Goal: improve sweep hit, focus on ball-feet position.
Exercise:
* each side 2 teams, each team 1 ball.
* they try to get ball over back line by using the sweep hit.
* where ball is being trapped is where you play the sweep hit from.
* which team wins? then change opponents.
Sweep hit/ slap hit
Focus on:
- feet in running position
- play ball with shaft thus at least left foot 3/4 stick length away
- knees bent, back straight.
Rest:
* 2 hands together top of stick (if ball goes high always grip problem)
* stick on ground, hands 20/30 cm above ground.
* stick describes half circle around body = the sweep when ball is being played
in more ways than one
in more ways than one
2026 is the first full year with mandatory face masks for penalty corner defence. Here's how to train your defenders for the new equipment reality.
Move beyond drills and let your players discover solutions through play. The constraints-led approach is transforming how hockey is coached at every level.
From mandatory safety equipment to evolving tactical systems and player-centred coaching methods, field hockey is transforming. Here's what every coach needs to know for 2026.