Hockey Session (Senior): Protect The Square

Protect The Square

Organisation

A 30x30 square with an 8x8m square inside, adjust the size depending on the age and ability of the group.

Intention
To score a goal the team in possession must pass through or receive inside central square. The defending team looks to win possession and score in any of the four target goals.

Link to 11v11

Forcing play and recognising the triggers to press.

Observation

In possession;

 - How do the team disperse to allow the team to play around and create gaps inside. (Playing through players).

- Supporting positions to create structure to play around or through.

Out of possession, the team strive to find the balance between screening to protect the central areas and pressing to win back the ball.

Progressions

 - Restrict the numbers of defenders allowed outside the central grid, this is also good for recovering to protect the space when you've been played around.

- Restrict or reward the number of touches attackers can take in the central grid i.e play out with 1 touch.