Because of the similarities with indoor and outdoor hockey it is beneficial for the teams to practice indoor style games.
Two 6 a-side teams, 2 goals, half a pitch. Put down 2 lines of cones from where the short corner is pushed out from on either side of the goal.
Important: put down spare balls all around the outside of the pitch to allow the teams to pick up the nearest ball to where the ball rolled off, and continue the game immediately.
The rules for this game, as with indoor hockey, are no hitting and no lifted passes.
Tip:
The biggest mistake that players make is to run with the ball in confined spaces. This invariably leads to a loss of possession.
The better teams are the teams with the players that run off the ball, not with the ball.
in more ways than one
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.