Common Field Hockey Formations and Roles

Common Field Hockey Formations and Roles

Formations:

• 4-3-3: Four defenders, three midfielders, three forwards — balances defense and attack.
  
• 3-4-3: Three defenders, four midfielders, three forwards — emphasizes midfield control.
  
• 5-3-2: Five defenders, three midfielders, two forwards — focuses on strong defense.
  
  

_________________________________________________________________________________

Roles Within Positions

Goalkeeper:

• Stops shots, directs defense, and initiates plays with clearances.
  
  

Defenders:

• Mark opposing forwards, intercept passes, and clear the ball from danger zones.
  
• Often overlap to support midfielders and launch attacks.
  
  

Midfielders:

• Act as the team’s engine, connecting defense to offense.
  
• Distribute passes, control possession, and track back to defend.
  
  

Forwards:

• Create scoring chances, press opposing defenders, and take shots on goal.
  
• Often specialize as strikers (goal scorers) or wingers (fast, wide attackers).