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Performance Environments

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Planning Decision-Rich Environment Sessions for Field Hockey Creating decision-rich environments in hockey training sessions is essential for developing players who can think quickly, make smart choices, and execute under pressure. These types of sessions help players improve their speed of play and decision-making, both of which are critical in competitive matches. What is a Decision-Rich Environment? A decision-rich environment in hockey training places players in game-like scenarios where they are required to make multiple decisions in real-time. These decisions could involve choosing passing options, deciding when to shoot, selecting defensive angles, or repositioning based on the play's flow. The goal is to replicate match conditions where players are constantly thinking and reacting. Benefits of Decision-Rich Training - using small-sided games. Faster Decision-Making: Players learn to think more quickly and accurately under pressure. Improved Tactical Awareness: Athletes de...
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Defensive Principles

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  Warm-Up Ideas Hockey is a game of strategy, speed, and teamwork, and nowhere are these elements more critical than in the art of defending and outletting. A strong defensive setup, paired with a seamless transition to attack, is the backbone of any successful team. In this blog, we’ll explore proven methods for effective defence and outletting, drawing on key resources and expert insights to help you elevate your coaching game. Understanding the Basics: Defensive Principles 1. The Role of the Defender Defenders must do more than just block shots; they are the architects of counterattacks. Your defensive line sets the tone for the entire team’s performance. As highlighted in the Canadian Hockey PDF , defenders should focus on maintaining structure, communicating effectively, and applying controlled pressure to deny space and opportunities. 2. Footwork and Positioning Good defence starts with solid fundamentals. Encourage players to adopt a low, balanced stance with their sticks on...
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PC Attack & Defence

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  PC ATTACK Roles and Positions: Injector: Delivers the ball from the backline into play. Stopper: Controls the ball at the top of the circle, stopping it for the striker. Striker: Takes the shot at goal or passes for a variation. Other Attackers: Position for deflections, rebounds, or secondary passes. Execution Strategy: Direct Shot:  The most straightforward strategy is where the striker hits or pushes the ball directly towards the goal. Slip Left or Right: The ball is slipped to another player positioned to the left or right of the stopper for a shot, aiming to outmanoeuvre the defence. Double Pass: Involves an additional pass to confuse or displace defenders, often resulting in a clearer shot on goal. Deceptive Moves: Including feints and dummies to misdirect the defenders and goalkeeper, creating better angles or an open player for the shot. Rebounds: Players must be ready to pounce on rebounds from the goalkeeper or defensive saves, often requiring quick reflexes and po...
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PC - ATTACK

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INJECTION STOP ROUTINES
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SCORING

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  WARM-UP Warm-Up Routine Dynamic Stretching (5 minutes) Leg Swings: Hold onto a partner or a fence for balance, swing one leg forward and backward, then switch legs. Side Leg Swings: Face your partner or fence, swing your leg left to right across your body. Lunge Walks with a Twist: Step forward into a lunge, twist your torso toward the leg that's in front. Alternate legs as you move forward. Light Jog and Agility Drills (5 minutes) Jog around the field: Start with two laps at a light pace to increase the heart rate. Cone Drills: Set up cones for slalom runs, encourage quick feet and tight turns. Stick and Ball Drills (10 minutes) Dribbling: Each player with a ball, dribbling in and out of cones. Passing Pairs: In pairs, players pass the ball back and forth while moving down the field. Sprints and Quick Movements (5 minutes) Short Sprints: From the goal line to the 23-meter line and back. Shuttle Runs: Set up markers at 10 meters, 20 meters, and 30 meters from the startin...
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POSTING UP - MASTERING THE MIDFIELD

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  POSTING UP - MASTERING THE MIDFIELD WARM-UP 1. Dynamic Stretching (5 minutes) Start with dynamic stretching to increase blood flow and muscle elasticity, reducing the risk of injury. Incorporate movements such as: Jogging : Light jog around the field to get the heart rate up. High Knees : Lift knees high while moving forward to engage the core and warm up the legs. Butt Kicks : Jog while kicking your heels up to your buttocks to stretch the quads. Lunges : Forward and side lunges to stretch the hip flexors and activate the legs. Open the Gate/Close the Gate : Lift the knee and rotate outwards and then inwards to loosen the hip joints. 2. Stick and Ball Skills (5 minutes) Incorporate the stick and ball early to get players’ hands and eyes ready for the game: Dribbling : Have players dribble the ball around, set up in a zigzag pattern. Passing Pairs : Players pair up and pass the ball back and forth while gradually increasing the distance between them. 3. Fun Group Competition (5 m...
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ATTACKING FROM MIDFIELD - CONSEQUENCES FOR MISTRAP

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  ATTACKING FROM MIDFIELD - CONSEQUENCES FOR MISTRAP  WARM-UP Pulse Raiser - Rollerball with a handball-sized ball. Set a 23m x 23m playing area. Use 2 tall cones as goals - 1 at each end in the middle.  When you have the ball, you can't move. Score from anywhere. The ball must not leave the Astro. MAIN SESSION Use both sides of the pitch. Either feed the balls as the coach or hand over the starting hit with another attacker as a progression can join the play as a supporting attacker on a successful control in the box or as a jump-back defender once the ball is played to the opposition. Build the game up with the addition of players in key positions. REFLECTION Review and Feedback (5-10 minutes) Gather the players and briefly review what was learned during the session. Provide individual and group feedback, highlighting areas of improvement and reinforcing good performance. End on a positive note, encouraging players to reflect on their performance and set goals for the n...
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