What is a defender in field hockey?

Answer 1

A defender is one of the players whose primary task is to defend the 23 metre area and circle. The goalkeeper is an obvious inclusion, as are the fullbacks and any sweeper. The halves often play a defensive role as well, and the inners often assist the defence. In some desperate situations the centreforward or wings may even be called back to help out. Basically, the whole team is the defense - all players attempt to keep the ball as far up the field and away from their own circle as possible.