- effective movement off the ball is crutical
- players actively need to post up to create space by accelerating away from a defender quickly to draw defender out of or into an area
Posting up Stages
- leading run made away from defender & post up towards ball carrier indicating ready to receive ball
- if received: open stick side, taking ball slightly in front before peeling strongly to left in a wide arc (rolling out) to face forward & continue attacking
- if not received: leads away from ball carrier, opening movement/ passing channels & look for another opportunity to post up
- make sure ball doesnt contact feet during rolling out
- on the move all the time, not static
- don't get too close to ball carrier during leading run
- stick should be used as a signal/cue to ball carrier
- timing is crutical
- high left elbow when receiving ball
- pre-scanning before receiving ball helps to best place 1st touch & identify possible options
in more ways than one
sportplan_netball
in more ways than one
sportplan_hockey
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.
Most tackles are lost before the stick goes down. Teach your defenders to channel, wait and choose the right tackle, and you will win more ball and give away fewer cards.
England Hockey's rule guidance for 2026/27 takes effect from 1 September. Here are the changes that will actually alter how you coach, and how to brief your squad in one pre-season session.
