I recently watched an episode of Detail on ESPN+ where Peyton Manning, retired, future Hall of Fame NFL Quarterback, analyzed the play of Deshaun Watson, current NFL Quarterback, in his December 12th game. In the episode Peyton Manning explains how to practice and properly sell a play-action hand-off.
(more…)Setting up Shots with 1-2 Passing
In the beater screen article I discussed how 1-2 passing can draw the attention of the defending beaters. In this article I will examine how 1-2 passing opens up shooting angles for offensive chasers.
What is a 1-2 Pass?
1-2 passing is a concept common in many sports including soccer, basketball and hockey.
The basic concept is two quaffle players use one quick pass to pull the point defender out of position then take advantage with another quick pass.
First, the quaffle carrier allows the point defender to key-in on them.
(more…)The Future of Quidditch: Sidearm Throws and Push Throws
Elite quidditch teams have excellent ball-handling skills. Their players are able to throw and catch reliably which allows their coaching staff to focus on strategy over technique.
In my opinion, players should be taught ball-handling skills, such as throwing and catching motions, without context. They will learn the context as they become familiar with and use the technique. This develops the players strategic thinking and they learn situational flexibility.
Most players exclusively use the overhand throwing motion and would benefit from learning others. This article introduces the sidearm throw and push throw which, when mastered, will make a player a better ball-handler.
(more…)Single-Play Breakdown: Offensive Opportunities and Beater Defense
The New York City Titans struggled offensively in their second game against the Boston Nightriders at the 2018 MLQ championships. The following article will explain how the Boston beaters were able to react quickly to New York’s passing and were able to take bludger control from New York’s beaters.
Single-Play Breakdown: Boston and the Five Zone Pitch
While watching the Boston Night Riders vs. New York City Titans film on Youtube, the player movement on a single play stuck out.
In this play the Boston chasers exhibit strong off-ball movement, creating a key pass opening in the New York defense. Let’s introduce the five zone pitch concept to describe this movement.
(more…)The Beater Screen
Good quidditch teams use quaffle passing not only to score goals, but also to gain and retain bludger control.
Recently I wanted to watch the 2018 MLQ Championships footage. Rather than watch the hour or more livestream recordings, I started with the one standalone game on the channel, Austin Outlaws vs. Rochester Whiteout – Game 1.
Three times Austin used a set play on offense I would describe as a beater screen. Their first attempt ended in a missed shot. Their second resulted in a goal. And their third led to a reset and resulted in bludger control.
While only one attempt led to a goal, all three plays created offensive opportunities, slowed the pace of the game and helped Austin stay in snitch range.
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