Hockey was first introduced in the mid-19th century, and today it is one of the most popular sports in England and throughout the world and is an Olympic sport.
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The Chief Executive of England Hockey, Sally Munday, has recently been announced as the new head of UK Sport. She has worked for England Hockey for 10 years, and during her time saw Great Britain’s women’s team win their first Olympic gold medal at the Rio Olympic Games in 2016.
Unlike some sports such as netball, hockey players do not have specific positions and instead play in formations – the same as in football. The formations are made up of attackers, midfielders and defenders.
Attackers
The most common formation is to have three attackers – one to the left, one to the right and a center-forward. The main role of an attacking player is to score goals as well as respond to and create opportunities during the game. Unlike football, there is no off-side in hockey, so if an attacker loses the ball to the opposition, they immediately become a defender as they try to regain possession. Players wanting to work on these skills can benefit from a hockey drill video.
Midfielders
Most hockey teams will play with three midfielders – one on each side and one in the middle. The players in this position will need to be the fittest, as they will often spend a game running all over the pitch. They play a crucial role in goal scoring, as it is their job to pass the ball to the attackers.
Defenders
Being a defender if not always the most glamorous of positions, but it is one of the most vital. Hockey teams will often put four players in defense – two to the right in the right half and right back positions and the same on the left. A defender needs to be able to stick to his opponent and understand how to mark effectively and intercept the ball. A defender is also supported by the goalkeeper and acts as a sweeper and should be ready to clear the ball away quickly. The horse betting offers online horse racing betting in NZ
Goalkeeper
A good goalkeeper needs to be brave, quick, agile, and a team leader.