Japanese Handler Movement 3-on-3 by Moe Sameshima
Japanese teams use narrow space and quick throws as a way to nullify the size disadvantage they tend to have when playing internationally. They also seek to maximise the advantages gained by motion, looking to attack into areas that are difficult to defend and which make it difficult for defenders to prevent continuation.
Setup:
A thrower, A, stands 5m from the sideline, marked by D1 who applies a force middle mark. An upfield dump, B, stands 5m away from A, positioned diagonally towards the centre of the field, guarded by D2. Another cutter, C, stands just behind B, guarded by D3.
Rotation:
D1 > A > D2 > B > D3 > C
Step 1
- Because of the need to throw fast passes into tight spaces, the biggest cause of turnovers is miscommunication between players. Communication is therefore vital; looking at the marker D1 and defender D2 can help to identify which throw is the easier option to hit. It is then down to A, B and C to talk to each other to pick which option to take. The thrower, A, always initiates.
- The defence are likely to believe that the disc will go to B. Therefore, C becomes an active target.
- If the inside channel is preferred > Go to step 2
- If the around channel is preferred > Go to step 3
Pre-Requisite Drills:
Tips:
Moe Sameshima says:
Look at the marker and defender, then the thrower and receiver think about which space is stronger and which is easier to get the disc
Use voice or body language to communicate clearly; e.g. “I will go to inside space”. Alternatively, use a hand signal, like pointing into space
Japanese handlers are good at communicating because they maintain eye contact and use voice & body language often. Improving communication between handlers is key to playing successfully in the Japanese style :-)