Field Hockey Coaching Techniques

Field hockey coaching techniques are needed by every field hockey coach if you want to create a successful team of players who can win games and have fun while they’re doing it. Your field hockey players are there to learn a new skill, perfect their existing talents and build friendships with fellow teammates. A good field hockey coach will recognize the potential value in each player and utilize field hockey coaching techniques accordingly.

1. Get your team into shape. Field hockey can be a physically demanding sport. There is a lot of moving from one side of the field to the other, and your players will need to be fast. This means you need to condition them and prepare them for games. Speed runs and other endurance activities will help get your team into shape. Weight lifting can also be helpful to build power and strength.
2. Teach them the rules of the game. Field hockey might seem like a simple sport on the surface, but there are many rules, regulations and possible penalties that can come into play during the actual game. This might not be your player's favorite part of practice, but they need to understand the basics before they can try playing a real game.
3. Partner them off for drills. When you teach your field hockey players a new skill, such as how to properly hit the ball to make a goal, partner them off so they can practice this new skill. Be available for any questions, and watch each player practice so you can correct their forms.
4. Play real games during practice. Split up your team for mock games when you practice. Once all of your players have the basics of the game down, it’s important that they get some experience learning the rules and game conditions. This will help them better perform during an actual field hockey game.
5. Take your team out. In addition to being together during practice, take a little time to socialize with your team. This can be as simple as taking them all out for sodas after a good practice. When your players get to know you better, they will be more comfortable with you as their coach. Also, if they socialize with each other more, you will see more camaraderie and cooperation during field hockey games.