On-the-ball Defence Tips
If you want to improve your defence then you need to start focusing on what you currently do and how you can alter or enhance your movements. We all know how important a good defender is, so we have compiled some tips to help you be the best you can be.
Positioning
A big component of defence is positioning. The better you can position yourself before the offense acts, the more chance you will have to guard the action. You need to understand where you are meant to be at all times and know how to get into that position quickly. Depending on the defensive scheme, your required position with change, so be sure that you know exactly what defence the team is in and what you should be doing in every situation.
- Don’t get caught out of our position and play catch up, be in the right place
- Move when the ball moves
- Correct positioning will allow you to take charges, close gaps and block shots
Anticipation
The more you can read the defence and anticipate what they are doing to do, the easier it will be for you to position yourself to play defence. Watch your opponent and recognise what they are about to do and then mentally and physically prepare for it. While we know that no one can read minds, body language screams a thousand words at once, so getting in tune with the repetitive nature of your opponent will help you get into the right position as quickly as possible.
Energy and Effort
When you hit the court, you give it everything you have. The energy and effort you bring as a defender has a great impact and with it being the only true thing you can control; we encourage you to give it your all. No matter how well you are playing on offence, and whether your team is winning or losing, remember to always give your best effort on defence and be disciplined in what you are doing. Your actions can change the game.
Final Defensive Tips
- Stay within your team’s strategy and don’t get caught out of position
- Focus on the actions in front of you
- Understand your own movements and use them to your advantage
- Keep your hands high on every closeout and have active hands both on and off the ball
Keep Up Your Training
Practicing on-the-ball defence work can help improve your skills on game day. Take the tips we have provided and get out there today. With focus, dedication and commitment you can become the expert defender your team needs you to be.