The value of using games in practice - what do games teach?

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By: TomM Likes: 0

Wednesday, September 12 2012 @ 03:13 PM GMT (Read 363849 times)

Games to TEACH THE GAME

I am going to focus on how to use games to teach the game over the next while. There has been a movement in places like the USA to play cross ice like they do in most parts of Europe. Sometimes it seems like it is simply playing games for the sake of playing games. That isn't a bad idea but games can be a very effective tool for practicing specific hockey skills for individual, team and game understanding.

The first part is to have an understanding how games can be used to: TEACH THE GAME
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Understanding the Game

SMALL AND MODIFIED GAMES:
A TOOL TO LEARN TO PLAY ICE HOCKEY

The small games method signifies an alternative approach to the traditional way of running a class or practice in goal centered games. The teaching style is a tool in learning to play. This method is based on the traditional and natural methods of pick-up games and shinny. Lining players up is avoided, and the different modified games take care of teaching the rules and skills of the sport. The instructor or coach organizes the process through a progression of games. The leagues and playoffs generate the situations that cause the players themselves to analyze ways to win the games.

The game situations put the players into challenging situations they find difficult to handle, and encourages them to learn how to succeed. When the players "need to know," it’s the time for skill drills. The techniques that are learned in the drills are now relevant to the players’ needs and are eagerly performed by the players.

Through the use of small games players can learn the various “playing roles” while they practice essential skills and improve their stamina. Players enjoy learning the game by playing small games. This method of practice makes sense to the players and most importantly, the team gets better. The clear goal of a hockey practice is "to learn to play better."

Small games can be played using eight (and many more possible ways) basic methods of utilizing the ice. All of these methods can use two or more goals and one or more balls or pucks.

Use one zone play in a small area of the rink to practice movement and the use of space. Add rules to practice individual and team thinking (playing roles) skills. In another zone, have another game or a skill drill.

When players play on two nets either cross-ice or full-ice, they automatically learn to position themselves both in offense and defense, and react to the transition from defense to offense and visa versa.

Understanding the Game

THE FOUR PLAYER ROLES

Both in offensive and defensive games, the moves of the players are determined by what role they are playing. The roles are determined by their closeness to the puck and whether they are on defense, offence or in transition. During any of these situations each player will be fulfilling one of the four playing roles.

Role One: the puckcarrier, or for loose puck situations it is the offensive player closest to the puck.

Role Two: the other offensive players who support the puckcarrier by getting open for a pass, screening or giving width
and depth to the attack.

Role Three: the checker (defensive player) closest to the puck or puckcarrier.

Role Four: the other defensive players who cover man-to-man or an area of the ice. All maintain the defensive side and deflect the
attack to the outside. Depending on the distance from the puck and whether he is the third, fourth, or fifth player closest to the
puck, the player in the fourth playing role must support by covering an opponent, switching, or double-teaming.

When each player assumes the proper playing role, the team can think in the same way. There is never a question of the goalie's role, and the same clarity of role and responsibility should apply for every player on the ice. Player roles constantly change in the game, and the players must be able to instantly react in the appropriate manner in all game situations.

The puckcarrier must always move into open ice, but it is too difficult to be effective if his teammates don't also move into open ice. One defensive player always tries to force the puckcarrier wide out of the danger areas, and the other defenders support and eventually gain possession of the puck.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/video.php?n=20090912125147456

By Juhani Wahlsten and Tom Molloy

4playingroles.pdf

'The Game is the Greatest Coach'
'Enjoy the Game'

Admin

TomM

Registered: 06/25/08

Posts: 3566

Location: Calgary, Canada

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Re: Beginner Games to teach skating and introduce playing concepts

By: TomM Likes: 0

Wednesday, September 12 2012 @ 04:10 PM GMT

Beginner Games to teach skating and introduce playing concepts

These are games to get new players moving on the ice in the proper balance position. Games are also used to introduce the 4 game playing roles.

Using Games to Teach the Game Level 0 – non skaters

ABC’s of Intenational Hockey: A program to develop the Complete Player

Using Games to Teach the Game.
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Games to Develop On-Ice Agility
D, ROLE 1
GAME OF CATCH WITH A PARTNER:
Play a game of catch with a partner. Use a ball and stand about 9-15 feet/3-5 meters apart. This will stress balance on the skates.
D-0001
http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525081213295

Games to Develop On-Ice Agility
O.D, ROLE 1
GAME OF CATCH WITH A PARTNER WHILE MOVING AROUND IN A SMALL AREA OF THE ICE:
Play a game of catch with a partner while moving around a small area of the ice, throwing and catching the ball. Groups larger than 2 can be used. This game helps in developing balance, using the edges, turning and stopping.
D-0002
http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525081227233

Games to Develop On-Ice Agility
D, ROLE 1
GAME OF KEEP-AWAY USING A BALL:
The players must throw and catch a ball against another team. Play 1-on-1, 2-on-2, 3-on-3, etc. Make sure all players have gloves to protect the hands from the skate blades. This game works all of the skating skills and develops split vision.
D-0003
http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525081241405

Games to Develop On-Ice Agility
D, ROLE 1
GAME OF HANDBALL:
2 teams play full ice. Regular goals are used. All players must handle the ball before a goal counts. Use the ringette crease, only the goalie can be in the crease. If the ball or Frisbee hits the ice the other team gets possession. All skating skills are practiced in this game.
D-0004
http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525081258429

Games to Introduce Game Concepts and CoordinationD, ROLE 1
GAME USING ONLY THE FEET, AS IN SOCCER FOOTBALL:
Each player has a pylon and places the pylons for goals all over the ice. The player dribbles the puck with her feet and scores at as many pylons as possible in 1 minute. The coach times the activity and has 5-7 games of 1 minute. After each game the coach asks who scored the most goals. Game skills are introduced and coordination on the ice is the focus. http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525081313805

Games to Introduce Game Concepts and CoordinationD, ROLE 1
1-ON-1 GAME OF SOCCER FOOTBALL:
The player scores by kicking the puck against the pylon. Each player has a pylon and places it acrossice from his partner. Split vision, agility and turns are emphasized in this activity.
D-0006
http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525081332852

Games to Introduce Game Concepts and CoordinationD, ROLES 1 AND 2
2-ON-2 GAME OF SOCCER FOOTBALL:
Play a cross-ice game with the players in teams of 2. Score by kicking either the puck or a ball and hitting the pylon. 1 pass must be made. Offensive and defensive principles are learned, as well as change-of-pace skating.
D-0007
http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525081346665

Games that Practice Team Play and Skating Posture
D, ROLE 1
PYLON HOCKEY:
Use a large pylon instead of a stick. In this full-ice game a goal is scored by pushing the puck over the other team’s goal line with the pylon. This game practices keeping the knees bent and head up while skating.
D-0008
http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525081359903

