Learning Hockey:
Sprint ahead to score with a forehand run

Where the dribble is useful to keep the ball in motion, the forehand run is what’ll give you speed to get the ball closer to the opposing team’s goal. The player begins by getting into a running position. Keeping the ball to his right, he uses small taps of the stick to move the ball forward a few yards and back. It’s usually practised on the field by running from the goal to the 25-yard line and back.

It’s important to pay close attention to posture, foot movement and stick technique while executing the forehand run. Once you’re comfortable with the movement, add in a glance or look forward after every 1-2 taps of the ball. This will help you stay focused on the goal, allowing you to move steadily ahead while being prepared to dodge any defenders that come your way.

To step up the forward run technique, turn the stick and use the reverse to stop the ball dead in its tracks. Resume running immediately and continue this start-stop motion. Time your movements to coincide with a random whistle or similar mark, so your accuracy and reflexes steadily improve.

An important skill which is a variation of the forehand run involves tapping and moving forward without looking at the ball. The position of the ball should be such that it is still in your vision, through the lower part of your eyes.

The only sure shot way to master the forehand run is of course to keep at it. If you’re doing this in a group, spread out and maintain at least a 10-yard distance from each other for the forehand run relay. Use only one ball initially and as the players get better, they can each have a ball to practise with. The upcoming posts will cover more techniques on running with the ball, starting with changing direction.