Centre back
Playmaker – Decisions Under Pressure.
What this position demands mentally
- Responsibility for building up play
- Turnovers are especially noticeable
- Constant communication with the coach and team
- Decision in the final action
Your typical situations
Turnover
Lost the ball in a challenge or it was intercepted.
Misplaced pass
The pass doesn't connect – counter-attack for the opponent.
Technical error
Steps, double dribble, court violation – ball lost without opponent pressure.
Last Attack
30 seconds, one attack, everything to play for.
Criticism from the coach
Loudly, in front of the team or during a timeout.
Draw in the final phase
Every possession counts, the pace in your head is picking up.
Missed a 7-metre throw
Open shot, everyone watches, ball doesn't go in.
Shot missed
Open shot, goes wide or to the goalkeeper.
Scenarios for you
You're 15 minutes into the game. That was your second technical error – a stepping violation after a pass that was actually clean.
What's happening in your head?
You just missed a 7-metre throw. Now the ref calls another 7-metre throw – and the ball is back with you.
What's happening in your head?
Four minutes left, you're up by one goal – and you get a two-minute suspension. You’re on the bench, your team is playing a player down.
What's happening in your head?
Draw, 25 seconds left on the clock, your team has the ball. Timeout's over, the play is set – and you're involved.
What's happening in your head?
Selection try-outs. Two unfamiliar coaches stand on the sideline with clipboards. Your first ball contact: a bad pass.
What's happening in your head?
Timeout at 12:17. The coach says two sentences to the team – and then 20 seconds just to you, loudly.
What's happening in your head?