Games for Agility and Quickness
D, ROLES 1 AND 2
BRITISH BULLDOG:
This game has the players line up at the end of the rink in the A2 formation. 1 player is at the blue line and calls out British Bulldog. The players try to skate to the other end without being touched by the player at the blue line. If you are touched you join the player who is calling British Bulldog. To be good at this game the player must turn quickly, change speeds, and be agile.
D-0009
http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525081419680

Games for Puck-Handling Ability, Speed and Quickness
D, ROLES 1 AND 3
BRITISH PUCK DOG:
The players line up behind the goal line; when the player in the middle yells British Puck Dog they stickhandle the puck, trying to get to the end without being checked. If a player loses the puck he/she is in the middle checking. Last player with a puck wins.
D-00010
http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525081435891

Games for Agility on Skates and Bending the Knees
D
GAME OF FREEZE TAG:
Players play in 1 zone. 1 person is it. When a player is tagged they must stay in the spot they were touched. To be free another free player must slide on his/her stomach between the frozen players’ legs. This game uses all skating skills, especially agility on skates. Make sure all players are wearing their hockey gloves.
D D-0011
http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525081419680

Games for Agility on Skates and Bending the Knees
D
RACES PULLING A PARTNER WHO IS KNEELING
The players hold 1 stick in each hand and pull a partner 1 length of the ice. At the other end they turn and the partner pulls the first skater back. Stress bending knees and toeing out. This activity causes the skater to toe out, using more of the skate blade and a longer stride.
D D-0012
http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525081435891

Using Games to Teach the Game Level 0.pdf

'The Game is the Greatest Coach'
'Enjoy the Game'

Admin

TomM

Registered: 06/25/08

Posts: 3566

Location: Calgary, Canada

Quote

Re: Games to TEACH THE GAME

By: TomM Likes: 0

Thursday, September 13 2012 @ 03:15 PM GMT

Organizing the Ice for Games

A coach has to be able to use space well in order to run effective practices. This is a guide on ways to coach using games.

D1 Basic Formation
D-coded exercises are the most important part of the teaching system, because they involve the
game itself. The other exercises all lead up to the D exercises, acting as building blocks for
learning how to play in game-like situations.

Teaching points:
D1 uses the whole ice with two nets. The model used is the traditional and natural way of learning
by playing using "scrimmages", but rule variations enable the coach to use the ice more
effectively.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525081957828

D100 Formation
D100 formation is another formation that uses the whole ice with two nets, however the extra players wait on the side boards or the bench.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525081957828

D2 Basic Formation
Games are played cross-ice with nets, pylons, lines on boards, etc. as the goals. Special rules
allow the players to practice individual or team play skills in this smaller area. In this formation,
many game understanding, reading and reacting skills will naturally be developed. This
formation encourages creativity and split vision in more realistic situations.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525082023546

D200 Formation
D200 formation is similar to D2 basic formation except the extra players line up along the blue
lines.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=2010052508203349

D3 Basic Formation
In the D3 formation, the ice surface is used by having a full ice game across two zones and a
cross-ice game at one end. This formation is very useful if the skill levels or size of the players
vary. More advanced players can use D1, while the others play in D2 formation. This formation
is very helpful when one end is needed to practice skills that don't have much movement. The
game can go on in two zones, techniques can be taught in the third zone.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525082049156

D300 Formation
D300 formation is similar to D1 and D2 formations except the extra players are lined up either
on the boards or the blue line.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525082100841

D4 Basic Formation
In the D4 formation the players either use one third or one half of the rink and both teams shoot
on the same net, as in half court basketball. In order to go onto offence, the defense must carry
the puck over the blue line and then turn back into the zone. If half of the rink is available, the
defense must carry the puck as far as the red line before turning back and attacking. All players
must get on-side in these games; this rule promotes skating and much more realistic playing
situations.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525082119406

D400 Exercise
D400 formation is similar to D4 formation except the extra players line up along the boards in
the neutral zone.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525082129900

D5 Formation
D5 formation is the combination of D4 and D2. Two zones are used for playing half-ice games
where the players must touch the blue line with their skates before going on offence. The neutral
zone is used for a cross-ice game.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525082140839

D500 VARIATION
D500 Variation is similar to D5 except the extra players are lined up along the boards near the blue lines. Rule variations enable the coach to use the ice more effectively and focus on specific skills and techniques.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525082148816

D6 FORMATION
Description:
When the coach has four goalies at their disposal, a D6 formation may be used. By playing a regular full ice game with two nets on each goal line, 4 goalies can be accommodated. The coaches should emphasize that goals do not count if the scorer did not make eye contact with the goalie before shooting.
http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/video.php?n=20100821114214589

D7 Formation
In the D7 formation the players are put into 8 teams and play 2 1/4 ice games at each end of the rink. Each game can have special rules or all of the games can have the same rules. It is an excellent way to make use of the entire rink. Up to about 40 skaters and 4 goalies can all play at the same time. Of course , the bigger player need more space and smaller teams.

The tight situation causes the players to have to read and react quickly and develop quick moves.

Many drills can also be done using this formation when you have large groups and multiple goalies. It is a great way to share the ice and play tournaments or set up a combination of games and skill activities.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?s=20100821115710425

D8 FORMATION
In the D8 formation the players are divided into 8 teams, and they play 4,
quarter-ice games; each game has 2 nets. This works best if there is a rink
divider along the red line to keep the puck in one end of the ice.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20080721131657867

Multi – Puck Games to Teach Split Vision for Young Players

D1 - Playing with More Pucks using Full Ice
Playing with more pucks enables the coach to increase the amount of activity on the ice. More
game-like situations are created for the players to solve. To keep the game safe, there can be
no hitting or slap shots. All players should keep track of their goals. For beginners, you can use
many pucks and ask them to score as many goals as possible. After a while, ask how many goals
each player has scored. If the goalie is making a save, the puck carrier must protect the puck
and wait for the goalie to be ready before shooting.

Roles 1 and 3

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525082207197

D1 - Playing with 7 Puck
Two teams gather at center and the coach drops 7 pucks. If the goalie is making a save, the
puck carrier must wait for the goalie to be ready before shooting (the shooter and the goalie
should have eye contact). The first team to score 4 goals wins, and another game begins. Make
sure that there are only 7 pucks and the pucks are left in the net after a goal.

Roles 1 and 3

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525082224608

Playing with 3 Pucks
Playing with 3 pucks causes some things to naturally happen. The players must look around with
their heads on a swivel so they know what is happening behind them. Some variations are
everyone on the ice or 5-on-5 with line changes. Keep score and the team that scores twice
wins. Next game, start with two pucks, and then one. In order to avoid confusion, only have
three pucks on the ice at one time, the extra pucks can be on top of the nets. Another idea is a
timed game where the goalie puts the puck back into play after a goal.
Roles 1 and 3

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=2010052508224478

Playing with 2 Pucks
Playing with 2 pucks has the same basic purpose in the system as all multi-puck games. The
goalie puts the puck back into play after a goal. A good technique is to give a point to the team
that scores two goals. Playing with two pucks at more advanced levels is a good read and react
exercise when you play situations such as 3-on-3.

