Direct or off the free board

Choose the passing route the defender actually leaves open.

4 players · 8 min · 18 × 14 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. Use grounded passes and low pushes; do not force a closed block or board route.

Organisation

Three attackers against B1 along one board. A1 and A2 occupy different depths; A3 offers a central recycle. All board routes must remain clear.

Execution

A scores when A2 receives under control beyond B1, directly or off the board. B1 freely chooses the route to close; recycle through A3 if the board is trapped. B1 earns a point for an interception. Restart deep after every reception; rotate B1 after 45 seconds.

Coaching

Check the whole board route, not just its contact point.
Keep the central recycle beyond B1.
Explain why direct or board was open.

Easier

B1 declares the closed route before starting.

Harder

B1 may change the closed route after a return; A2 adjusts.

What to observe

Record correct route choices separately from forced passes through closed routes.

Equipment

Sticks, one active ball, spare balls outside the area and cones; mini-goals where drawn. Use a safe indoor floor and suitable boards. Dimensions and duration are adaptable starting proposals.

Sources and creator

doHockey exercise · doHockey

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.
Playing with the boards
Heino Knuf · German Coaching Committee · FIH
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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