The 8M can be a huge part of the game. A few more converted opportunities on offense, combined with stopping a few more defensively, can make a real difference.

This strategy focuses on offensive options, shooting, and defensive strategies around the 8M.

Offensive Strategy

When setting up for an 8M, always have at least one player ready to compete for the ball at the end line.

Once the ball is secured, look around the 8M for an easy 1v1 or 2v1 opportunity.

The ball carrier should pick up the ball, look around, and identify where the 2v1 is before making the next play.

A simple give-and-go can also create an easy opportunity.

Take an Angle

Avoid running straight down the middle and shooting from the same position.

Instead, make the goalie move.

One option is to drift away from the defender on your stick side. This creates space for your stick and forces the goalie to take a step.

Another option is to slice across, using your body to eliminate the stick-side defender and protect your stick.

The important part is taking an angle and getting the goalie to move.

Deception

An outside shot can be effective when the player has the ability to shoot with power and control.

But don't become predictable.

A player can set up like she is going to take an outside shot, then use a hitch or wind-up to pull the defense out before going around them.

The more options a player has, the harder she is to defend.

8M Shooting

Teeter Totter

The teeter totter uses the hands to make the goalie think the shot is going high before snapping the ball down low.

As players improve, the movement can become more subtle, developing from a larger cradle into a small hitch and snap.

Leaner

The leaner uses the body to fake the goalie in one direction before shooting in another.

The player can lean her body one way while using her wrists to release the ball in the opposite direction.

The movement is subtle and deceptive, making it difficult for the goalie to read.

Scripted 8M Options

The 8M can also include a scripted play, especially when the ball starts on an outside or hanging hash.

One option is to have the best player at the top show her hands and make the defense believe she is going to shoot.

Instead, the ball can be dumped inside to a player slipping toward the middle.

Having a few scripted options gives players confidence and organization in important moments.

Defensive 8M Strategy

Defensively, the first priority is controlling the hashes.

The defense is entitled to the hash and the adjacent hashes, so players should be trained to get into those positions immediately.

Use your longest or quickest defenders on the hashes, depending on your personnel.

Stick Position

The defender's bottom hand should be closest to the attacker.

This gives the defender the most reach when casting out toward the shooter's stick.

When making contact with the shooter's stick, try to get underneath the throat of the stick where it turns into the head.

That angle can help send the ball high over the cage.

Get Underneath

One of the biggest defensive priorities is getting underneath the attacker.

Don't arrive late and bump into the attacker.

Instead, anticipate the attacker's path, take a good angle, and get underneath her hip while staying more goal-side.

Getting underneath puts the defender in a better position to make a play without fouling.

The Toughness Drill

The Toughness Drill works on this defensive concept.

It can be run as 4v4 or 4v3.

The attackers work around the outside while defenders work inside.

The attacking players try to carry the ball through the cones and into another zone.

The defenders work on:

  • Communication

  • Pinching to the ball

  • Getting underneath attackers

  • Protecting the middle

  • Crashing and sliding to help

Start with handballs if needed, then progress to sticks.

The 4v3 version creates less space and less time, making defenders react quickly and creating urgency around getting underneath the ball.

The overall goal is simple:

Get underneath early, protect the middle, and avoid giving away unnecessary fouls.