3-3 Zone Ride

The 33 Zone Ride is a defensive strategy designed to slow down the opponent’s transition and give your team time to settle into defensive positions. While turnovers are a bonus, the primary goal is to delay the opponent's clear and maintain control of the pace of play.

Core Objectives

1. Slow the Transition:
   The ride isn't about immediately winning the ball; it's about making the opponent work harder to move it up the field.

2. Control the Field:
   Force the ball to one side, using the sideline as an extra defender.

3. Protect Against Fast Breaks:
   Limit options for quick transitions, especially through the middle of the field.

Setting Up the 33 Zone Ride

Initial Pressure

• One attacker pressures the goalie, forcing them to clear to one side (right or left).

• The attacker positions themselves near the goal circle with their stick up to occupy space and funnel the ball to the outside.

Rotations Based on the Clear

• If the ball is cleared to the left, the attacker who pressured the goalie drops back into the space near the restraining line.

• Another attacker shifts over to set a double team near the sideline.

• The goal is to contain the ball within one-third of the field and prevent it from moving back to the middle.

Field Division and Roles

The field is divided into three zones:

• Left third

• Middle third

• Right third

Low Attackers

• Two low attackers focus on protecting the middle of the field to prevent fast breaks.

• One low attacker pressures the goalie, while the other defends the space near the 12M to 15M mark.

• If an opponent enters their zone, they mark them tightly rather than just standing in space.

High Attackers

• Positioned 4-5 yards inside the restraining line, high attackers pinch slightly toward the middle to funnel the ball toward the sidelines.

• Forcing the ball to the outside reduces the opponent's passing options and limits fast-break opportunities.

Midfielders

• Positioned just beyond the restraining line, midfielders adjust dynamically to the ball's movement.

• They are responsible for reacting quickly to shifts and maintaining communication with teammates.

Key Defensive Actions

1. Shifting and Bumping:

   • As the ball moves, all players shift toward the ball.

   • The weak side (opposite the ball) rotates into open spaces to maintain balance.

2. Using the Sideline:

   • The sideline becomes an additional defender. Keep the ball on one side to simplify the defense’s responsibilities.

3. Dealing with Back Passes:

   • If the opponent passes the ball backward (e.g., to the goalie), allow it. This forces extra passes, buying more time to reset.

Communication and Adjustments

• Constant Communication:
  Players must call out shifts and ball movement.
  Example terms: “Ball’s out!” or “Shift left!”

• Scouting and Game Planning:
  Adjust positioning based on the opponent’s tendencies and strengths.

• Reacting to Passes:
  Every pass changes responsibilities. Players must remain aware and ready to rotate.

Phases of the 33 Zone Ride

1. Setup:
   Low attackers pressure the goalie and block central passing lanes, while high attackers and midfielders position themselves strategically to funnel the ball.

2. Engagement:
   Once the ball is cleared, attackers set doubles near the restraining line or sideline, and midfielders rotate to cover potential outlets.

3. Containment:
   The defense works to keep the ball trapped on one side of the field, forcing difficult passes and limiting options.

Why the 33 Zone Ride Works

The 33 Zone Ride combines strategic positioning, communication, and patience to control the pace of the game. By funneling the ball to the sideline and forcing extra passes, your team gains valuable time to establish a solid defense while reducing the opponent's scoring opportunities. With disciplined execution and continuous communication, this ride can be a game-changer.