doHockey

Indoor hockey

In development

Pivot choice: turn or set back

Read pressure as a central receiver before turning.

5 players · 9 min · 16 × 20 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

A1 and A2 deep, N1 as central connector against B1 and B2. Two end gates. N1 stays inside the central box and supports A only.

Execution

A scores through an end gate. N1 may turn into free space; under pressure from behind N1 sets back and a deeper player runs through. B scores after a regain over the start line. Restart out-of-bounds with a deep player. Rotate N1 and defenders every minute.

Coaching

  • The pivot checks over the shoulder before receiving.
  • The set-back must be reachable without colliding runs.
  • The runner chooses the opposite side of pressure.

Easier

B2 starts outside the central box and enters after reception.

Harder

Both defenders freely choose pivot or exit coverage.

What to observe

Count appropriate turns and set-backs; turning quickly alone is not success.

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.

Formation and position role

2-1-2 · Central midfielder

As the connecting player, move out of the defender’s cover shadow, scan before receiving and select a free connection. Do not force the central pass when the outside route is open.

2-1-2 · Left back

On the left, create an open inside pass to the central midfielder and recognise when the route via the right or the board is freer. Immediately support behind the receiver.

2-1-2 · Left forward

Offer a passing angle on the left ahead of the central midfielder that differs from the right forward’s angle. Adjust your position to the chosen inside or outside route.

2-1-2 · Right back

On the right, create an open inside pass to the central midfielder and recognise when the route via the left or the board is freer. Immediately support behind the receiver.

2-1-2 · Right forward

Offer a passing angle on the right ahead of the central midfielder that differs from the left forward’s angle. Adjust your position to the chosen inside or outside route.

Sources and creator

doHockey exercise · doHockey

  1. 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.

  2. Indoor receiving

    FIH · 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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