Defenders Have Two Objectives: STOP the opponent from scoring and START the offense.

Successful team defense comes good defensive practice and from clear and concise communication. Here's our team's verbal short cuts and what they mean.

I've got ball – I'm guarding the girl with the ball.

Help – I just got beat and someone needs to pick up the girl I lost.

I'm your help –  help right – help left – I 'm coming to help form a double team – from right – from left

Ball's in the 2 – I'm covering the ball carrier in the 2 spot.

Bring her – I'm waiting to double, bring the ball carrier to me.

Double – I'm doubling the ball.

I've got stick – I'm in charge of watching for a clean check while we are in the double.

I've got body – I'm in charge of watching the ball carrier's body and dictating where we are leading her while we are in the double.

Step right – Step upfield with your RIGHT foot on a 45-degree angle.

Step left – Step upfield with your LEFT foot on a 45-degree angle.

Hold – Hold your player where she is, or I don't need help.

Force weak – Force ball carrier to her weaker side (to the left for righties, to the right for lefties).

Force to help – Force ball carrier toward a fellow defender.

Force out – Force ball carrier either way towards a side line and away from the center.

Clear – Break out in pattern to start the offense.

Ride – Pressure on the defense by the attack and midfield players when possession is lost in either the attack end or midfield.

Crash – Called by goalie when ball gets in front of the goal inside the eight meter, to bring defenders with their sticks in front of the ball.