 yard line, and the other team on the 50 yard line and theyare facing each other. The coach puts the ball in the absolute middle betweenthe two teams and then blows the whistle. Two pylons are placed about 10 yardsapart on both the 25 and 50-yard lines.Members of the two sides sprint towards the ball (using the proper footwork toapproach the ball), and the first side to get it goes on offense and the other sideon defense. The team on offense tries to control the ball long enough to dribble itbetween the other sideâs pylons.
This practice has no coaching points
This practice has no progressions
in more ways than one
A few weeks into the league season, poor first touches are costing teams the ball. Coach body shape, scanning and receiving on the move to keep possession.
Pre-season fitness fades fast once the league starts. Build conditioning into ball work and use rolling subs well to keep your squad sharp all season.
The first weeks of the season decide whether a junior or new player sticks with adult hockey. Here is how to keep them safe, give them a clear job and build their confidence from the very first bully.