Defensive Skills (Invasion Games)
When defending in invasion games such as AFL, netball, rugby, soccer, and hockey, positioning is very important. Defensive positioning is about staying between your opponent and the goal, using smart angles to guide them into less dangerous areas, and supporting teammates when needed through clear communication.
When teaching defensive skills in invasion games we teach children how to stay between their opponent and the goal and force their opponent to less dangerous areas.
Use KIDDO’s teaching vocabulary to help children develop these defensive skills:
Defensive Positioning (Covering):
- Ready: Stay between your opponent and the goal at all times
- Angle: Position yourself to force the attacker toward the sidelines or less dangerous areas
- Support: Be ready to switch or help a teammate if their player gets past them
- Communication: Talk to teammates to ensure everyone is marked
Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy playing together, so that your child will want to play together in the future—let the game be about laughter and movement, not just tips and advice!