
Split into two teams of 6 - team blue and red - with one player acting as the 7th player for both teams (wearing a different coloured bib, or a specific shirt colour). Set up a large box using the baseline and the 23m line, and set up cones about 10-15m from the side line. Team blue will try and pass the ball to each other inside the box while the red team tries to get the ball off them. The blue team can use the 7th man (in green) as an additional player. When Red either gets the ball or Blue loses the ball outside the box, it is a turn over. Now Red tries to keep possession, and the 7th man now is a player on the Red tea,.
How well players can control the ball under pressure Accurate passing in a small space Drawing and passing Maximising the space - using the width and length of the box to spread out the defending team Movement off the ball - players should not be static, but always leading and moving to receive a pass Can make a time limit of the player only holding the ball for 3s to maximise movement off the ball
This practice has no coaching points
This practice has no progressions
The best hockey players in the world do not just react faster; they scan more frequently and process information before the ball arrives. This article explores the science behind scanning, how to coach spatial awareness as a habit, and practical drills that force players to lift their heads and read the game.
In hockey, you can only score from inside the circle. Getting the ball into the D with purpose and creating genuine shooting chances is the hardest part of attack. This article examines the different types of circle entry, why entry angle determines shot quality, and how to train your team to penetrate the most congested area on the pitch.
The best teams don't just press - they press at the right moment. Here's how to train your players to read the cues.