doHockey

Field hockey

In development

Goalkeeper switches the build-up

Switch a closed side through the goalkeeper towards an open exit.

6 players · 10 min · 30 × 24 m

The animation shows one played situation with a decision and response, not a required pattern. Regains and restarts are marked schematically; stop unsafe pressure. Finishes use unoccupied practice goals with clear run-off.

Organisation

Goalkeeper K1 and three builders against two pressers. K1 only participates in grounded distribution and faces no shots. Two gates are on the far line.

Execution

A starts at K1 and scores by crossing an end gate in possession. B closes one side and may intercept; a regain ends the attempt, with no shots at K1. Restart out-of-bounds at K1. Give each builder four attempts; rotate B. A willing goalkeeper stays in that role only with suitable equipment.

Coaching

  • Show the return outside the pressure line.
  • The far builder stays wide as the ball returns.
  • Which exit opened after the switch?

Easier

Start with one presser; the second only guards a gate.

Harder

Let B choose the closed side at every restart.

What to observe

Count exits reached after a deliberate return, without a blind ball through the centre.

Equipment

Sticks, one active ball, spare balls outside the area and cones; mini-goals where drawn. Dimensions and duration are adaptable starting proposals.

Formation and position role

4-3-3 · Central midfielder

As central midfielder, create a visible connection between the back line and the next line. Move out of a screened passing lane and offer a new angle after a return pass.

4-3-3 · Goalkeeper

As goalkeeper, offer a safe return pass behind the ball, scan the free side and restart the build-up when the first forward route is closed.

4-3-3 · Left back

Create an open receiving angle on the left relative to the goalkeeper. Find the free forward pass; return the ball when pressure closes that route and offer width again.

4-3-3 · Right back

Create an open receiving angle on the right relative to the goalkeeper. Find the free forward pass; return the ball when pressure closes that route and offer width again.

3-4-3 · Central midfielder

As central midfielder, create a visible connection between the back line and the next line. Move out of a screened passing lane and offer a new angle after a return pass.

3-4-3 · Goalkeeper

As goalkeeper, offer a safe return pass behind the ball, scan the free side and restart the build-up when the first forward route is closed.

3-4-3 · Left back

Create an open receiving angle on the left relative to the goalkeeper. Find the free forward pass; return the ball when pressure closes that route and offer width again.

3-4-3 · Right back

Create an open receiving angle on the right relative to the goalkeeper. Find the free forward pass; return the ball when pressure closes that route and offer width again.

3-4-3 · Defensive midfielder

As defensive midfielder, offer a central outlet ahead of the back line. Scan pressure, receive open and retain goalkeeper support when the forward lane is closed.

Sources and creator

doHockey exercise · doHockey

  1. Spelgericht trainen

    Paul de Ruijter · KNHB

    Background principles. Background for the stated principle. Rules, wording, setup and animation were authored by doHockey; not a federation drill or endorsement.

  2. Game Understanding

    England Hockey · England Hockey

    Background principles. Background for the stated principle. Rules, wording, setup and animation were authored by doHockey; not a federation drill or endorsement.

Published version 1

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