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Field Hockey: 9 Zone: Passive Defending

What a fantastic tool. I 've found a few drills that are unfamiliar,...

Wes, Rugby Coach

DESCRIPTION

- Pitch split into 9 zones (3 x 3)
- 6 vs 6
- Can only ever have one forward and one defender in each area
- Forwards (white) cannot dribble ball from one area to another
- Defenders (red) cannot make a challenge, only intercept passes
- Players should post between the different areas to move up the pitch
-If ball is turned over, drill continues, with the red team becoming the forwards and the white team becoming the defenders

COACHING POINTS

Rather:
- have forwards (white) constantly attacking until turnover occurs i.e alternating the goal being attacked
OR
- alternate the team that is attacking, so each team only ever scores in one goal
- Goalkeeper should be constantly talking to there defense

PROGRESSION

- Allow defenders to tackle
- Introduce rules (number of touches, non-verbal, maximum time spent in each box, must change box once you've played a pass etc.)

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OFTEN USED WITH...

9 Zone: No Pressure:

Conditioned Games

9 Zone: Full Game:

- Pitch split into 9 zones (3 x 3)
- 6 vs 6
- Multiple players from each team in one area
- Forwards (white) can dribble ball from one area to another
- Defenders (red) can tackle
- Players should post between the different areas to move up the pitch
-If ball is turned over, drill continues, with the red team becoming the forwards and the white team becoming the defenders

Conditioned Games

6 Zone: Passive Defending:

- 6 on 6 drill
- Split a half pitch into 6 sections
- A forward and a defender should be in each section
- Defenders can only intercept the ball (no tackling)
- Players must stay in there given section

Conditioned Games

4v4 Endzone Game:

Set-up the pitch as shown. Place one player from each side in the opposite End Zone.

Players have to try and get the ball to the player in the End Zone for them to then score a goal. Only the designated players are allowed in the End Zone.

Conditioned Games

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