Rides/Clears
7v7 (or 4v4 for numbers with 2 defenders, 2 attackers and 2 middies on each team) - One team starts by passing the ball around - On the whistle, they pass to the goalie, replicating a shot on cage - The goalie is now clearing to the team that was just on defense - The team that was on offense is riding the defense - Once the ball is at the other end of the field, settle it, and do it again going the other way (both teams ride and clear)
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Full Field Fast Breaks
Set up two lines of players at opposite ends of the field, with a goalie in each net, three attackmen, and three defenders at each end setup for a fast break (Attack in L shape, Defense in triangle). The drill begins when the goalies at both ends throw an outlet pass on the run to the line on their right (change to left as you see fit). The midfielder gets the outlet and pushes the 4v3 fast break, while the other line sends a chaser to the ball carrier. The drill continues until the fast break results in a shot or defensive stop.
Waterfall
4 lines, 2 on each side of the field (full field drill), at the 20's and 40's, passing across the field all the way down. Start with a clear and end with a shot. Can progress to place defense along field in the middle.
Full Field Clearing Drill
Setup: Have 2 lines of defense on either side of the goalie, 3 middies near the center circle, and 2 lines of attack on the other side of the field near the elbows. - Ball starts with the goalie for a clear to the 2 low defenders. - The defense that doesn't get the ball is is streaking up the field towards the middle to receive it. - Once they receive it, the midfielders are cutting and asking for it - Once the midfielders receive it, the attackers are staying wide and asking for the ball - Can then get into a slow break to finish Focus on inside outside inside transition
Gone in 60 Seconds
GONE IN 60 SECONDS DRILL: Full field 3 Attackman on each side 3 Defenseman on each side Everyone is moving fast Ball will start as a GB in the middle of the field EVERY SUB IS MADE THROUGH THE SUB BOX 2 Middies closest to the box sub after their offensive possession Far side middies never sub We are up and down fast Objective is to clear fast and catch the opponent in an unsettled situation
5v4
Work 5v4 situations in the half field. 5 offensive players vs 4 defenders. Coach starts play with a ground ball or pass. Play to a goal, save, clear, or whistle. Variation: Flip it — 4 offensive players vs 5 defenders. Defense clears all saves or takeaways. Add passing requirements.
Top and Bottom Give and Go
Practice the give-and-go from both X and the point. Two lines — one at X and one at the top of the box. Coach or feeder on the wing. Top player feeds the wing and cuts to the hole for a return pass and shot, then goes to the X line. X player feeds the wing and cuts upfield for the return, turns for a jump shot, then goes to the top line. Variation: Change locations. Add soft defense to force cuts behind or feeds ahead.
Handling Defensive Pressure
Teach players to handle defensive pressure, work for the ball, and create turnovers under time constraints. 6v6 in the attack zone. Offense holds possession for 6 minutes without leaving the box. After 45 seconds, add a 7th defender and work to double-team the ball. Variation: Shrink the zone with cones, remove offensive players, or use the goalie to double behind the cage.
1v1 Scramble or Recover
Teach decision-making in scramble and recovery situations. Set up 3 groups across the half field, each with an offensive and defensive line. Offense starts with the ball. On the whistle, pairs go 1v1 standing side by side. The offensive player presses to the cage, looking to change direction or accelerate past. The defender works to recover to the hole or get a takeaway. Recovering to the middle is the priority for the defender. Rotate through each group. Variation: Change starting locations for each group.