Due to the ever-changing environment that a match is contested in and the uncontrollable nature of the opposition, it is very difficult to predict exactly what will happen within the game. However, it is possible to train players how to react and move during certain situations, very similar to the ‘plays’ that exist in American football and Basketball, so that they are in the correct positions at the correct times to receive a pass and support their team mate.

The patterns of play employed by a team can begin with any player on the pitch and be as complex or as simple as the coach intends. However, they should be relevant to the standard of the players involved, realistic and understandable.

The patterns can be called out by the coach or they occur through habit (due to number of times practiced) once a certain player has it within their possession. All the players should realise what is happening and then react to the movements they should be performing.

Patterns can be mirrored so that they can occur on the opposite side of the pitch.