This unit develops Year 8 students from individual technical proficiency through to strategic team performance in hockey. The pedagogical approach moves deliberately from closed skill practice to open game situations, building both physical competence and tactical awareness. By culminating in student-led officiating and tournament play, the unit develops leadership and self-regulation alongside hockey-specific skills.

Lessons in This Unit

6 lessons in this unit

Lesson 1

Ball Control & Dribbling
1h 5min

Big Question:

How can you maintain control of the ball under pressure while moving at speed and reading the game around you?

Key Objectives:

  • Develop the ability to control the ball effectively under pressure in game situations
  • Demonstrate safe dribbling techniques with head up to maintain spatial awareness

Lesson 2

Indian Dribbling and Push Passing
1h 6min

Big Question:

How can mastering stick rotation and precise passing give you control in competitive hockey situations?

Key Objectives:

  • Demonstrate proficient Indian dribbling technique with accurate stick rotation and ball control
  • Execute push passes with correct weight transfer, follow-through and body positioning

Lesson 3

Jab Tackling and Shielding
1h

Big Question:

How can you protect possession whilst recognising the perfect moment to win the ball back?

Key Objectives:

  • Develop the ability to shield the ball effectively from a defender using body positioning and stick control
  • Perform a jab tackle safely with correct timing and technique

Lesson 4

Attacking Skills & Teamwork
1h

Big Question:

How can creative partnership play help us break down defensive systems in hockey?

Key Objectives:

  • Develop attacking skills through creative partnership work
  • Demonstrate agility, balance, coordination and precision in hockey-specific movements

Lesson 5

Positional Play & Formations
1h

Big Question:

How can you use positioning and formation to create attacking opportunities and defensive strength?

Key Objectives:

  • Demonstrate effective play in different positions within a hockey formation
  • Develop spatial awareness and use of wing channels to stretch opposition defence

Lesson 6

Officiating and Tournament Play
1h

Big Question:

How can effective officiating and self-reflection enhance competitive sport and develop leadership skills?

Key Objectives:

  • Demonstrate respect for game rules and peer referee decisions in competitive situations
  • Officiate hockey games with confidence, applying rules consistently and making clear decisions