Ball-Side vs Far-Side Positioning
Positioning
Legend
- player
- defender
- ball
- movement path
How it works
Learn the positional principle of being ball-side vs far-side and when each position is appropriate during a game.
What you need
- field hockey sticks
- field hockey ball
- cones
Your focus
Correct positioning relative to the ball is fundamental to both attacking and defensive field hockey. Players on the ball side create immediate options; players on the far side create depth and width. Understanding both positions develops tactical intelligence.
Three players in a line 15 yards apart; ball on one end.
As the ball moves to different ends, middle player adjusts their position (closer to the ball side).
Coach calls 'ball side' or 'far side', player demonstrates the correct positioning response.
Add a fourth player; all three non-ball players adjust positioning simultaneously.
Goal
You're there when you're automatically on the ball side when possession is near your area and tracking back to the far side when it's switched.
Helpful cues
- Ball side: close and ready to receive
- Far side: hold width and be a switch option
- Your positioning is determined by where the ball is
Adjust the challenge
Make it easier
Strip it back
Walk through position changes before adding pace.
UpLVL it
Add the next challenge
Ball moves rapidly; players must reposition without coach instruction.No account needed
Build a practice plan
Add drills, keep the plan in this browser, then share a link with your staff or parents.This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.
This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.After every practice, UpLVL automatically surfaces the drills each player needs to work on most. See it for yourself.