5 Essential Field Hockey Skills for Newcomers

Being a rookie field hockey player can be both exhilarating and intimidating. A field hockey player should acquire a variety of abilities, and understanding where to begin is crucial. These five fundamental field hockey abilities are often taught by club and high school coaches, as well as in summer field hockey camps, and are an excellent way for a beginner to improve their game.

1. First touch

It's critical to have a strong first touch and move the ball in the direction of open space. Receiving the ball and moving it to the right or left, for example, is an example of a good touch that will create space between you and a defender.

This will allow you to survey the field and plan your next move. Practice receiving the ball from various angles and locations on the pitch to improve your initial touch.

2. Leading

When it comes to getting into a favorable position on the field, leading is a valuable talent to have. Understanding the player on the ball and anticipating where the ball will go can help you lead better on the field while also allowing you to create space between you and the defender.

3. Passing

Accurate passing, regardless of position, can lead to critical plays throughout a game. You might wish to practice the various passing styles that are most frequent in your position. A striker, for example, should practice one-touch passing, while a midfielder should practice passing off the right or left foot.

4. Hit

A strong hit is an excellent ability to have in your position. The location of the head, foot, body, and ball all play a role in producing a forceful and accurate hit. It's critical to make sure your hip rotates, your body weight transfers forward, and your head is on top of the ball during a hit. This will improve the accuracy and power of your hit.

5. Tackle with a Flat Stick

Every field hockey player should be able to make a clean flat stick tackle on the ice. Being flat-footed and committing too early to the tackle can lead to a bad tackle, which can end in injury or a card. Simply be patient, wait for the ideal opportunity, and keep your stick down to make a clean tackle.

Working on these fundamental abilities in field hockey programs will help you take your game to the next level.

Bonus Tip:

Many new field hockey players are unsure which stick to buy because there are so many types, materials, and lengths to choose from that it can be difficult to know where to begin. Our top Nike Field Hockey Camp instructors advocate investing in a wooden stick that reaches the top of your hip bone. This stick will be the perfect length to begin with before deciding on your on-field position, and wood is a robust and flexible material that is ideal for beginners.

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