Field Hockey Positions
By Renae Casey
Field hockey is a fast game that requires teamwork, skill and strategy. Whether you're new to the game or want to get better at it, knowing the field hockey positions is key. In this post, we'll break down the 11 positions on the turf, their roles and the skills needed to excel in each.
The 11 Field Hockey Positions
Una squadra di hockey su prato è composta da 11 giocatori: il portiere, i difensori, i centrocampisti e gli attaccanti. Ogni ruolo contribuisce sia in attacco che in difesa. Vediamo insieme come funziona.
Portiere
Role and Responsibilities
- Il portiere è l’unico giocatore autorizzato a usare mani, piedi e corpo per fermare la palla all’interno del cerchio di tiro.
- Their main job is to save shots, direct defenders and clear the ball out of danger.
Competenze chiave
- Quick reactions
- Good communication
- Agility and flexibility
- Fiducia
Attrezzatura
A goalkeeper needs special gear, leg guards, a helmet, a chest pad and a good goalkeeper hockey stick.
Difensori
I difensori impediscono agli avversari di segnare. Di solito ci sono 3 tipi di difensori nell'hockey su prato.
1. Terzini (difensori sinistro e destro)
- Posizionati vicino al portiere, i difensori centrali affrontano gli avversari e liberano la palla.
- They provide a defensive screen and support the midfield in build up play.
Competenze chiave
- Strong tackling
- Good passing
- Positional awareness
2. Sweeper (Optional Position in Some Formations)
- Positioned in front of the goalkeeper, the sweeper is an extra layer of defence.
- They intercept passes and pass the ball to midfielders.
Competenze chiave
- Great vision and awareness
- Good passing
- Defensive leadership
Centrocampisti
Midfielders are the link between defence and attack. They need high endurance and passing accuracy.
3. Centre Midfielder
- Often the most important position, the centre midfielder controls the game.
- They pass the ball, support both defence and attack and dictate the tempo.
Competenze chiave
- Controllo di palla
- Good vision and passing
- High endurance and agility
4. Centrocampista difensivo
- This player sits deeper in midfield to break up opposition attacks and provide defensive solidity.
Competenze chiave
- Contrasto e marcatura
- Quick decision making
- Positional sense
5. Attacking Midfielder (Left and Right)
- Positioned higher up the pitch, attacking midfielders create scoring opportunities.
- They assist the forwards in attack and make runs into the circle.
Competenze chiave
- Quick feet
- Vision for through balls
- Shooting
Forwards
Forwards score goals and press the opposition's defence. There are 3 main forward positions.
6. Centravanti (Attaccante)
- The team's main goal scorer.
- Positioned centrally, they score goals.
Competenze chiave
- Good shooting
- Quick reflexes in the circle
- Controllo di palla
7. Left and Right Wingers
- Positioned wide on the pitch, wingers use speed and agility to attack from the wings.
- They deliver balls into the circle and create scoring chances.
Competenze chiave
- Speed and agility
- Crossing
- Attacking instincts
Formations and Positioning
The formation depends on the team's style. Some common formations:
🔹 4-3-3 Formation – Balanced with 4 defenders, 3 midfielders and 3 forwards.
🔹 3-4-3 Formation – Attacking formation with only 3 defenders.
🔹 5-3-2 Formation – Defensive formation with 5 defenders for a solid backline.
Each formation affects how players move and interact on the field and the offensive and defensive strategies.
Which Field Hockey Position is for You?
Se sei nuovo nell’hockey su prato e ti chiedi quale ruolo sia adatto a te, prova:
🔹 Ti piace difendere e fermare gli attacchi? Prova a fare il portiere o il terzino.
🔹 Sei un buon passatore con tanta resistenza? Il centrocampo potrebbe fare per te.
🔹 Ami segnare gol e fare incursioni? Diventa attaccante!
Regardless of position, a good understanding of hockey tactics and teamwork is essential.
