Mastering dribbling and passing is crucial for any field hockey player who wants to outmaneuver opponents and control the game. Strong dribbling skills help you maintain possession, while accurate passing ensures your team can execute plays seamlessly. Below, we’ll cover three field hockey drills that focus on improving your dribbling and passing skills.
Each drill is designed to help you maintain close control and deliver accurate passes, even under pressure.
Field Hockey Drills to Improve Dribbling & Passing
Cone Weave Dribbling Drill
This will help you develop the ability to navigate through defenders smoothly and retain possession of the ball.
How to Do It:
- Set up a line of cones about three feet apart.
- Starting at one end, dribble the ball in a weaving pattern through the cones using both your forehand and backhand.
- Focus on keeping the ball close to your stick and maintaining a low center of gravity.
- Repeat the drill 5–7 times, increasing speed gradually.
Keep your eyes up as much as possible. Practicing this drill consistently will sharpen your ability to change direction quickly without losing control of the ball.
Triangle Passing Drill
Accurate passing is the key to fast-paced plays and breaking through defensive lines. This drill helps you practice delivering precise passes and receiving them cleanly.
How to Do It:
- Arrange three cones in a triangle about 10 yards apart.
- Form a group of three players, each positioned at a cone.
- Player A passes to Player B, who receives the ball, dribbles around the cone, and passes to Player C.
- Continue passing in a continuous flow, focusing on smooth and accurate passes.
- After a few rounds, switch directions to practice passing and receiving from different angles.
Use flat, firm passes and keep your stick angled correctly to receive the ball without losing momentum. This drill builds confidence in passing accurately and efficiently during matches.
3-Second Pressure Passing Drill
This will help you improve decision-making and accuracy under pressure. In a game, you often have limited time to pass the ball accurately. Learn how to stay composed and make quick, effective decisions by adding this to your practice routine.
How to Do It:
- Create a small square using four cones, about 5 yards apart.
- Inside the square, one player acts as the passer and another as a defender.
- The passer has only three seconds to make a pass to a teammate outside the square.
- Focus on quick stick movements and accurate passes under pressure.
- Rotate roles after 5–7 rounds.
Practice with different pass types—push passes, slap passes, and aerials—to build versatility. Mastering this drill will boost your ability to handle high-pressure situations with confidence.
Elevate Your Game at Field Hockey Camp This Summer
Incorporating these drills into your training routine will take your dribbling and passing skills to another level. Would you like to hone these skills more this summer in a fun and positive environment?
Then you should join us this summer at one of our 2025 Revolution Field Hockey Camp locations! Sign up today and get ready to get even better on the field after spending just a few days with us!
