|
Positions & Basic Skills
Four Positions: Goalkeeper (Goalie), Defenseman, Mid-fielder (Middie) and Attackman. More advanced teams will contain face-off specialists and long stick middies.
|
1)
|
Goalies - The No. 1 priority is to stop ball and to be the last line of defense. Requires courage, good reflexes, reaction time, and ability to think quickly. Goalie is the quarterback of the team Controls and dictates play of defensive unit. Calls out location of ball and presence of cutters. Tells teammates when to check opponents. Controls clearing process. Must be the most fearless and courageous player on field. Deals with dozens of high velocity shots during a game. Must be willing to absorb shots over any part of body. Must be a leader and command respect of teammates. Must keep his/her composure when mistakes are made and not be overly critical of him/herself or the team.
|
|
2)
|
Defensemen - Top priority is to neutralize opponents attack and prevent close range shots. Requires agility, quickness, good reflexes, ability to react quickly, and to calculate cutoff angles. Being aggressive, but always under control makes an excellent defenseman. Speed becomes important for long stick middies. Size helps, but is secondary to reactions, agility, mind set and speed.
|
|
3)
|
Mid-fielders - Primary responsibility is to move the ball from defensive end into their offensive zone and assisting in defense of the goal. Regardless of offensive contribution, mid-fielders must be good defensively. Characteristics of good mid-fielders are speed, stamina, hustle and determination. They need to possess good stick skills and have the ability to effectively play ground bars. Should be able to switch back and forth from offense to defense quickly and frequently.
|
|
4)
|
Attackmen - Primary responsibility is to score goals. Must be most proficient stick handlers on team or possess the basic qualities that will make good stick handlers. Must have great hand/eye coordination, having the ability to utilize both hands, and being adept at fakes and dodges. Quick feet, speed, agility, maneuverability and courage are needed. Must be able to take physical punishment from opposing defensemen and middies. Must possess great shooting, passing skills, and accuracy.
|
< | >
|
