Set Up
Bring the goals up to each restraining box creating a small sided game and split your group into two teams. On both ends, place 4 Offensive Players and 3 Defensive Players. IMPORTANT RULE – Players on both teams are NOT ALLOWED to cross midfield. The game will start with a defending team clearing the ball, starting with the goalie. The players on opposite side of field, must get open for a clean outlet/clear since their clearing teammates cannot cross midfield. The game plays as a 4v3 and the offensive must find the advantage opportunity to create offense. The defense must play player down, and stick to their principles as noted below, to protect the goal. Play for 2-3 minutes, and then sub everyone.
Coaching Points and Principles
- Clearing Principles – Work to get open, spread the field out
- Defensive Principles – Protect the house/crease area, keep sticks in passing lanes, disrupt the offensive play
- Offensively – Find the advantage whether its a 2v1 down the wing or up top
Progressions
- Add a 5th offensive and 4the defensive player to create a 5v4 game
- Make playing space smaller for younger players
