1. Score With Drag Flicks
When you play field hockey, you can use a type of push known as a drag flick. Typically, players use drag flicks during penalty corners or attempts to score as an alternative to a straight hit. Field hockey rules did not allow drag flicks until the 1990s, when the rules changed to allow players to raise the ball higher during play.
2. Handle Field Hockey Sticks With Skill
To execute drag flicks, field hockey players scoop the ball onto the shaft of their field hockey stick. The player pushes the ball across the field with a slinging motion, which accelerates the ball. The movement of the ball behind the body during the swing distinguishes drag flicks from regular flicks. When the player releases the ball, she may raise it with a flick of the wrist.
3. Field Hockey Rules Limit the Power of Drag Flicks
The ability to raise the ball during drag flicks powers the ball, but it also makes it dangerous. Many players put enough speed behind the push to rival the power of some players' hits. Once in the air, the ball has the ability to injure players, especially those on defense without protective equipment. As drag flicks gained popularity, many manufacturers like Grays International began selling field hockey sticks with increased bows, which added more power to the drag flick. To combat the danger, the rules now limit the curve of field hockey sticks.
4. Train a Drag Flicker
It can be difficult to execute the play when the ball is already in motion, which is why most teams use the move from a penalty corner. While most players can execute drag flicks, the level of success often varies widely. Many coaches appoint one person with the most skill to be the team's drag flicker. Whenever possible, the drag flicker steps in to take this shot. According to the rules, a coach cannot substitute players during a penalty corner. This means the drag flicker needs to be a regular player on the field.
5. Push the Three Step Move
The play to set up a drag flick must occur quickly to take advantage of the penalty corner. Professional teams execute the move in 3 seconds or less. To execute the move this quickly, teams use a three step move. The pusher moves the ball in to a stopper who stops the ball so the drag flicker can position it for the drag flick. The stop allows professional players to generate speeds of 74.5 mph.
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