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Many more tips coming.... MIDFIELD Play both sides of the ball To be an effective midfielder, you must be able to play offense and defense. Of course there are "defensive specialists" but it is not always possible to get those players on the field during transition. "Up field foot" When playing defense against a dodge from up top, do not "square up" or play with your shoulders facing the dodger and your back to the goal. If defending a top right dodge, put your left foot or "up field foot" even with the dodgers downfield foot(reverse this for the top left dodge). You should be facing the sideline. Force the dodger into the alley by playing high and not allowing him to cross the middle of the field or "sweep". NEVER ALLOW THE DODGER TO CROSS THE MIDDLE OF THE FIELD. "Drive out" When playing defense, always drive the dodger away from the goal or out to the exteriors of the field. "Learn the Split" The split dodge is a great dodge that EVERY midfielder should be made to master. The split dodge is an "open field" dodge meaning that you need to be out on the wing or driving in from behind if inverted. Move directly at the defender and get about two stick lengths away(the defenders stick length) If beginning right handed, step at a diagonal towards your right with your right foot. Watch your defenders waist if it moves at you, you have him right where you want him. As soon as your right foot touches, plant and drive hard to your left bringing the stick to your left hand. You must "sell" the fake when your head and shoulders. You want him to believe that you are going to stay with your right. Be sure to drive past your defender not simply away from him. Remember to the "fast 5 out", the 5 yards after you pass your defender should be when you are moving at top speed, DO NOT SLOW DOWN. You want him to be behind you as you complete the dodge. Shooting on the run You must master shooting on the run. See the Shooting section. Learn to use combination dodges One effective combination dodge is the Split or Same Side Split w/ Freeze dodge. This takes a lot of practice but is a great way to be your man and also the slide. You can "freeze" the slide defender to free your hands for either a shot or pass. Learn the "pull pass" This is a great way to move the ball opposite without having to roll away from pressure. If dodging and a slide comes out, as soon as you see the slide defender move, step away or back and "pull" the pass across your body to an outlet opposite. This skill takes a ton of practice but is extremely valuable to an offense.
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