Your first touch

Receiving on the Fore stick

The intention of players when receiving the ball on the fore stick, is to control the ball with a one touch receiving technique. This allows a player to undertake their next movement without delay or undue pressure. During the game players will be under pressure from opponents and need to be confident that they can receive the ball without focusing unduly on the execution of the skill allowing them more time to make decisions as to their next move in relation to their opponent.

Receiving from Behind on the Reverse

When receiving from behind on the reverse moving forward, the same left hand grip is used as for dragging the ball left to right when Indian dribbling. On the reverse side the player puts their stick in line with the ball prior to receiving.

Receiving Overheads

Ideally a player wishes to receive the ball at approximately chest height towards the right side of the body (forehand side). The player attempts to “catch/cushion” the ball (soft right hand), allowing it to drop to the ground without the ball being propelled forward. The aim is to bring the ball to ground quickly to a position allowing control.

 

Your first touch – basic forehand receiving

With basic forehand receiving, feet apart, left foot a little in front. Stop the ball in front of the body.

Your first touch – forward receiving

Three things are important

  1. Because we are running towards goal, it is important to make sure your feet are pointing towards the goal
  2. When receiving, let the ball roll past the body and receive in front of your body so you can continue running towards the goal
  3. Make sure the stick is there before the ball comes

 

Your first touch – receiving

As a team sport, receiving is one of the most important skills. Working on how you receive is key to improving as a player. Three things you are interested in when receiving:

  1. Get the ball on your stick and under control as quickly as possible
  2. Receive the ball in a position where we can maintain our vision so we can see the play unfolding in front of us and so we can see the options we have
  3. Have your body in a position where we can execute our next play very quickly

Your first touch – open receiving

The most important thing about open receiving is where you arms are and your ability to move on with the ball. When receiving, let the ball roll with the stick so you have forward motion. The positioning of your shoulders are very important, when you receive, turn your shoulders so they open up in the direction you want to go.
 
When receiving open, let the ball roll a little bit further as it will allow you to go further much faster. When receiving from the left, allow the ball to move past your left foot and on to the right foot. Before you receive, have your feet pointing in the way you want to go (once you see the ball coming, turn your feet).

Your first touch – overhead receiving

The height of your stick is really important and the position of your right hand and the stick should be shoulder height allowing you to look over your stick so you can see the ball coming. If the ball comes too close you can step forward or if it comes behind, you can step back. Your right hand needs to be about halfway through the stick, don’t go too low as this will mean you will not have enough control on receiving. It is most important you do not remain static as just sticking your arms out will mean you do not have control.