The slap in field hockey, also called a slap hit or sweep, is a fast, low pass or shot made with a long sweeping motion along the ground. To play it, hold the stick with your hands apart, the lower hand well down the grip, get low with a wide stance, place the ball out in front and slightly to the side, then sweep the stick along the turf and through the ball with a short backswing and strong body rotation. The stick stays close to the ground throughout. The slap is quicker to release than a full hit and more powerful than a push, which makes it one of the most used passing skills in the modern game and a common way to shoot or deflect at goal.
This guide explains when to use the slap, how it compares with other strokes, step-by-step technique, forehand and reverse variations, the rules to watch, drills and common mistakes.
Slap vs hit vs push
| Stroke | Hands | Backswing | Speed of release | Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Push | Apart, as in dribbling | None | Very fast | Low to medium |
| Slap | Apart, lower hand low on the grip | Short, along the ground | Fast | Medium to high |
| Hit (drive) | Together at the top of the stick | Full, lifted | Slower | Highest |
When to use the slap
The slap is ideal for medium to long passes when you do not have time for a full hit, such as switching play across the field, passing into the circle, or playing a ball down the line to a forward. It is also used for shots on goal, particularly slapping the ball across the face of the goal for a teammate to deflect, and for quick passes out of defence under pressure. Because it is released low and fast, it is hard for defenders to read and intercept.
Step-by-step technique
- Grip: left hand at the top of the stick, right hand low down the grip, hands well apart.
- Stance: feet wide, knees bent and body low, with your left shoulder pointing toward the target.
- Ball position: out in front and slightly to the right of your front foot, far enough away that your arms can extend.
- Short backswing: take the stick back low along the ground, keeping it close to the turf.
- Sweep through: rotate your hips and shoulders and sweep the stick along the ground into the ball.
- Contact: strike the ball with the flat face of the stick, keeping the stick nearly flat to the ground on many slaps.
- Follow through: continue low toward the target and stay balanced over your front foot.
Forehand and reverse slaps
The forehand slap is the most common and uses the flat face of the stick in its normal position. Many players also learn a reverse slap, sometimes called a reverse sweep, which is played on the left side with the stick turned over. The reverse slap is harder to master but gives attackers a quick way to pass or shoot from the left without moving the ball onto the forehand. Some elite players use reverse shots from the edge of the circle, often with the stick flat to the ground and a powerful rotation of the body.
Controlling direction and height
Direction comes from your shoulder alignment and the angle of the stick face at contact. To keep the ball on the ground, keep your stick flat and low and your hands ahead of the ball at contact. A slap that is struck under the ball or with the stick angled upward can lift, which is fine for some shots at goal but must never be dangerous.
Rules to keep in mind
The Rules of Hockey allow only the flat side and edges of the stick to play the ball. Players must not play the ball dangerously or in a way that leads to dangerous play, and a ball intentionally raised from a hit, except for a shot at goal, is penalised. Umpires may also judge a slap that rises sharply toward other players as dangerous. Some youth and indoor competitions restrict hitting and slapping, so check the local rules.
For exact definitions, refer to the International Hockey Federation (FIH) Rules of Hockey and your national or school association’s rules.
Drills to practise
- Stationary slaps: slap the ball to a partner at 10 to 20 metres.
- Slap to target: aim between two cones or at a rebound board.
- Dribble and slap: dribble, set the ball and slap on the move.
- Deflection practice: slap across goal for a teammate to deflect.
- Reverse slap practice: build control on the left side at short distances first.
Common mistakes
- Hands too close together: reduces control and power.
- Standing too upright: makes it hard to keep the stick low and flat.
- Ball too close to the feet: cramps the swing.
- Lifting the stick in the backswing: turns the slap into a poor hit.
- Looking up too early: leads to mis-hits.
Field hockey balls are hard. Wear shin guards and a mouthguard, practise in safe spaces, and learn striking technique under a qualified coach.
Slap vs hit: choosing in a game
Choose a slap when you need speed of release and accuracy over medium distance, or when defenders are closing quickly. Choose a full hit when you have time and need maximum distance or power, such as clearing the ball or switching play across the field. Choose a push when you need a very short, disguised pass. Being comfortable with all three lets you pick the right stroke instantly.
Building power in the slap
Power in the slap comes from a low, wide base, strong rotation through the hips and shoulders, and a fast, flat swing. Strengthening the legs and core helps. Practise slaps at increasing distances, focusing on a firm contact with the middle of the stick.
The slap in modern field hockey
The slap has become one of the most common passes at elite level because it combines speed, accuracy and a quick release. Many top players use it to switch play, feed the circle and create deflection chances, making it an essential skill for every outfield position.
Practise slaps on both natural grass and turf if you play on both, since the ball’s speed changes noticeably between surfaces.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a slap and a hit in field hockey?
A slap uses a short backswing along the ground with hands apart. A hit uses a full backswing with hands together at the top of the stick.
Can you score with a slap?
Yes. Slaps are used for shots on goal and to set up deflections in the circle.
Is the reverse slap legal?
Yes, as long as it uses the flat face or edge of the stick and is not dangerous.
