A lack of blocking can result from not being comfortable with the skill itself. Poor technique, fear of the ball and incorrect positioning are all reasons an athlete fails at blocking. 

How to improve

Poor technique

•  Positioning drills: going from horizontal to vertical and block shooters in a zone

•  Mirror drills: the blocker follows the shooter's motions and the shooters must beat the block 

Fear of the ball

• Make blocking an important stat and core part of your training: by rewarding blocks as much as you reward goals. During defensive drills, emphasize blocking. Try the ‘Covid Game’ or 3 on 3 zone game-  giving points for blocks and goals are all ways to help them get rid of that fear.

• When you incorporate shooting, force your shooters to only try to beat the blocker. Most shooters shy away from the blocker and shoot cross cage. This type of practice will teach your athletes how to block and how to beat a block.

Incorrect positioning

• Incorporate Concentration drills: 

X1 & X3 on 6x5 must jump and switch hands quick enough to stop the shot

• Walk them through 5 on 6 blocking positions on land and then again in the water. Make a quiz for your athletes to see if they really understand their blocking roles. 

Sample quiz? 

Suggested Drills:

Water Polo 2.0: One Handed Sculling

Water Polo 2.0: Lunge Out of Water

Water Polo 2.0: Vertical Breaststroke

Water Polo 2.0: Blocking the Ball

Defense: 2-3-4 Perimeter Defense

Defense: Spanish Walking Shotblock

Defense: Perimeter D Hit & Recover

6-8 Challenge Kit Drills: Partner Med Ball Throw

6-8 Challenge Kit Drills: Shot Block & Hit Wall to Buoy

6-8 Challenge: Synchro med Ball drill

At Home workout - Ball Handling: Shot Blocks