Team Defense

Hallmarks of Quality

All great teams play great team defense
All Seven defenders must share in the successes and setbacks of the defense. Defense is not a series of one-on-one confrontations.
Defensive pressure on the ball should be highlighted by good footwork and crisp stick checks. Defense is a healthy blend of body and stick. When in doubt, poke check.
Defenders adjacent to the ball must talk and anticipate backup situations. Remember: See the ball, see the man.
Defensive slides should be well timed and executed from the inside out, that is, picking up the opponents nearest to the goal first, then those on the perimeter of the field.
The farther removed your man is from the ball, the more you should sag (drop off your man toward the crease). However, keep your head on a swivel.
Assume a good defensive position and be under control when your man receives the ball in the open field. As he is about to pass, get that last poke check in and immediately step back.
Adjust your approach when playing defense on the crease; tighten up, talk, listen for “Check” calls, stay between your man and the ball.
Whenever possible, fight through, or slide under, picks, avoiding switching.
Communication (listening as well as talking), anticipation, and pride are basic ingredients needed to mold a solid team defense.