The trend in modern hockey is to employ a zonal system of defence. This system is generally used when you have the opposition in their own half, and preferably on one of the sides of the field. E.g.: 16 yard hit. 

In employing a zonal system, the entire defensive team aligns itself according to where the ball is in relation to the most dangerous pass, which could be available to the opposition. Normally this would be a pass directly into the middle of the field, which allows the opposition to then dictate the play. The zonal system should allow the opposition a square or backwards pass, but once this pass has been made the defence should quickly realign them selves with the new dangerous pass options available to the opposition. Is crucial that all 10 defensive players are away of their roles at all times, as any gap in the "wall" could have disastrous consequences.

If this system is done correctly, the defending team can push forward as a unit with little concern as to the opposition strikers movements behind them, as a ball should not be able to find its way through.

The biggest key to a successful zonal system is communication, and this starts with the keeper. The players behind call the players in front into the correct lines. The centre back and centre midfield are pivotal roles in this communication system. The players up front are under the obligation to place the ball carrier under immense pressure, thus resulting in an ineffective or unsuccessful pass. If these players up front try to actually win the ball in a tackle, they will more than likely give away a free hit, and the whole process must start again, whereas if the ball carrier is made to pass the ball under pressure, there is a strong likelihood that it will be intercepted by the midfield who are waiting behind.

From here the counter attack can be sprung. This system brings about opportunities for many attacks, as you win the ball in positions higher up in the field. The opposition will also be stretched defensively as they try to find a way out of the "press".

The key to a successful side is to attack using the full pitch and defend in as small a space as possible. By closing the oppositions' space when they are in possession, closes down the angles and options they have available to them. If they try to carry the ball out of this position, it is important that we try to channel the ball carrier onto a second defenders stick to make the tackle. If the first defender dives in, it is very likely that the ball carrier will win the hit and thus obtain the space and time he was looking for. It is crucial that both defenders know that they are looking for this double defence and work accordingly.

Reasons for the Zonal Defence:

1. To place the opposition in areas of the pitch with very few options
2. Be able to win the ball higher in the pitch
3. Avoid the defenders chasing needlessly after opposition forwards.

A coach once told me that by using a small amount of mental energy, you save yourself a huge amount of physical energy. I.e.: More you think the less you have to run, thus saving yourself energy for when it is actually needed.

The system does take time to perfect, and the keys are to communicate well, and react quickly to situations. I call this an "Allplay", as all 11 players are involved, and if 1 person is not aware or fails in his role then the opposition can find a way out of the pressurised situation. There is no place for man-to-man marking in this system, except if the attackers near the defensive 25-yard line. Here a lot of teams will now change to the man-to-man system, as before communication is the critical part of the equation to ensure a successful transition.

Before implementing these systems in a game it is essential that all players are comfortable in their roles and it is also wise to run through the various scenarios on a coaching board, to drive the points home.

1. Key issues to remember:
2. 11 player defence with all being aware of their specific roles
3. Pressure from the players up front
4. Alignment from the players behind
5. Stepping up of the players behind to make a tackle or intercept a pass
6. Communication

Yours in Hockey

Greg Nicol
October 2001