Roles 1 and 3

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20100525082256558

Organizing the Ice for Games.pdf

'The Game is the Greatest Coach'
'Enjoy the Game'

Admin

TomM

Registered: 06/25/08

Posts: 3566

Location: Calgary, Canada

Quote

Re: D, GAME ORIENTATION: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

By: TomM Likes: 0

Friday, September 14 2012 @ 04:43 PM GMT

These ideas are from IIHF Hall of Fame Coaches Juhani Wahlsten of Finland and Vladimir Jursinov of Russia. They both played for their countries in multiple Olympics and have coached at the highest European pro levels. Jursi has coached many Soviet and Russian Olympic teams. Juuso coached many pro and has been a hockey developer extrodinaire. They both have helped many players get the the NHL.

Horst Wein also contributed many ideas about using 'games to teach the game'. Horst is famous for his Games Method in Field Hockey and Soccer Football. He helped design the Football program in Barcelona which is renowned as the best development program in the world.

So it isn't this coach from Calgary thinking of all of these things. I am sharing ideas I learned from some of the top minds in the coaching world.

I hope the coaches that read these ideas are open to them and the main themes of the Coaching ABC's which are 'ENJOY THE GAME' and 'THE GAME IS THE GREATEST COACH'.

Maybe we can reverse the statistic of 80% of players in Canada and other places quitting by the age of 14 to 80% staying in the game. We coaches have contributed to players quitting because the second most common reason they give is that the hate practice.

MAYBE IT IS TIME FOR A CHANGE IN OUR APPROACH
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D, GAME ORIENTATION: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

PLAYING ROLES 1 AND 3 IN PRACTICE
A cross-ice game of 1-on-1 is the simplest and best way to teach the role of the puck carrier (number 1) and the checking player (number 3) in practice. The player either attacks or defends during a 1-on-1 game and the transition from defense to offence and vice-versa is automatically experienced. The players are organized in pairs and play a cross-ice game for 1 minute. When the game ends the players on 1 side of the ice move down 1 goal, with the last player moving to the empty goal at the other end. Play 1 game against each player on the other side of the rink; the players keep track of their wins, losses and ties.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20120914095045203

D, GAME ORIENTATION: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

PLAYING ROLES 1-2-3-4 IN PRACTICE
5 cross-ice games. The players experience the 4 playing roles in practice during a 2-on-2 game.
The players continuously change their playing roles from puck carrier (number 1) to offensive support
(number 2), or closest checker (number 3) to defensive support (number 4). The players are
organized in pairs and play a cross-ice game for 2 minutes. When the game ends the players on
1 side of the ice move down 1 goal, with the players at 1 end moving to the empty goal at the other
end. Play 1 game against each team on the other side of the rink; the players keep track of their wins,
losses and ties.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20090928080533500

D, GAME ORIENTATION: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

THE NUMBER OF PASSES AND LEARNING THE GAME
An effective way to teach the 4 playing roles is to have rules about how many passes are allowed.
The fewer passes the more individual play (role number 1and role number 3). The more passes the
more team play (role number 2 and number 4).

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20090928080534960

D, GAME ORIENTATION: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

CHANGING THE 4 PLAYING ROLES WITH MORE THAN 2 PLAYERS
When the players understand the constant changing of playing roles in the 2-on-2 games they are
ready for 3-on-3 and then 4-on-4 games. These games add the dimensions of the triangle and box
in offensive and defensive situations. Play a crossice game in each zone for 2 minutes, then have the
teams on 1 side move down 1 goal; the last team go to the empty net at the other end of the rink.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20090928080535793

D, GAME ORIENTATION: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

CHANGING THE 4 PLAYING ROLES WITH MORE THAN 2 PLAYERS
When the players understand the constant changing of playing roles in the 2-on-2 games they are
ready for 3-on-3 and then 4-on-4 games. These games add the dimensions of the triangle and box
in offensive and defensive situations. Play a crossice game in each zone for 2 minutes, then have the
teams on 1 side move down 1 goal; the last team go to the empty net at the other end of the rink.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20090928080535793

D, GAME ORIENTATION: LEARNING THE GAME

FULL-ICE SMALL AND MODIFIED GAMES
Play full-ice micro games of 1-on-1, 2-on-2, 3-on-3 to practice the 4 playing roles in the defensive, neutral
and offensive zones. Use modified rules to create the situations that you want the players to practice. These rules can be designed to practice good habits (always face the puck), develop skills (only wrist passes are allowed) or team-play concepts (2 points for a goal scored from a play originating below the goal line encourages offensive cycling and low defensive coverage).

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20090928080537624

D, GAME ORIENTATION: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

A HALF-ICE GAME WITH BOTH TEAMS SHOOTING ON 1 GOAL
Play a half-ice game using any number of players. Individual skills can be isolated in a 1-on-1 game. All
of the 4 roles are practiced in a 2-on-2 game. Defensive and offensive triangles are used in a 3-on-3 game and a box offence and defense on a 4-on-4 game. 5-on-5 has all of the team-play components.
All even- and odd- numbered situations like the power play or the 6-on-5 can be practiced.
Some methods of transition from defense to offence are: • All players must get onside and the puck carrier must touch the red line before attacking. • All players must touch the puck before scoring.
• Pass to new players who are waiting in the neutral zone to attack, either against the original attackers or
new defenders.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20090928081416212

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

CROSS-ICE GAME STRESSING EYE ON THE PUCK/GOOD POSTURE
A fundamental rule is that the players must always face the puck during a game. Everything that happens
in hockey is in relation to the puck. The players must see the puck in order to know their playing role and be able to switch from 1 role to the other. This helps eliminate unnecessary turns and useless skating. At the same time the coach can emphasize the proper skating posture, so that players are always in the ready position.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20090928081418601

D, ROLE 1: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

GAME USING ONLY THE FOREHAND
Play a game where the puck can be controlled only by using the forehand side of the blade. The game affects not only puck-handling but also the movement of the player’s lower body. When the player changes direction he/she must skate around the puck on the backhand side, this causes the hips and shoulders to go in different directions. It is also a good rule for learning to pull the puck toward the skates, to beat a player or prepare to shoot.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20090928082640425

3. D. ROLE 1: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

GAME USING ONLY THE BACKHAND
Play a game where the puck can be controlled by using only the backhand side of the blade. The
game affects not only puck-handling but also the movement of the player’s lower body. When the
player changes the direction he/she must skate around the puck on the forehand side, this causes
the hips and shoulders to go in different directions.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20090928082641103

D, ROLE 1: PUCK-PROTECTION SKILL: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

