Biomechanical analysis of the penalty-corner drag-flick of elite male and female hockey players

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyse the kinematic sequencing in the penalty-corner drag-flicks of elite male and female field hockey players of international calibre. Thirteen participants (one skilled male drag-flicker and six male and six female elite players) participated in the study. An optoelectronic motion analysis system was used to capture the drag-flicks with six cameras, sampling at 250 Hz. Select ground reaction force parameters were obtained from a force platform which registered the last support of the front foot. Twenty trials were captured from each subject. Both player groups showed significantly (p < 0.05) smaller ball velocity at release, peak angular velocity of the pelvis, and negative and positive peak angular velocities of the stick than the skilled subject. Normalised ground reaction forces of the gender groups were also smaller than that of the skilled drag-flicker. By comparing these players we established that the cues of the skill level are a wide stance, a whipping action (rapid back lift) of the stick followed by an explosive sequential movement of the pelvis, upper trunk and stick.

A Half Century of Scientific Research in Field Hockey

“…This method may be useful in the training process, especially in re gards to maintaining correct load optimization as well as to an athlete's physiological welfare during competition [57]. Similar results can also be attained by analyzing selected camera recordings, including important parts of game play, such as penalty corners [58].…”

Penalty corner routines in elite women's indoor field hockey: Prediction of outcomes based on tactical decisions

“…It may be that the shorter distance to goal and the lighter ball allows athletes to propel a more powerful and effective shot than can be achieved outdoors. López de Subijana et al (2010) reported elite female athletes to generate a substantially slower ball speed than their male counterparts. The applicability of these findings to the outdoor scenario and the male game requires further investigation.…”

Preventing penalty corner injuries and head trauma in field hockey: time to consider the power play?

“…However, unlike the hit, there is no limitation regarding the maximum ball height when the first shot to score a goal from a penalty corner is a drag-flick. Thus, with a hard plastic ball travelling at velocities in excess of 43 mph,4 the drag-flick presents a serious injury threat to defending players (in particular) who are positioned behind the goal line in an attempt to block such shots.…”