As a parent new to field hockey, it is important that you understand the different positions on the field to help your players decide which one they would like to play. Field hockey is a fast-moving sport with eleven players on the field. It may seem overwhelming to decipher which position is most suited for your player. This guide will help give you a breakdown of the different positions on the turf, their responsibilities, and their skills.
Forwards:
You can find forwards in between midfield and the opponent’s goalie. They are typically the people who score the most goals in a game. Forwards are also known to be called strikers. Their main job on the turf is to work together to head downfield and score. Great forwards are unselfish, move quickly, and create spacing and ball movement to help their teammates.
Midfielders:
Midfielders, also known as halfbacks, must be able to play both defense and offense as they are considered to be multi-taskers on the turf. It is important that midfielders have a high stamina because of their constant movement up and down the field. Midfielders must be ready to defend quickly if an offensive attack fails, while remaining vigilant to where the ball is.
Fullbacks:
Fullbacks are primarily defensive players. Their primary role is to defend an opposing forward and keep the ball away from reaching the goalie. A successful defensive stop will result in getting the ball back to the other side so the midfielders and forwards can score. A fullback should know where their opponent is constantly and support the midfielder when switching into the attack.
Sweeper:
Sometimes coaches will have a single fullback play close to their own goal. They are called a sweeper and are considered an extra defense since they will stay back behind the other fullbacks near the goalie. Their job is the same as a fullback, to defend an opposing forward and keep the ball away from the goal box.
Goalie:
Goalkeepers are arguably the most important position on the turf since they are the last line of defense before the opposing team can score. They must have quick reflexes and the ability to block hard shots with their bodies and stick. A goalie is also in charge of communicating with their teammates about defensive strategies. Goalies should focus on communicating with the fullbacks to help protect the goal.
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