Restrict the space and play 4 v 4 or 5 v 5 or ideally 6 v 6 as u have a back 3 outlet shape and a midfielder to post into space and 2 high players to stretch width and height. Continuous matches in 3 teams. Sideline team gets feedback whilst resting , one team has to double up and work fatigued against the fresher side. Keep score. 3 mins per game.
Then expand the space if possible and work on a 40% press with 7 or 8 aside - deep defence strategy. Control the space the opposition wants to play in. A forward will be ready to pop out and pressure the ball carrier and realise when to drop back in if we are getting out of shape. Close inside passing lanes , step over from help side. Make opposition play in one area of the pitch and force them to recycle or give the ball away. If the ball is turned over the other side drops off to 40%.
Give each team a different work on area. eg double transfer, double team ball carrier, man to man marking.
in more ways than one
in more ways than one
Summer is the window that decides how your team starts in September. Here is how to build a hockey-specific fitness base with the ball, not just endless running, so players arrive sharp rather than shattered.
Summer is the one time all year players can obsess over their individual skills without a fixture looming. Here is how to turn the off-season into a genuine 1v1 and close-control upgrade.
Video analysis is no longer a luxury reserved for international squads. With a phone, a tripod and a free editing tool, any club coach can build a weekly review habit that transforms how their team learns.