INTRODUCTION TO THE PRINCIPALS of MODERN DAY GAELIC FOOTBALL

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3. Introduction to the principles of the Modern game

The starting point for every coach of team games is to develop a thorough understanding of the principles of team play. Essentially, there are three phases to most team games.

a. Attack b. Defence c. Midfield

The principles of Attack

Firstly, the principles of Attacking play in modern Gaelic football as presently understood are;

*Depth: Support the ball

*Players as targets

*Short and long ball passing options

*Penetration: Moving the ball through or into the oppositions defence at speed 
*Width: Playing balls into wide positions to draw and isolate defenders away from each other and from central positions giving more space inside for forwards to see.

*Mobility: The movement of players in from or behind the ball therefore moving defensive players out of position and causing disruption in their defence. Players making runs to leave space for others.

*Improvisation: Players changing roles/position

*Communication: Supporting players giving verbal and non verbal signals to the players in possession.

Principles of Defence

The principles of Defence are used to help counteract forward play. The main principles of sound Defence include;

*Make Forward make a decision: Too often defenders commit or lunge into the tackle without knowing what is going on behind them. A good defender will strive to get close enough to the attacker to prevent a score been taken but not too close to allow the forward to dummy or side step him. The defender must always keep in mind that the forward has to hop, solo or get rid of the ball, and the key

principle of defending must be to make the forward make a decision. Good defending is all about waiting for the right moment to make the tackle or force the forward on the ball into

a potentially low scoring area of the pitch.

*Delay: Too often defenders see their primary duty as dispossessing their opponent, often resulting in a free kick being awarded, whereas the key initial function of good defence is to delay and prevent the forward from doing what he wishes to do with the ball.

*Balance: Balance also as a principle of play in defence is essential. With forwards being mobile and moving defenders around the pitch and attempting to pull them out of position, it is essential that

the defence maintains balance through depth and cover. Defenders have to be coached to read the game while at the same time working on their man marking skills. Maintaining balance in defence is also about good communication, vision and decision making by the defender.

*Concentration: For effective defending, high levels of concentration are essential. Concentration is central to getting players behind the ball and into the key defensive area to provide cover and depth