Coaches version: Clear the Middle - Coaches Notes

Concept

Our main working space is the centre channel of the pitch, not the sidelines. The sidelines are for finishing plays — deep shots to the endzone, long resetting throws. Sidelines create pressure; the middle creates options.

We define two high-value attacking zones:

• Under Space: First 15 metres in front of the disc
• Scoring Space: Final 15 metres before the endzone

When the under space and scoring space overlap, we move into structured endzone offence.

We also define two danger zones:

• Sideline Danger: Within 5 metres of either sideline
• Neutral Space: Between the under space and scoring space

Reason

Clearing the middle gives active cutters room to move and makes defensive poaching risky.

If a defender sits in the middle:

• Someone else should be free, or
• The space should be ready for an immediate attacking cut

If you are not active, your job is to create space. If you are active, the middle should already be clear for you to make use of.

Player Rules

• Do not finish cuts in high-value zones
• Stay connected to the stacks when idle
• Avoid cutting into danger zones
• Do not throw clearing the high-value zones — always try to have an intermediary in the lane

If you finish a cut in Neutral Space, your next action should be an immediate clear to the stack or a Cutback.

Clearing the middle and high-value spaces is primarily the job of the off-disc players.

Mental Model

The middle is the stage. If you are not in the scene, clear out so the play can happen.