Quick answer
Field hockey has six main pass types. The push pass is accurate and quick, for short to medium distances. The slap hit is a faster sweeping pass from a low stance, and the hit is the most powerful pass, for long distances. Then there are three raised passes. The flick lifts the ball a little, the scoop lifts it with a shovel-like action, and the aerial is a high overhead pass over defenders. Each can be played on the forehand or reverse side, and the right choice depends on distance, time and the defenders around you.
Key takeaways
- The push pass is the foundation. Master it before anything else.
- Use the slap hit and hit when you need pace over longer distances.
- Raised passes (flick, scoop, aerial) beat defenders but carry more risk and stricter rules.
- Reverse-side passing is now a normal part of the game, not a last resort.
- At home, train push passes only. Hits and raised balls are for the pitch.
The pass types at a glance
| Pass | Distance | Speed | Main use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Push | Short to medium | Medium | Accurate passes with no backswing |
| Slap hit | Medium to long | Fast | Quick passes on the move, crosses |
| Hit | Long | Fastest | Switching play, free hits, clearances |
| Flick | Short to medium | Medium | Lifting the ball over a stick |
| Scoop | Short to medium | Slow | Lifting over a defender's stick in tight space |
| Aerial | Long | Varies | Over the top of a defence |
1. Push pass
The ball starts in contact with the stick, and you push it along the ground with no backswing. Because there is no backswing, defenders get very little warning.
- Technique: low stance, ball in front of the front foot, weight moving from back foot to front foot, follow through towards the target.
- When: most passes under 15 m (16 yd), and whenever accuracy matters more than pace.
- Home drill: 3 × 2 minutes of push and receive against a wall or Rebounder from 3–5 m (10–16 ft).
2. Slap hit
A slap hit uses a short, low swing with the stick close to the ground and the hands apart on the grip. It is faster than a push and can be played while running.
- When: passes over 15–30 m (16–33 yd), crosses into the circle, and quick switches.
- Where to train: on the pitch or a large outdoor area. Not indoors.
3. Hit
The full hit uses a backswing and the hands together at the top of the stick. It is the most powerful pass and the hardest to receive.
- When: long passes, free hits, clearing the ball out of defence.
- Watch out: a hard hit that rises can be dangerous play. Keep it low.
4. Flick
A flick is a push that lifts the ball. You get low, put the stick under the ball, and push up and forward. It is useful for passing over a defender's stick lying on the ground.
5. Scoop
For a scoop, the stick face is laid back under the ball and you lift it with a shovelling action. It is slower than a flick, which makes it good for small lifts in tight spaces.
6. Aerial (overhead) pass
The aerial is a high, looping pass that goes over defenders and lands in space. It is a powerful attacking weapon but needs good technique and an understanding of the rules, because the ball falls from height near other players.
Rules on raised balls and on giving the receiver space are strict, and they differ between age groups and competitions. Some youth leagues limit or ban aerials. Check your league's rules before you use one in a game.
Safety: practise aerials only on the pitch, with a coach, in open space and well away from other players.
Forehand and reverse-side passing
Most pass types can be played on the forehand or the reverse side (stick turned over, ball on your left). The reverse push and reverse slap hit are common today, because they save a turn and keep the attack moving.
Home drill: against a wall or rebounder, do 3 × 1 minute of reverse-side push passes from 3 m (10 ft). Start slowly; accuracy first.
Passes in indoor hockey
In indoor hockey, the ball is pushed, not hit, and raised passes are generally not allowed except in specific situations. The exact rules depend on your country and league, so check your league's rules. For outdoor players, a winter of indoor hockey is great practice for fast, accurate push passing.
How to choose the right pass
- How far? Short: push. Medium: push or slap. Long: hit or aerial.
- How much time? No time: push, because it has no backswing.
- Is a stick in the way? A flick or scoop can lift the ball over it.
- Can the receiver control it? The best pass is one your teammate can receive easily.
FAQ
What is the most common pass in field hockey?
The push pass. It's accurate, quick to play and hard for defenders to read because there's no backswing.
What is the difference between a slap hit and a hit?
A slap hit uses a short, low swing with the hands apart on the grip. A full hit uses a bigger backswing with the hands together at the top, and it is more powerful.
Can I lift the ball when passing?
Yes, with a flick, scoop or aerial, but raised balls must not be dangerous, and the rules on them vary by age group and competition. Check your league's rules.
Which pass types can I practise at home?
Push passes and receiving, on the forehand and reverse side. Hits, slap hits and raised passes need a pitch and supervision.
Is hitting allowed in indoor hockey?
No. In indoor hockey the ball is pushed, not hit. Check your league's rules for the details.
Related articles
- How to push pass in field hockey
- Slap hit vs push pass: when to use which
- How to make an aerial pass safely
In the US? The Rebounder, Skiller and Skills Zone are also available on Amazon.
