Defend with purpose. Play smart. Protect the team.
Defense isn’t just about stopping goals — it’s about working together, staying in position, and making it hard for the other team to find space. Great defenders don’t just react… they read the game.
These videos will help you learn the key defensive habits that make a big difference on the field.
🚫 First Defender Pressure
What it means: You’re the closest player to the ball. Your job is to slow the play and pressure the attacker.
Why it matters: It gives your teammates time to get back into position and prevents the attacker from having time to think.
Tips:
- Close down quickly — but under control
- Stay balanced and ready, don’t dive in
- Angle your approach to guide the attacker away from danger
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🛡️ Defensive Positioning
What it means: Where you stand on the field when your team doesn’t have the ball.
Why it matters: Good positioning makes the field feel smaller to the other team and limits their options.
Tips:
- Stay goal-side of your mark
- Keep your body between the ball and the goal
- Always be aware of where your teammates are
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🧱 Contain vs. Steal
What it means: Knowing when to step in and tackle, and when to hold your ground.
Why it matters: Rushing in can lead to getting beat. Containing gives your team time to recover and forces mistakes.
Tips:
- If you’re alone on defense, contain first
- Wait for help before going for the ball
- Make the attacker uncomfortable — but patient
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🧠 Communication on Defense
What it means: Talking to your teammates to stay organized and alert.
Why it matters: Talking keeps the back line strong and lets everyone know what’s happening behind them.
Tips:
- Use phrases like “I got ball!” or “You’ve got time!”
- Let others know when you’re switching or stepping
- Stay loud, even when tired
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🏁 Final Tip:
Good defense isn’t just effort — it’s smart positioning, quick decisions, and communication.
Pick one thing from this page and focus on it next time you scrimmage. Defense wins games, even if it doesn’t show up on the stat sheet.
