The purpose of this page is to create a shared understanding among the team of the language that we use. 

Describing the Field

Counter-attack zone: The area of the field from about 5-15 yards on top of our 18 when we are playing a low-block where we want to regain possession of the ball so we can effectively counter-attack. 

Horizontal: From sideline to sideline on the field. This is often used in reference to switching the field.

Scoring Zone: The area in front of the goal that is the width of the six to the height of the 18. It is the area on the field where the overall majority of the goals are scored. 

Vertical: Up and down the field from one goal to the other. This is often used in reference to the first pass in a counter-attack. 

In-Possession Action

Drop pass: This pass is similar to an escape pass, but instead of escaping pressure the focus of this pass is creating an attacking opportunity. The player with the ball frequently gets the ball in the attacking half or especially the attacking third and feels pressure on his back. He drops the ball back to a teammate who is facing the goal. Ideally this leads to a shot.

Escape pass: A pass made by the player with the ball and a defender on his back actively pressuring him. He passes the ball away from the pressure. This pass frequently occurs in our defensive third when one of our defenders gets the ball.

Out of Possession Action

Contain: A manner of individual defending where you prevent the opponent with the ball from dribbling past you. 

Double team: When the out of possession team has two players aggressively pressure the opponent with the ball with the purpose of regaining the ball.