This field hockey book marks the beginning of '50 Tips from Intelligent Players, ' a two-part series. Ever pondered what goes through your mind before receiving the ball? Or considered your immediate actions after receiving it? Have you observed how smart players defense inside the circle, strategically employing their bodies to shield the ball? Do you sense that intelligent players always stay one step ahead of the game? Within these pages, you'll discover insightful 'tips' covering tactical principles and skill acquisition. You will find tips about mental strength but also about social intelligence. There are tips about how to optimize your perception but also about how to make right decisions. This book aims to deliver 50 practical tips derived from the habits of the most intelligent players I've observed on a field hockey pitch. Although written by a coach, its direct audience is you-the players-the true protagonists of the game. If you enjoy this read, remember that you'll find 50 more tips in Vol. 2!