How to make someone into a WD?

Eleanor DurrPlayer, England

Hi Libby,

The main role of a WD is to limit the WA`s involvement within the game, particularly getting out for a centre pass and feeding the shooters.

Try get her to work on keeping the WA high and wide, so up court away from the circle edge. In the diagram attached, once the WA has released the ball the WD should step in and keep the player high and wide, so within the red cones. This will prevent the WA for being effective, keeping her away from the circle edge.

Also remind them to maintain an open body position, allowing them to see both the player and the ball. This means they should position their body at an angle so they are not flat facing their player, nor with their back to them. This position will enable them to see a wider view of the court and help them analyse play to time their interception perfectly.

When in possession of the ball, the WD should always back up on the third line in case the attack need help getting the ball into the shooters. Although they must ensure they back up ball side, so their defender (the WA) cannot tip or intercept the ball.

The WD should also help bring the ball out from a back line. For a new WD the most simple way to do this is by setting up on the edge of the circle ball side (the same side the GK is taking the backline). This will give the GK an easy option to get the ball out from a backline. The WD should then continue to help get the ball through court.

Hope this helps.

WA high and wide

This drill has no description.

WA high and wide

This drill has no description.