GAME HOLDING THE STICK WITH ONLY THE TOP HAND AND PROTECTING THE PUCK
The players are only allowed to hold the stick with 1 hand. This causes them to set up a wall to protect
the puck with the body, and skate to open ice away from pressure.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20090928082642641

D, ROLE 1: STICK-HANDLING SKILL GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

GAME WITH HANDS CLOSE TOGETHER NEAR THE TOP OF THE STICK
Play a CROSS-ICE game of 1-on-1. The rule is the hands must be close together at the top of the stick. This enables the puck carrier to make big moves, roll the wrists and manipulate the puck more easily.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20090928082644920

D, ROLE 1 AND 3: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

KEEP-AWAY
Play keep-away in 1 zone. The players protect their puck and try to knock other pucks out of the zone.
The last player with a puck is the winner.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20090928083629755

D, ROLE 1: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

FLAT-FOOTED SKATING
Play cross-ice or half-ice allowing only flat-footed toe-out, toe-in skating, where the blades never
leave the ice. This is a good strengthening exercise and good practice in toeing in and out, as well as
unlocking the hips while skating.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20090928083630814

D, ROLE 1: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

GAME WITH LEGS WIDE APART WHILE FAKING
The player tries to combine the lessons learned in the other games. When he approaches the opponent
he should have hands close together, legs wide apart, use head and shoulder fakes and protect the
puck with the body. Pressure on the inside edge of 1 skate enables the player to turn very quickly.

http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20090928083631305

D, ROLE 1: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

“NO-PASSING” GAME OF SHINNY WITH MANY PLAYERS
Play with large teams using “no-passing” rule. The player with the puck must try to score by stickhandling
the puck through everyone. This game demands that each player practice the first playing
role of the player with the puck, and move his or her feet, pivot, fake, drive-skate to open ice, etc.

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D, 4 PLAYING ROLES: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

GAME STRESSING THE 4 GAMESITUATION PLAYING ROLES
Play a game and remind the players that they always have something to do during a shift:
1. Player with puck.
2. Offensive player without puck.
3. Defender covering puck carrier.
4. Defensive player covering pass receiver.
When a “0” or loose-puck situation occurs the players must consider whether they should think offence or defense first. Always protect against giving up odd-man rushes and give the first player to the puck close support for passes and defensive help.

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D, 4 PLAYING ROLES: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

2-ON-2, 3-ON-3, FULL-ICE GAMES
The best way of learning the 4 playing roles is to play 2-on-2 and 3-on-3 games. When playing these
full-ice games the normal rules, such as offsides, are enforced. These games with 2 or 3 players on a
side make it easy to isolate the individual or teamplay skills that the coach wants to work on. The small groups keep all of the players actively involved and the coach can easily point out the techniques or tactics that are being done properly, as well as those that need to be worked on. Organize by having the players line up along the boards in the neutral zone or sit in the players’ box. The shifts should be 30-40 seconds. Playing in small groups for 30-second shifts is a good way to practice support on offence and defense. Another option is to have the players change on their own when the puck is deep in the offensive zone.

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D, ROLES 1 AND 2: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

GAME WHERE THERE MUST BE AT LEAST 1 PASS BEFORE A GOAL COUNTS
In order to practice roles 1 and 2, make the rule that there must be at least 1 pass before a goal
counts. This rule encourages players to look for teammates and to get open for a pass.

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D, ROLES 1 AND 2: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

GAME ALLOWING ONLY 1 PASS
By allowing only 1 pass the player must try to score by drive-skating to the net and teammates must
support by screening, picking and going to the net for rebounds.

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D, ROLE 1: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

MOVING WITH THE PUCK GAME
Play a game with the rule that the players cannot pass the puck until they have taken 4 or 5 quick
strides to open ice. By drive-skating with the puck the player learns to find open ice, creates space for
him or herself and opens up new passing lanes. Drive-skating with the puck is fundamental for successful
individual and team play, and is one of the most important good habits to teach players.

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D, ROLE 1: GAMES TO TEACH THE GAME

QUICK HANDS AND FEET GAME
The development of the speed of the hands is often ignored when introducing hockey skills. When
playing in tight, crowded areas, both quick hands and quick feet, moving at maximum speed, are
needed for the player to escape to open ice. When the hands and feet both move there is a separation
of the upper and lower body motion, and this makes the player difficult to defend.

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D ORIENTATION FOR GAMES TO TEACH.pdf

'The Game is the Greatest Coach'
'Enjoy the Game'

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Re: D - Learning to Play the Game by Playing

By: TomM Likes: 0

Tuesday, September 18 2012 @ 03:29 PM GMT

D - Learning to Play the Game by Playing

This is a continuation of the theme of 'The Game is the Greatest Coach.' Teach the game by playing full and SAG games with good habits, skill and team play rules.

This is the way to develop creative problem solving players. The hard technique skills are the tools must be practiced in drills and then the games teach the soft skills of how to use the skills under game pressure and to solve the game situation problems.

This problem solving ability is what is lacking in most players and games are a teaching technique to help the players be expert problem solvers.

Most of this material was written by Juhani Wahlsten in collaboration with Vladimir Jursinov. Finnish and Russian IIHF Hall of Fame coaches.

The attached PDF has the diagrams.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
D, ORIENTATION: Learning the Game

GAMES TO INTRODUCE THE CONCEPTS OF OFFENSIVE POSITIONAL PLAY

A good way to teach the importance of the positional game is to play a game with wingers staying
on their side of the ice near the boards until they enter the offensive zone. The farthest they can
ever go is to the middle of the ice in any zone. When they have learned to stay on their wing, then
let the wing and center switch positions. Make sure that the center takes the wing’s position on the boards. To make sure the defense joins the play, goals are allowed only when the entire scoring team is over the blue line.

D, ORIENTATION: Learning the Game

GAMES TO INTRODUCE THE CONCEPTS OF DEFENSIVE POSITIONAL PLAY

The main idea of the defensive play is to maintain the defensive side between the attacker and the
net and protect the middle lane. In defensive zone coverage,make the player first funnel to the middle
in front of the net and then find his/her own man. A good rule to teach defensive zone coverage is for
the closest defender to go where the puck goes, and the other players play a box formation.

D, ROLE 1: Games to Teach the Game

RINGETTE WITH STICKS TURNED UPSIDE DOWN

The players turn their sticks upside down and play ringette using 1 ring in a full-ice game. Shifts of
5 players are used. Goals are scored by shooting the ring into the net. Make the rule that all players
must handle the ring before a goal counts. The ring is easier to carry than a puck, so the players use the
edges more when skating, and have more time to find an open teammate. This is also a great game to
teach angling, defensive side and checking because the ring is impossible to get if you simply stick check.

