Unit 101 Defense!

M: Stay low and bend your knees!

Come over here. B : Yes, Coach?

M: Jackson, when you're playing defense, keep your knees bent and your body low.

It helps you keep your balance. And it allows you to move more quickly in every direction. B : Like this?

M: That's right.

You should attempt to stay on the balls of your feet. It's like you are getting ready to pounce. Athletes never rest on their heels. B : Should I stand with my legs close together or far apart?

M: It is best to keep them about shoulder-width apart.

Bend your knees and keep your back straight. Spread your arms straight out at your sides. B : This seems almost like I'm getting ready to attack the ball.

M: It is a little bit like that.

Your stance looks much better than before. B : Coach, how do I move forward and backward on defense?

I feel like my stance is fine, but when I try to dart toward my opponent, I keep tripping over my feet. M: When you move forward, put your right foot in front of you, with your toes pointing in the direction you want to go.

When you move backward, just reverse it: follow the direction of your left foot. How are you feeling? B : My legs are tired and my back aches.

M: Playing defense is hard work.

Take a break, then we'll try it again.