Field Hockey Strategies For Defense

The proper field hockey strategies for defense can add more checks to the win column for a team. The fast paced game of field hockey requires players to switch from offense to defense in the blink of an eye. Much like basketball, the same players go on the attack for goals and then defend the goal during the same game. While there are several schools of thought on defensive play, keeping it simple is often the best strategy.

1. Spread across the zone. The beginning of a proper field hockey defense strategy begins with covering the field in what is known as a zone. The five team players spread across the field, covering the defensive field area in a square formation, with one player in the center. Setting up the beginning part of this strategy requires that the players be quick on their feet and well versed in where they belong on the field.
2. Target the guards. Once the team is in the zone formation, the next piece of field hockey defense strategy is for the forwards on the defensive team to identify and approach the guards on the opposing team. After identification, the players should move into a one-to-one guarding position.
3. Cover the goal. With the forwards in a one-to-one mode, the next part of a field hockey defense strategy is for the remaining three players to join the goalie in defending the goal. Forming a semi-circular formation, this will assist in the blocking of slap shots.
4. Get aggressive. Once the field hockey defense strategy is completely in place, each player should aggressively attempt to steal the ball as the opposing players try to score.