D, ROLES 3 AND 4: Games to Teach the Game

HALF-ICE GAME OF 3-ON-3 WITH THE DEFENDING TEAM SKATING BACKWARDS

In this game the entire defending team skates backwards and makes a defensive triangle in front of
their net, playing as if they were killing a penalty. The idea is to play so that every player protects the
middle lane facing the opponent, and stays on the defensive side between the opponent and the goal.

D, ORIENTATION – LEARNING AND TEACHING THE GAME

The main principle of learning is to move from simple to complex. This principle also applies when
learning to play hockey. The best place to develop hockey skills is on the ice. The countries that have
natural ice have a great advantage in learning to skate. In-line (roller) hockey, street and floor
hockey, and all ball games, especially goal-orientated games, help the player not only to learn the game,
but also how to use the techniques in the right time and the right place. The reality in most places
is that the young players seldom have the luxury of an expert as a coach. This is why we promote regular
and modified games as the greatest head coach and the best teacher.

D, FULL-ICE GAME WITH 45-60 SECOND SHIFTS: Games to Teach the Game

Break team into 2 teams of 2 lines.

Play full-ice with the rule that a player can only handle the puck for
3 seconds and then must pass. The coach blows the whistle and the next group of players who are
lined up along the boards come on. The player with the puck should pass to the new teammate coming on.

D100, FULL-ICE GAMES – THE EXTRA PLAYERS ON THE BOARDS: Games to Teach the Game

Play full-ice games of 1-on-1 to 4-on-4.

The extra players are located on the boards and can either be
actively playing (pass and receive) from their position or they passively wait for their turn. For a variation, allow a player to give and go pass with an extra player. If the play is successful he may join the play for the rest of the shift. All the players who give and go can join the play.

D, ORIENTATION: Games to Teach the Game

USING SMALL TEAMS WITH MODIFIED RULES TO LEARN TO PLAY

Use small teams in cross-ice, half-ice or full-ice games to learn the 4 playing roles. The extra players
can go to the bench or wait on the sides where they can participate by being passed to and passing,
or they can be passive and simply wait for their turn.

D, 4 PLAYING ROLES: Games to Teach the Game

GAMES TEACHING ALL 4 ROLES AND TRANSITION

Play 5 cross-ice games of 2-on-2. All 4 playing roles are practiced in a 2-on-2 game. During this game
the players continuously change their playing roles from a puck carrier (1) to offensive support (2) or
closest checker (3) and to the defensive support (4). Play for 2 minutes. At the end of the game have
the players leave the puck in the middle and return to their nets. Rotate the teams by moving down 1
goal and the end player going to the goal at the other end. Count the wins, ties and losses.

D, ORIENTATION: Learning the Game

THE NUMBER OF PASSES AND LEARNING THE GAME

A good way to teach the game is by defining how many passes the attacking team are required or
allowed to make. Play cross-ice games and limit the number of passes that can be used by the attacking
team. For example, the simple rule of not allowing return passes (the player can not pass back to the
passer), or saying that only 1 pass, 2 passes, or 1 pass per zone is allowed affects the reaction of
both offensive and defensive players. If only 1 pass is allowed, then the pass receiver must drive to the net (1), the defender must play a 1-on-1 (3), the supporting players can pick screen or go for rebounds (2),The other defenders cover the passing lanes and clear the front of the net (4).

D, 4 PLAYING ROLES: Games to Teach the Game

PLAYING A GAME WHERE THERE MUST BE AT LEAST 2 PASSES BEFORE A GOAL COUNTS:

There must be at least 2 passes before a goal counts. This teaches on-ice awareness, offensive
support and passing skills. On defense, 1 player should check the puck carrier, the other player
should cover the pass receiver, both from the defensive side. This practices the final 2 playing roles.

D. 3. ROLE 1: Playing Skills

GAME WITH THE PUCK CARRIER TAKING AT LEAST 4 OR 5 QUICK STRIDES TO OPEN ICE BEFORE PASSING

Game with at least 1 pass, but the puck carrier must take 4 or 5 quick strides to open ice before
passing or shooting. This is the most important habit the puck carrier can have. When you skate hard to open ice it gives time and space to make the next play.

D, ROLE 1: Playing Skills

GAME WITH WRIST PASSING ONLY

Wrist passes are more deceptive and easier to control than slap passes. Teach wrist passing by
playing a full-, cross- or half-ice game where only backhand or forehand wrist passes are allowed. If
a slap pass is made the other team gets the puck.

D, ROLES 2 AND 4: Playing Skills

FACEOFFS

In a controlled scrimmage, have faceoffs in all areas and teach offensive and defensive positioning and
coverage. A general rule is that you always protect the middle first, and usually wings cover defensemen,
center covers the center and defensemen cover wings. Picks, screens and stunting can also be practiced.

D, ROLE 1: Playing Skills

GAMES STRESSING WINNING LOOSE PUCKS IN THE OFFENSIVE ZONE

The closest player must go after “loose pucks” as quickly as possible. The other players support
according to their distance from the puck. To create these loose puck situations during a scrimmage,
dump the puck in from the neutral zone and forecheck.

D, ROLES 1 AND 3: Basic Skills - BODYCHECKING

GETTING USED TO BODY CONTACT

Play a game without sticks, similar to British Bulldog. 1 team skates through the other team, waiting in the neutral zone, that tries to block them from crossing the blue line. Take turns playing defense.

D, ROLES 1 AND 3: Basic Skills - BODYCHECKING

GETTING USED TO BODY CONTACT WHILE CARRYING A PUCK

Have a contest between 2 teams. 1 team waits in the neutral zone without sticks. The other team
tries to stickhandle through the neutral zone without getting bodychecked. Allow only legal checks.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Playing Skills - Escape Moves

PASSING WHILE SKATING BACKWARD:

Play a half-ice game or a game of keep-away where the puck carrier must skate backwards before passing. This practices protecting the puck, keeping the feet moving and pivoting. If you watch Sydney Crosby, this is one of his favorite moves. The puck carrier now sees 270 instead of 90 degrees. It also gives the passer more time and space to make a play.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Playing Skills - Escape Moves

PASSING AFTER MAKING A TIGHT TURN

Play a cross-, half- or full-ice game or a game of keep-away where the puck carrier must make a
tight turn before passing or shooting. This practices skate fakes, protecting the puck, keeping the feet
moving and pivoting. After the players get used to this move they may make either a full or a half pivot. This allows them to read the defensive pressure and adjust.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game

“GIVE-AND-GO” GAME

The first pass receiver must return the puck to the passer, who can then pass to another player, who
must now give-and-go. This game teaches players to support by following their pass. The give-and-go is the foundation of team play, so the player must learn to pass and break to open ice.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game

“GAME WITH NO “GIVE-AND-GO”

Game of 3-on-3 and more. The pass receiver cannot return the pass but must find another open player. This promotes support and split vision. Most players can see the teammates in front and to the side of them, but only the better players see the late players joining the play.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Playing Skills

PLAYING SKILLS ONE-TIMER SCORING GAME

Playing a cross-ice (D2) or half-ice game (D4) with the rule that goals only count if they are scored using a one-timer shot. Players must always face the puck and get into good shooting position before the pass comes. As players advance to higher levels there is less and less time and space to make plays. They have to be able to shoot quickly and hit the net.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Playing Skills

GAME WITH SWITCHING POSITIONS

Play a cross-ice (D2) or half-ice (D4) game. The rule in the game is that the offensive team must cross in front of the defenders at least once before scoring. This encourages the attackers to follow their pass, isolate the widest man and try to create a 2-on-1 situation. The defenders must talk to each other after they have decided whether to switch or keep playing the same attacker.

