Sweeper or Defensive Sweeper

When to Use This Structure

• Ideal in Two Scenarios:

  1. First Centre Bounce: Set the tone early with structure and intent.

  2. When the Opposition is Dominant or We Are Gaining Dominance at Stoppages:
     Use this to either halt their momentum or reinforce ours with clear setup and roles.

Stoppage Setup & Hit Zones

• If We’re Dominant at the Stoppage:

  • We exit through the front of the stoppage.

  • Target Hit Zones:

    • 10 o’clock, 12 o’clock, and 2 o’clock – these zones are reinforced by strong numbers.

• At 12 o’clock (Centre Front):

  • A defensive sweeper holds position here — even in dominance — to impact any loose ball or breakaway.

  • This sweeper also tracks the opposition’s sweeper to negate their influence.

• Outcome:

  • By holding shape and getting numbers at these Hit Zones, we often create 3v1 scenarios around 10/12/2 — giving us control.

• Forward Structure (T-Shape):

  • A forward peels off behind the contest for a face-up receive, ready to link into attacking transition.

Training Focus

• Drills:

  • Simulate centre bounce/stoppage exits using mids and T-shape forward roles.

  • Vary the Hit Zones to improve reaction and execution.

  • Include:

    • Scramble Handball under pressure

    • Ground ball work into:

      • Release → Outlet → Overlap phases