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      Thinking Thursdays and lessons learnt from England Hockey (game play)

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can adapt tactics based on different scenarios

      Key learning points

      1. Move: passing the ball quickly from one side of the pitch to another makes it hard for defenders to reposition quickly.
      2. Think: movement off the ball when attacking needs to be into space to receive the ball/support teammates.
      3. Feel: persistence involves staying focused and composed, even when the team is behind or facing strong opposition.
      4. Connect: a good leader consistently demonstrates dedication and a positive attitude, inspiring teammates to follow suit.

      Keywords

      • Winger - an attacking forward player who plays on the left or right side

      • Hockey team - comprises of a maximum of 16 players with 11 on the field at any one time

      • Overcrowding - happens when too many players gather around the ball in a small area, reducing space and limiting passing options

      Common misconception

      It is best for lots of attackers to be near the ball so they have more chance of keeping possession.

      Overcrowding the ball limits passing options, reduces space and makes it easier for defenders to win possession, so attackers should spread out to keep better control.

      Teacher tip

      This lesson may be more suitable over two lessons or the conditioned game could be used at the end of a previous lesson. When playing full games, with full rules, make sure the goalkeeper is wearing all the protective padding and the defenders are wearing face guards for any penaly corner awarded.

      Equipment

      1 ball between 4, 1 stick each, 2 x goalkeeper protective equipment, 5 x short corner defender’s protection, 30+ cones.

      Content guidance

      Risk assessment required - physical activity

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Where is a short corner taken from?

      Correct answer: 10m on backline
      23m line
      corner of pitch

      Q2.
      Where should the front foot of the injector be in a short corner?

      behind backline
      next to ball
      Correct answer: pointing to target

      Q3.
      Where do you take a long corner from?

      the side line
      the back line
      Correct answer: the 23m line

      Q4.
      Who do you pass to with an auto pass?

      Correct answer: yourself
      anyone
      goalkeeper

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Which position is an attacking forward player who plays on the left or right side?

      midfield
      Correct answer: winger
      sweeper

      Q2.
      What happens if too many players surround the ball leaving very little space?

      Correct Answer: overcrowding, over crowding, over-crowding

      Q3.
      What does it help to do by using the width of the pitch when attacking?

      mark easier
      Correct answer: create space
      tackle easier

      Q4.
      What should you do if your team is losing?

      shout at teammates
      shout at opposition
      Correct answer: show persistence/focus

      To help you plan your 10 physical education lesson on: Thinking Thursdays and lessons learnt from England Hockey (game play), download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...