FIH Top Coach Masterclass Series 4

Episode 7: Defending with a player down with Andrew Wilson

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  • Author
    Andrew Wilson
  • Level
    Advanced
  • Session Recorded
    27 May 2026
  • 2hr Session
Andrew is assistant coach to the Spanish Senior Women, Analysis Coordinator for the Spanish Hockey Federation and Head Coach of the Club Egara Men’s First Team
Physical conditioning by the junior world champions

Winning the Numbers Game: Defensive Tactics When a Player Up or Down

1.⁠ ⁠Analyse Defensive Structures in Numerical Advantage and Disadvantage

•⁠ ⁠Participants will be able to compare and explain appropriate defensive team structures when playing with a player up and a player down
•⁠ ⁠⁠Including adjustments to pressing lines, marking systems, space protection and ball recovery areas

2.⁠ ⁠Identify Key Collective Defensive Principles

•⁠ ⁠For example, compactness, communication, cover, balance and pressing triggers

3.⁠ ⁠Recognise Effective Individual Defensive Behaviours

•⁠ ⁠For example, body positioning, channeling, 1v1 defensive techniques, marking in the circle

4.⁠ ⁠Evaluate Decision-Making in Transition Moments

•⁠ ⁠Participants will be able to recognise how to adapt their defensive transition behaviours
•⁠ ⁠⁠For example, pressing with controlled aggression with a player up and focussing on delaying and getting compact with a player down
Spain Women - Pro League 2026