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How can I help U12 to hit the ball in a controlled way?

How can I help U12 to hit the ball in a controlled way?

I'm new at coaching and was looking for some help teaching u12s how to hit the ball Hard, but under control. Can you suggest any drills which I can use with children?

Hockey CoachCoach
ANSWERS
Paul CromptonPlayer, England

Hi Sally,

Accuracy is the always the key, then the better players get the harder they can hit it.

There are lots of good drills in the passing and receiving category but here is a one I like:

Push

DESCRIPTION
Grip: Hands apart but similar 'double V grip' to the hitting technique. Head: The head should be positioned over the right foot as the player starts to push the ball. The head will finish well over the left foot once the follow through has been completed. Ball: Almost a full stick length away from the body. The ball should start in front of the right foot and will be released when it has passed the left foot. Keep the stick in contact with the ball for as long as possible. A good follow through technique will see the head of the stick pointing at the intended target. On the move: Players should use the 'cross-over' step where the penultimate step is the right foot crossing behind the left foot. This motion allows the player to stay in a low position throughout the push. Keeping both feet on the ground when in contact with the ball will help the player stay balanced throughout the pushing technique, and will help the transfer of weight from right foot to left.

Push

DESCRIPTION
Grip: Hands apart but similar 'double V grip' to the hitting technique. Head: The head should be positioned over the right foot as the player starts to push the ball. The head will finish well over the left foot once the follow through has been completed. Ball: Almost a full stick length away from the body. The ball should start in front of the right foot and will be released when it has passed the left foot. Keep the stick in contact with the ball for as long as possible. A good follow through technique will see the head of the stick pointing at the intended target. On the move: Players should use the 'cross-over' step where the penultimate step is the right foot crossing behind the left foot. This motion allows the player to stay in a low position throughout the push. Keeping both feet on the ground when in contact with the ball will help the player stay balanced throughout the pushing technique, and will help the transfer of weight from right foot to left.
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