Two-time All-American Molly Hendrick reunited with her former North Carolina coach Jenny Levy in November, joining the U.S. women’s national team for the first time at the Presidents Cup in Florida.

She tallied five points on four goals and an assist, picking up where she left off as a Tar Heel, when she graduated with the program’s highest totals in career goals and points.

“It was an incredible feeling wearing the red, white and blue and was an honor to be able to represent USA,” Hendrick said. “Playing under Coach Levy is always amazing because she brings so much passion and inspiration to the game.”

Playing with modified FIL trial rules increased the speed of the game, therefore enlarging the defenders’ range of pressure, explained Hendrick, who adjusted her attack plan by using her full body to protect her stick. She called it the “post-up move.”

“Stick protection was needed because the defenders were hungry to get the ball moving the other direction at a fast pace,” Hendrick said.

1. Determine if your defender is overly aggressive and is trying to take the ball. If yes, protecting your stick with your full body is very effective.

2. Position your body into a post-up move, which is similar to a post-up in the critical scoring area. Put your body between the ball and the defender to ensure your stick is not easily accessible.

3. Keep your head and eyes up to see your teammates moving to create offense.

4. Feel where your defender is pressuring and pushing against you. When your defender is on your shoulder or back, make a move in the opposite direction.