SAVVY
& CUNNING
by Jack Harrold
This is a mistake for two reasons. First, you are essentially giving up on plays made out in the corner. Secondly, defenders are tasked to “mark” you. If they are playing their position correctly, you will bring them closer to the net giving the opposition’s defense another variable with which to stop your team.
Speaking of “marks”, Jakubowski has more advice on this, “Remember, your mark is marking you, not the other way around. Don’t just stand there, make them constantly look for you. If you can, keep their eye off the play and on you. This can get you the jump on the ball. If the defender doesn’t watch you, find an open spot.”
As a team, the full forwards must work together, and they have an immense area to cover. If the center moves “up” field, the corners should stay low, and vice-versa. Keep moving around and adjust as your teammates move. This keeps the defense guessing and opens up shooting lanes.
Gaining Possession
Once you have spread the defense out and have anticipated where the play will be, it’s time to gain possession of the ball. “If you can’t gain possession,” states Tater, “ You have no chance.”
photo credit: Kerry Leonard
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