D, ALL PLAYING ROLES: Learning the Game

2-ON-2 FULL ICE PASSING-EACH ZONEGAME

Play a full-ice 2-on-2 game passing the puck once in each zone. If the puck is gained in the neutral zone
the players have to pass 2 times, if in offensive zone 1 time. After shooting in or taking a shot, 1 pass
game is played.

D, ALL PLAYING ROLES: Learning the Game

2-ON-2 REGROUPING GAME

A full-ice 2-on-2, 3-on-3 game in which the teams must regroup at least once before entering the offensive zone. This game works on close support and the breakout reads. It also teaches the players to maintain puck control. The rule is, “Don’t give the puck away; they have to take it from you.”

D. ROLE 3: Learning the Game

GAME STRESSING IMMEDIATE PRESSURE BY THE CLOSEST DEFENDER

In a small-area game, stress that the closest defenseman pressures the puck carrier. It is important
to get immediate pressure on the puck from the inside out. This delays the attack, deflects it wide and hurries the puck carrier into making mistakes. Deep in the zone the defender must quickly close the gap and make contact. If the defender is not in good control of the puck, and if the offensive player has good control, then maintain the defensive side by stopping and going back while staying on the defensive side.

D. ROLE 3: Learning the Game

GAME OF 1-ON-1 STRESSING THE DEFENSIVE SIDE

The players play a full-, half -or cross-ice game, but the defender learns that he or she knows where
the puck carrier is going – to the net. The coach teaches the defender to always stay between the
puck carrier and the defender’s goal. This is the first step in teaching good defensive technique. When backchecking the defender must keep the attacker on the outside, to stay on the defensive side.

D, ROLES 3 AND 4: Learning the Game

GAME WITH STICKS UPSIDE DOWN IN THE DEFENSIVE ZONE

A good teaching technique is to practice defense while holding the sticks upside down in the defensive
zone. This helps the players to focus on staying between their check and the net, with their shoulders square to the puck carrier. They must stop and start, and learn to always play the body deep in their own zone. The coach can blow the whistle and signal that the sticks may be held properly, and the other team can defend with their sticks upside down.

D, ROLES 3 AND 4: Learning the Game

DEFENDING THE SLOT

Play a full-ice game of 2-on-2, 3-on-3, 4-on-4, 5-on-5, with shifts of 30 to 60 seconds. The main principle
of defending is simple. It is to control the slot area in front of your goal. Concentrate on determining who is covering each attacker by the red line and deflect the puck out of the middle lane. All players maintain defensive-side body position and keep sticks in the passing lanes.

D, ROLES 3 AND 4: Learning the Game

COMING BACK DEEP IN A FULL-ICE GAME OF 2-ON-2 OR 3-3

The coach emphasizes that the closest checker gives immediate pressure on the puck carrier and deflects the attack from the middle. The second player in the zone supports from the front of the net. The third player covers the point and picks up the attacking third player if he joins the play deep in the zone. It is important for the defenders to stay with their checks and not chase the puck.

D, ALL PLAYING ROLES: Learning the Game

2-ON-2, 3-ON-3, LEAVING THE ZONE AFTER THE PUCK GAME

In this game the puck must go out of the zone before any of the players who are breaking out. This game causes the offensive unit to play compactly and allows short breakout passes. In a turnover situation the defending team has the whole unit in a good position to defend.

D, ORIENTATION: Learning the Game

LEARNING THE PLAYING ROLES IN 3 ZONES

To teach the player roles in all 3 zones, play a full-ice game of 5-on-5 but leave various numbers of
players in the neutral zone. To create a 5-on-4, 1 player on the defending team stays outside of the
blue line in the neutral zone. If 2 defending players stay then it would be a 5-on-3. If 1 from each team
it is a 4-on-4; 2 from the defending team and 1 from the attacking team is a 4-on-3. Pass the puck up to the player in the neutral zone, then the play goes the other way with the same number of players waiting in the neutral zone.

D, ORIENTATION: Learning the Game

PLAYING ON 1 GOAL

Play a half-ice 1-on-1, 2-on-2, 3-on-3, 4-on-4, 5-on-5 or any odd-numbered situation to practice the 4
player roles, the rules and transition from offence to defense. The unit that gains the puck either plays
the puck to neutral zone to a new unit, or they must carry the puck and all players get onside before entering the zone again. The other option is to have the attacking team pass twice before they can score. All of these rules give sufficient time for the opponent to regroup for defense.

D, ROLES 1, 2 AND 3: Learning the Game

HALF-ICE TRANSITION GAME OF 1-ON-1 THEN 1-ON-2

Part One:
1 offensive player attacks 1-on-1 versus a defender. A backchecker follows the play from the boards and gives defensive support from a few meters away on the defensive side, (a).

Part Two:
When the defense regains the puck the backchecker skates to the red line and turns back, trying to score on a new defender who has skated from the lineup on the boards, and plays a defensive 1-on-1, (b).
To work on all 4 roles, you can do this as a 2-on-2 with 2 defenders supporting and then going on offense versus the original attackers.

Variation:
To enable the defender to get into the neutral zone, the original backchecker skates to the far blue line before turning back to attack.

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D Learning the Game.pdf

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'Enjoy the Game'

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Re: Learning the Game Using Games

By: TomM Likes: 0

Wednesday, September 19 2012 @ 04:53 PM GMT

Learning the Game Using Games

D, ALL 4 ROLES: Learning the Game
CHANGE ON FLY
Practice changing lines on the fly. When a new line goes out they defend, attack, defend, shoot the puck
into the corner farthest from their bench. If they have trouble getting the puck out on the first rush, then
dump the puck in on first rush and change.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
OFFENSIVE POSSESSION BEHIND THE OPPONENT’S NET
When the puck is behind the opponent’s net number 2 and 3 should move toward the faceoff dots where
it is hard for defenders to cover, or they can screen the defensemen. An offensive defenseman can move
into the slot for a pass.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
GAME WITH CYCLING IN THE OFFENSIVE CORNER
To create space from the corner the puck carrier (1) skates up the boards, if he or she is pressured, pass
back to the corner and the player in front of the net (2) gets the puck. The original passer (1) skates to the
high slot and becomes number 3. Number 3 goes to the front of the net and replaces number 2, (a).
Rotate the other way if the first pass is made away from the net, (b).

