Using the long pole while riding can help the clearing team move the ball across the field while also protecting against the fast break. The long pole should be positioned with purpose so the defense can react as the clearing team moves the ball.

Long Pole 1

When riding, the long pole should be the furthest player back and in the center of the field. This gives the defense a safety position behind the ride and allows the long pole to react to the movement of the clearing team.

If the clearing team gets the middie across, the long pole should cover and prevent the fast break. The long pole's position allows him to stay behind the play and provide support if the ball moves quickly across the field.

The key is to avoid getting caught too far forward. The long pole needs to maintain enough depth to protect against the clearing team's transition opportunity.

Long Pole 2

If the clearing team starts with the middie carrying the ball, use two attackmen to force the middie to pass. The goal is to force the middie to pass to the open goalie and then to the opposite defender.

As the clearing team moves the ball up with the defender, the riding team needs to lock on to the players identified in the formation.

Once the clearing team moves the ball, the long pole goes ball side.

This allows the long pole to become involved in the ride while still maintaining awareness of the developing clear.

The long pole should recognize where the ball is moving and adjust his position accordingly. The movement of the ball determines when the long pole changes from the safety position to becoming a ball-side defender.

The Main Idea

The long pole has two important responsibilities in these riding situations:

  1. Provide safety behind the ride.

  2. Move ball side when the clear develops.

Starting in the middle and deepest position gives the long pole time to read the clear. As the ball moves, he can adjust and help prevent the clearing team from getting the middie across or creating a fast-break opportunity.

The ride works together as a unit. The attackmen pressure the ball carrier and influence where the ball is passed, while the long pole reads those passes and adjusts his position.

The goal is to force the clear to make predictable passes while keeping the long pole in position to cover the next threat.