The recommended common characteristics for players in each position of a regulation team are described here.
Attack
Number of Players:
3 Attackmen
Objective:
Score goals
Area of Field:
Restricted to offensive end
Used as:
Primary ball handlers, passers, scorers and feeders
Required skills:
Excellent stick skills with both hands and have quick feet to maneuver around the goal
Midfield
Number of Players:
3 Midfielders
Objective:
Transitional force
Area of Field:
Entire field - offensive and defensive ends
Used as:
ball handlers, passers, scorers, feeders, transition the ball down the field for a scoring opportunity, and defend against opposing team's transition to goal
Required skills:
Great speed and stamina.
Strong stick skills
Throwing
Catching
Scooping
Most teams rotate multiple groups through out a game.
Defense
Number of Players:
3 Defensemen
Objective:
Defend the goal
Area of Field:
Restricted to defensive end
Used as:
Break up other team's plays
Prevent shots on goal
Clear the ball to offensive units.
Receive outlet passes from goalie.
Required skills:
Agility
Strong stick skills
Aggressive (while under control)
Quick to respond when matching up against offensive player.
Goalkeeper
Number of Players:
1 Goalie
Objective:
Stop the ball from entering the goal
Area of Field:
Restricted to defensive end and positioned in the "crease"
Used as:
"Read" defensive situations
Direct defenders and midfielders to prevent scoring attempts from opposing team.
