Ver 1. Ball starts with the side of the zone with 2 x attackers. Aim is to pass the ball to the single player on the other side. Player follows their pass and continues.
Ver 2. All three players start with a ball and one player at a time must try to carry the ball across the zone. Only one player at a time, but from either side. Score the crosses - if a player is tackled they become a defender.
Ver 3. "Rugby Hockey" - attacking players start with a ball on one side of the zone. They must get the ball to the other side, but can only pass the ball backwards.
Ver 4. "Pivot" - 3 attackers start on one side with one player staying behind the starting line. 2 other attacking players cannot pass to eachother - must go back through pivot player. Add a small goal on opposite line for the pivot player to score direct from a pass.
1. Relies on fast movement of the ball from side to side to stretch defenders and decisive leads from the solo attacker. Defenders must hold a firm structure and communicate to close the passing lines.
2. Must communicate to decide who has the best chance of crossing. May want to always keep one player on the side behind the defence - easier to defend if all three are in front of defenders.
3. Rugby hockey - no forward passes - relies on good ball carries but offloading when taken into contact. Draw defenders in then outlet to space. Defenders can hold their defensive line as ball can't be passed forward. Quickly close opposition but don't dive in. Free hits for stick tackles (5m self take).
4. Use the free pivot to spread the pitch as wide as possible. Defenders can man mark but must be aware of direct goal.
in more ways than one
sportplan_netball
in more ways than one
sportplan_hockey
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.
