Field Thirds
In training players, the field can sometimes be divided into thirds: the Attacking Third, the Middle Third, and the Defending Third.
The Attacking Third - This is the third in front of the goal where the team is trying to score. Players may be encouraged to take more chances in this third in order to get an opportunity to shoot and/or score.
The Middle Third - This is the third in the middle of the field where a team may want to keep more possession and build the attack, in order to put players in a good scoring position leading into the Attacking Third.
The Defending Third - This third is located in front of YOUR goal. A player might want to play more safely here, as the attackers are taking more risks to score. Therefore, protecting the ball and getting it to your teammates in the middle third as quickly as possible is the key.