D, ROLE 3: Learning the Game
GAME PRACTICING DEFENDING THE PLAY OUT OF THE CORNER
In this game the rule is that goals only count if they are started by plays originating from the offensive
corners. The closest player defends the attack out of the corner. If he or she reads that the opponent
is not in full control of the puck, or has his or her back to the play, the defender should play the body
by wrapping the stick around on the puck and keep the free hand on the back hip.

D, ROLES 3 AND 4: Learning the Game
ALL 5 HAVE THE PUCK IN FRONT OF THEM
This is the strongest defensive position to be in as no one is trapped behind the play. This is a passive
forechecking style that allows the offense to turn the puck up ice, deflect the puck to an outside lane and
outnumber the attackers. Whenever the puck is above the circles in the defensive zone it must be cleared
over the blue line. When pressured high in the offensive zone, dump the puck into the corner or behind
the net. It is a safe play to make when only high-risk offensive options are available to the puck carrier.

D, ROLES 3 AND 4: Learning the Game
DEFENSIVE ZONE COVERAGE
Play a 2-on-2, 3-on-3,4-on-4 or 5-on-5 game focusing on defensive coverage. • The defending players
stay between the puck and the goal, force the puck wide, finish checks, cover their checks, and create
immediate pressure on the puck from inside to outside. All players have a 1-on-1 responsibility in their
own zone. If a defender loses a 1-on-1, then the supporting player defends a 1-on-2. He doesn’t chase
the puck and leave his player uncovered.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
REGROUPING
Play a 3-on-3 or 4-on-4 game and have the offensive team turn back and regroup in the neutral zone at
least once before crossing the offensive blue line. This game practices puck control, offensive support
and not giving away the puck. Many times the defenders slow down or stop. This creates big gaps of
which the attackers can take advantage
.
D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
REGROUPING WITH A STRETCH MAN
Play a 3-on-3 or 4-on-4 game. Have the offensive team turn back and regroup in the neutral zone at least
once before crossing the offensive blue line. All but 1 player should come back to regroup. 1 player stays
high and stretches the opponent’s defense.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
FULL-ICE SHOOT-IN GAME
Play a full-ice game of 3-on-3 or 4-on-4 and practice the forecheck by dumping the puck into the offensive
zone after crossing the red line. After the shoot-in a maximum of 2 passes are allowed before taking a
shot.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
GAME WITH NO PASSING ALLOWED IN THE OFFENSIVE ZONE
The player is not allowed to pass but must try to score after crossing the offensive blue line. This game is
designed to work on going to the net. It also forces the defenders to stay on the defensive side and work
on controlling players driving to the net. The supporting offensive players should pick, screen and go for
rebounds.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
4-ON-4 FULL-ICE PASSING ON EACH ZONE GAME
Play a full-ice 4-on-4 game with the rule that there must be 1 pass in each zone. If the puck is gained in
the neutral zone the players have to pass twice, if in the offensive zone once. After shooting in or shot 1
pass game is played.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
FULL-ICE 4-ON-4 WITH A CONTINUOUS 2-ON-2, 2 PLAYERS OF BOTH TEAMS WAITING IN THE NEUTRAL ZONE
Start with 4-on-4 game. When the puck is over the blue line 2 players from each team wait in the neutral
zone. Once the defending team gains the puck, they pass the puck to the neutral zone and the other
2-on-2 is played toward the other goal. The original defenders and attackers follow to the neutral zone
and go in the other direction when they get a pass. Time the shifts, or have the players in the neutral zone
change on the go after they have attacked and defended once.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
FULL-ICE GAME LEAVING THE DEFENSIVE ZONE AFTER THE PUCKPlay a full-ice 3-on-3 or 4-on-4 game with the rule that the attacking players cannot leave their zone until the puck is over the blue line. This rule forces the players to come back deep and save ice, support the puck and not leave their defensive zone too early.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
FULL-ICE GAME, 1 PLAYER LEAVING THE DEFENSIVE ZONE BEFORE THE PUCK
To create depth in the attack, play a full-ice 3-on-3 or 4-on-4 game with the rule that the farthest player
from the puck can leave the zone before the puck is over the blue line. This stretch man must only go if
he sees that the puck carrier has complete control and will have time to look up the ice.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
FULL-ICE WITH NO PASSING UNTIL YOU HAVE GAINED A ZONE
Play a full-ice 3-on-3 or 4-on-4 game with the rule that the player cannot pass until he or she has gained a
zone. This forces the puck carrier to drive-skate to open ice with the puck and practice his or her moves.
1 pass is allowed in the offensive zone.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
ALL THE PLAYERS HAVE TO TOUCH THE PUCK BEFORE SCORING
Play a full-ice game of 3-on-3 or 4-on-4 in which all the players have to touch the puck before scoring.
This game practices passing and receiving skills and creates the need for close support, requiring the
puck carrier to look around for teammates who must be passed to before a shot can be taken.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
ALL GOALS MUST BE STARTED BY PLAYS FROM THE DEFENCEMEN
Play a half- or full-ice game and only allow goals scored where the original shot or shot pass is from
the point. This encourages the unit to be compact when attacking and the defense to support the play.
The forwards must screen and fight for rebounds. The defense should drag the puck inside the dots
before shooting. It also creates a situation where the backcheckers must cover the points.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
GAME THAT TEACHES CLOSE SUPPORT
Play a full-, cross- or half-ice game but only allow 2 or 3 stick touches, or 1 or 2 seconds with the puck
before passing or shooting. This helps the players to develop split vision and teaches them to look
around before they get the puck. It also forces everyone to support the puck carrier. • Add the rule that
only one-timer shots can be used. This requires that the shooter is ready before the puck gets there.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
PASSING TO THE CLOSEST TEAMMATE
The player with the puck must pass to his or her closest teammate. This causes players to come
back to the puck or support the puck carrier more closely. It also practices making the easy play.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
GAME WITH 7 TO 10 CONSECUTIVE PASSES IN 1 ZONE
Points are given to the teams of maximum 4 players, playing a half-ice game (D4), that can make 7 to
10 consecutive passes. At a more advanced level no return passes are allowed. • Designate what type of
pass must be used, e.g., backhand.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
PLAYING A PUCK-CONTROL GAME
To develop a flow-type of team offense, play games that concentrate on puck control. In this scrimmage
the point is not to score until all players have handled the puck in the offensive zone, while the players
interchange positions following the principles of offense, using width, depth and support at all times. This
game teaches the players to read the play and move into open lanes and supporting positions.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Learning the Game
PUCK-CONTROL GAMES 1-ON-1, 2-ON-2, 3-ON-3 KEEP-AWAY IN HALF OF THE RINK
To develop a flow-type of team offense, play keepaway games that concentrate on puck control. The
game is played as a half-ice game with no net. Start 1-on-1 for 30 seconds. The puck carrier has to
keep the puck away from the opponent by keeping his feet moving, making tight turns and protecting
the puck. After all the players have had 1 turn, play 2-on-2 and then 3-on-3.
• Play 2-on-2 or 3-on-3 keep-away games with all the players active and use these rules:
1. Hold the stick with only 1 hand.
2. Hands close together at the top of the stick and legs wide apart.
3. Players can only use a certain kind of pass, e.g., saucer pass.

