School Field Hockey: Sideline Press and Trap
A 5v5 school field hockey game where the defense closes off the middle to push the other team toward the sideline and trap the ball carrier there with two players. Students work on angled pressure, using the sideline as an extra defender, and attacking quickly after a steal.
How to play
- Use a court about 44 x 22 yd with two small goals and cones marking a 4-yard channel along each sideline; teams of 5 (2 min).
- Walk-through (4 min): the first defender takes an angle that blocks the middle, and the second waits in the sideline channel; when the opponent enters the channel, both close in while the rest cover nearby passes.
- Game (2 x 6 min): a steal in the sideline channel is 2 points, a goal 1 point, and a goal within 10 seconds of a sideline steal 3 points.
- Switch teams each half, with a 1-minute break for each team to decide which sideline to push toward.
- Debrief (3 min): how did the first defender position himself or herself, and when was the second one late?
Rules
- The stick never goes above the waist, whether hitting or defending.
- In the trap, no hitting the opponent's stick and no body contact; only put your stick down in the way.
- When the ball goes out on the sideline, restart with a push from the line, opponents 3 yd away.
Variations
Easier
A 2-on-1 trap in the channel only, with no other opposition.
Standard
5v5 game with sideline steals worth 2.
Harder
The offense gets a neutral player in the middle, so the defense must close that pass better.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: is the defender who blocks the middle without much movement.
- Hearing impairment: the signal to trap is tapping the stick on the ground twice.
- Lower fitness: plays as the goal-side defender near the goal, without pressing up.
Learning goals
- Angle pressure to steer the opponent toward the sideline.
- Trap the ball carrier between two defenders and the line.
- Use the steal to attack before the other team gets organized.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Hockey sticks: 25
- Balls: 6
- Small goals: 2
- Pinnies: 13
- Cones: 16
- Whistle: 1
Teacher tip
Students tend to charge straight in, and the opponent escapes inside: stress the first defender's angle. Check that sticks stay low in traps, where players bunch up the most.
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