The new rules - what will UK coaches be focussing on?

Bram van Asselt, England

The coaches will be working more on Fitness, which will play an even bigger part in the game now the self pass is introduced. Also because the ball is not allowed to be hit direct in to the circle and no player is allowed within 5 m of the ball in the attacking 23m area this can make teams defend differently, they don't all have to stand between the ball and the goal to stop the direct shot so for instance some could stand stopping the back pass from a long corner. Another area that is going to be changing is the making of deliberate fouls to stop the progress of an attacking team on the break in the hope of giving your team a chance to get back. There will need to be more emphasis on channelling and interception all over the pitch. Any way early thoughts Let me know what you think. Bram

sue shelswellOther, New Zealand

Hi Bram - the new rules we find make for a much faster, and better game. At all levels the 'quick take' often means interference by an opposition player less than 5m away - umpiring is focusing on insisting that an early take means the oppostion cannot attempt to 'be involved', but there are issues with that interpretation. For my squad, NOT bringing the ball to the 16yds 'spot' on back line balls and circle infringements is instrumental to quick getaways. The fact you can 'auto' to change direction means teams setting up screens are left standing if you 'auto' from the baseline (or wherever) and change the whole swing of the game while your opposition is lining up for an already gone 16yd hit. I believe quick thinking players will be key to how hockey develops - the ability to make early, effective decisions will be paramount to success. Rapid, quick takes will lead to high quality, exciting attacking ( and therefore defensive) play - will kae for a better spectator (and player) sport.