¶ The Backs
¶ Overview
The Backs hold the center of the formation and support both the Forwards and Wings.
Their primary role is to:
- Maintain structure
- Support offensive progression
- Direct attacks through the middle
- Control possession and resets
The Backs have the most freedom within the formation to:
- Swim with the puck
- Reposition dynamically
- Redistribute possession safely
¶ Positioning and Movement
The displayed Back position represents their real-time location.
If a Back moves from position “A” to “B”:
- Their movement and passing responsibilities remain the same throughout the swim
This allows:
- Flexible decision making
- Dynamic positioning
- Predictable support for teammates
¶ Offensive Cycling
Backs should generally keep swimming while in possession.
However:
- They are NOT intended to be the primary offensive attackers
- Their role is to support progression and maintain structure
¶ If space is available:
- Swim forward
- Improve passing angles
- Pass around defenders to a Wing or Forward
¶ Zig-Zag Cycling
When strong resistance develops in front of the play, the Back with the puck (“Back 1”) should avoid forcing forward progression.
Instead, Back 1 should:
- Move laterally or sideways
- Draw defenders toward one side of the pool
- Either:
- Pass to a Wing, or
- Recycle possession to the other Back (“Back 2”)
¶ Back 2 Responsibilities
Back 2 should:
- Stay slightly behind the play
- Remain closer to the centerline
- Swim into open space at an angle after receiving the puck
- Create separation from defenders covering Back 1
If support from the Wing or Forward on that side is unavailable:
- Cut back toward or across the centerline
- Draw defenders again
- Recycle possession back to Back 1
¶ Purpose of the Zig-Zag Cycle
The Zig-Zag pattern is designed to:
- Shift defensive pressure laterally
- Keep the opposing team off balance
- Create open passing lanes
- Generate attacking opportunities for Wings and Forwards
Once space opens or pressure decreases:
- The attack can progress forward
- Possession may later recycle back to the Backs
- The Zig-Zag cycle can restart if needed
¶ Things to Avoid as a Back
¶ Avoid Getting Trapped with the Puck
- Keep moving
- Recycle possession early
- Avoid holding possession too long under pressure
¶ Avoid Double-Diving
Both Backs should NOT:
- Be underwater simultaneously
- Leave the center unsupported
Maintaining staggered support is critical.
¶ Avoid Surfacing Together
If both Backs surface simultaneously:
- Central support disappears
- Passing lanes collapse
- Counterattacks become more dangerous
¶ Avoid Forcing Risky Forward Passes
Avoid:
- Passing into heavy coverage
- Forcing progression under pressure
- Attempting low-percentage plays
Prefer:
- Safe resets
- Lateral movement
- Recycling possession