Hurling Coaching

This page will give coaches helpful tips in working with the male player and in Coaching Hurling.

Principles of Play

Quick reference for coaches. Behaviour-led principles organised by phase of play.

ATTACK

  • First touch under pressure (control to strike/handpass quickly)

  • Strike to space (not bodies) & support the break

  • Triangle support: short option & long option available

  • Fix defenders → free runner/space; finish from good positions

TRANSITION DEF→ATT

  • Tackle → strike quickly into advantage space

  • Support arrives for second ball & next pass/strike

TRANSITION ATT→DEF

  • React ▸ hunt the first touch; slow the strike

  • Recover compact shape if press is beaten

DEFENCE

  • Pressure first touch; deny clean striking

  • Protect central channel; force wide/low-value shots

  • Hook/block/tackle timing; win contact and break ball

  • Communicate & cover (press + sweep)

RESTARTS (PUCKOUTS)

  • Calls & shapes for short/medium/long

  • Break plan: who attacks, who sweeps, who supports the win