Back pocket

For other uses, see Pocket (disambiguation).

See also: Forward pocket

In Australian rules football, the back pocket refers to a position on the field deep in defence.

Back pocket players, situated in the backline, need to have good spoiling skills and usually, quality back-pockets are noted for their hardness.

An unusually high number of back pocket players go on to become league coaches. Some attribute this to their tactical overview of the play all the way up the ground and ability to change defence into attack.

Examples of back pocket players include:

• Tom Hafey
• David Parkin
• Kevin Sheedy
• Bernie Smith
• Ian Nankervis

Australian rules football positions
B:	back pocket	fullback	back pocket
HB:	half-back flank	centre half-back	half-back flank
C:	wing	centre	wing
HF:	half-forward flank	centre half-forward	half-forward flank
F:	forward pocket	full-forward	forward pocket
Foll:	ruckman	ruck rover	rover
Int:	Interchange bench	Interchange bench	Interchange bench
		substitute
Coach:	coach