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Lesson 3 - Reverse Stick Control and Stopping

Progressive Skills & Game Tactics

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Year 4

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Hockey

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Big Question

How can mastering reverse stick technique give us more control and options when the ball is on the far side of our body?

Learning Objectives

Keep possession of the ball in small groups using reverse stick control when the ball is on the far side of the body
Use the reverse stick technique to stop and control a ball effectively
Maintain possession and progress consistently through improved ball control

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate accurate reverse stick technique with correct grip and body positioning
Students will successfully stop and control balls using reverse stick in game-like situations
Students will maintain possession for longer periods through improved technique

Equipment & Resources Required

Hockey sticks

1 per student (30)

Check all sticks are appropriate size for Year 4 students

Alternative: Unihoc sticks, or improvised sticks for basic technique

Hockey balls

1 per student plus 20 extra (50 total)

Place extra balls in central hoops for starter activity

Alternative: Tennis balls for safer practice, or foam balls for beginners

Hoops

8-10 hoops

4-5 team hoops around perimeter, 2-3 central 'nest' hoops

Alternative: Cones to mark circular areas, or chalk circles

Cones

20 cones

Mark boundaries, goals, and practice areas

Alternative: Markers, spots, or improvised markers

Markers

4 markers

Create small goal approximately 2 metres wide

Alternative: Cones, benches, or painted lines on wall

Key Vocabulary

Reverse stick

A technique where the stick is turned over the top of the ball to control it while still using the correct side of the stick

Far side of body

When the ball is positioned on the opposite side of your body from where you would naturally play it

Position of strength

Body position where you have good balance and control to pass, shoot, or dribble effectively

Possession

Having control of the ball and being able to keep it within your team

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic hockey stick grip and ball control
Simple dribbling using correct side of stick
Understanding of basic hockey rules and safety

Current Skills

Reverse stick technique for stopping balls on far side of body
Quick decision making about when to use reverse stick
Improved possession and control in game situations

Next Steps

Combining reverse stick with different types of passes
Using reverse stick in more complex game situations
Developing reverse stick technique for shooting and tackling

Milestone Indicators

Demonstrates correct grip change for reverse stick

Successfully stops ball using reverse stick 7/10 times

Uses technique appropriately in conditioned games

Key Teaching Points

Right hand controls the stick rotation for reverse stick technique
Use reverse stick when ball is positioned on the far side of the body
Gentle touch with reverse stick for control, not power
Move feet to reposition into strong position after stopping ball
Look for reverse stick opportunities in game situations for tactical advantage

Common Misconceptions

Thinking reverse stick means using the back of the stick - emphasise it's still using the correct flat side
Believing reverse stick is only for emergencies - show how it's a tactical choice for better control
Assuming the technique is too difficult - break down into simple grip change and gentle touch

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter practice segments with frequent changes, clear boundaries and expectations, regular positive feedback

dyspraxia

Slower technique introduction, larger equipment for easier handling, additional practice time with support

autism spectrum

Clear routine for practice structure, visual schedule showing lesson progression, quiet zone available

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and clear verbal descriptions of technique, provide tactile guidance for grip change

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations with exaggerated movements, written instruction cards for technique points

physical disability

Adapted reverse stick technique for wheelchair users, modified equipment sizing, seated practice options

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting successful attempts out of 10 for percentage calculations, measuring distances for practice areas, angles of stick rotation

Science

Forces and motion in ball control, leverage and mechanics of stick rotation, body mechanics and balance

Geography

Spatial awareness and positioning on the playing field, understanding of relative position concepts

PSHE

Perseverance when learning challenging new skills, supporting others during practice, teamwork in game situations

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand where all students can see demonstrations clearly, move around during practice to provide individual feedback

Observation Focus

Watch for correct grip change, timing of reverse stick use, and safe stick handling throughout

Intervention Points

Step in when students struggle with grip change, use unsafe stick technique, or become frustrated with new skill

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate technique slowly multiple times, emphasise grip change clearly, show common mistakes and corrections

Verbal Cues

•'Right hand turns the stick over the ball!'
•'Gentle touch, don't hit it hard!'
•'Quick feet to get back into strong position!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m for full class, clear of obstacles and with safe boundaries marked

Surface Check

Dry, even surface suitable for running with hockey sticks, free from hazards or slippery areas

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all hockey sticks for damage, splinters, or loose parts before use
•Ensure balls are in good condition and appropriate for age group
•Verify cones and markers are stable and visible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Stick contact between students during practice and games
•Ball strikes to body, particularly when learning new technique
•Collisions during competitive game situations
•Loss of control during reverse stick practice

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established for all activities with adequate spacing
•Emphasis on controlled practice before progressing to game speed
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic practice
•Constant reinforcement of stick safety and awareness of others

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility during stick technique instruction
•Monitor high-activity areas during competitive games
•Intervene immediately if unsafe stick handling observed
•Ensure adequate space maintained between practice groups

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury severity, provide appropriate first aid, contact school medical support if required