How to defend a tall player

Eleanor DurrPlayer, England

Hi Faye,

It is unlikely your daughter will be able to compete for an overhead ball if there is a significant height difference. It is therefore important she doesn't let the GS set up a holding position. She can do this by using a small foot base and constantly moving her feet around the shooter, making the shooter change her angles and position. You can see an example here.

Alternatively, I would suggest getting your daughter to force the GS high in the circle. This would mean getting behind the shooter and forcing her (without contacting) high towards the circle edge. Therefore it may be an easy pass in but it will be a harder position to shoot from and the centre court players can apply pressure too. 

It is important that your daughter tracks the ball through court and sets herself up early, making sure the GS is where she wants her, instead of getting controlled by the shooter. A small, fast foot-base is key within the circle. Your daughter might therefore benefit from these drills: 
- Agility and Accuracy - this movement will help your daughter practice her angles, coming on and off her shooter, working with the GD
- Agility and Accuracy Progression - this drill should help with your daughter's footwork moving around her player, but also the drive out for the ball should be sharp and fast like she is going for an interception or lose ball
- Getting around your player and Getting around your player progression - these drills will help your daughter practice getting around the shooter and how this feels

These drills are simple drills that require very little equipment and assistance so your daughter can even complete them at home.