D, ROLES 1 AND 2: Orientation
PRACTICE GAME SITUATIONS BY HAVING PLAYERS WAIT IN THE NEUTRAL ZONE
In order to create the various situations that happen in a hockey game, play 5-on-5 and have players
wait in the neutral zone. For example is: practice 3-on-3 at 1 end and 2-on-2 at the other end by having
the last 2 backcheckers and the attacking defensemen wait for the puck in the neutral zone. The other 3
players on each team play 3-on-3 inside the blue line. When the forwards get a clearing pass from their
teammates, who just defended in the 2-on-2 situation, they attack the other net 2-on-2 and the players
who played the 3-on-3 wait in the neutral zone or are replaced by new players. This game can have time
shifts or new players rotate in and wait in the neutral zone after they have attacked and defended once.
The coach can use this method to create even or odd-numbered situations, i.e., continuous 3-on-2 or 2-
on-3.

D, Roles 1-2-3-4: Four Game Playing Roles
POWER-PLAY AND SPECIALITY TEAMS: HALF-ICE 5-ON-5, 5-ON-4 WITH 1 PLAYER IN NEUTRAL ZONE
To practice the power play and penalty killing, play a game of 5-on-5 but leave 1 player on the defending
team in the neutral zone. Alternate who waits in the neutral zone so all players learn to kill penalties.

D, Roles 1-2-3-4: Four Game Playing Roles
HALF-ICE 5-ON-5, 5-ON-3 WITH 2 PLAYERS IN NEUTRAL ZONE
To practice the power play and penalty killing, play a game of 5-on-5 but leave 2 players on the defending
team in the neutral zone. Alternate who waits in the neutral zone so all players learn to kill penalties. If
your team uses 2 defensemen when 2 men short, then 2 forwards stay outside of the zone. If 2 forwards
are used on the kill, then 1 forward and 1 defenseman wait in the neutral zone.

D, Roles 1-2-3-4: Four Game Playing Roles
HALF-ICE 4-ON-4, 4-ON-3 WITH 1 PLAYER IN NEUTRAL ZONE
To practice the power play and penalty killing, play a game of 4-on-4 but leave 1 player on the defending
team in the neutral zone. Alternate who waits in the neutral zone so all players learn to kill penalties. If
your team uses 2 defensemen when 2 men short, then 1 forward stays outside of the zone. If 2 forwards
are used on the kill, then 1 defenseman waits in the neutral zone. 1 player on the defending team stays in
the neutral zone. This allows 2 units to work on power play and penalty killing. Alternate who waits in the
neutral zone so all players learn to kill penalties.

D, Roles 3 and 4
DEFENDING THE SLOT WITH A PASSIVE BOX AND 1
• Play a game inside the blue line. The defensive team stands in the slot area in a 2-1-2 formation. They are in a tight box with 1 forward in the middle. The defenders are only allowed to take 1 stride.
• If the puck is coming out of the corner the defenseman takes 1 step toward the puck and the forward in the middle fills the corner of the box. The weak-side forward sags into the slot and the strong-side forward collapses down 1 stride.
• The offensive team can do anything it wants to score. The defenders keep their sticks in the passing lanes, play the body, control the attackers’ sticks in the slot and fight for rebounds. Have the same thing going on at both ends. The offense gets 1 minute to score, then switch and allow the defense to attack.
• The main principle of defending is simple; it is to control the slot area in front of your goal.
• When teaching defensive zone coverage the coach should show the players where to skate back to in
order to protect the slot area.
• Defend from inside out, always staying between the opponent and the net. As the puck gets closer to the goal more man-to-man coverage is used on players without the puck. The slot area is where the defenders skate to on defense, trying to force the puck to the outside and up the boards. (Bob Murdoch)

D, Roles 3 and 4
ONE-THIRD ICE GAME WITH AGGRESSIVE 2-1-2 DEFENSE
The defense sets up in a tight box with 1 forward in the middle. The description of the 1 checker
pressure and a box behind follows:
• The offense starts with the puck at the blue line.
• The closest defensive player pressures the puck from the inside out and makes contact with the attacker.
• When the defender does this the middle forward rotates to his or her place at the puck-side corner of the box and all the defenders move to the strong (puck) side of the ice. Deep in the zone, usually 1 defenseman checks the puck carrier; 1 defenseman covers the attacker in front of the net; the first backchecker backs up the defender in the corner; the second backchecker covers the mid slot and weak-side point and the last backchecker covers the strong-side point. If the first forward back is checking the puck carrier, then the strong-side defenseman is in a low support position.
• The remaining 4 players have sticks in the passing lanes and are on the defensive side of the offensive
players.
• When pressuring the puck the defender skates in straight lines and always finishes checks. The middle forward supports the 2-on-1 attack from the inside of the box, always in a position to maintain the defensive side of the check while supporting the first checker. When the play goes to another area the closest player forces the play in the same way. All players are responsible to cover 1 attacker and defend a 2-on-1 if a teammate is beaten.
• If the defenders maintain this tight box and create immediate pressure by the closest defender on the
attackers, they will be able to control the slot area in front of their net. (Bob Murdoch)

D4, Roles 1-2-3-4
A GAME BATTLING FOR LOOSE PUCKS
The D4 game is played in 1 zone. The players from each team line up behind the faceoff dot just outside
of the blue line. The coach stands with pucks just outside of the blue line, in the middle of the rink. The
first player in line on each team moves forward just inside the blue line and plays the point. On the whistle,
1, 2 or 3 players from each team; or varying numbers of players, up to 3 from each team, go after a puck
that is shot into the zone by the coach. The active players can pass to the pointman who must shoot or
pass, but can’t skate deep into the zone or on the other half of the ice.
When the defending team gets the puck they have to pass to their point before they can attack. Play
shifts of 30-60 seconds, then blow the whistle and shoot in another puck.
(Art Krusel)

Learning the Game Using Games.pdf

'The Game is the Greatest Coach'
'Enjoy the Game'

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TomM

Registered: 06/25/08

Posts: 3566

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Re: Game Video from Hockeycoachingabcs

By: TomM Likes: 0

Thursday, September 20 2012 @ 02:51 PM GMT

Game Video from Hockeycoachingabcs.com.pdf

'The Game is the Greatest Coach'
'Enjoy the Game'

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TomM

Registered: 06/25/08

Posts: 3566

Location: Calgary, Canada

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Re: Modified Rules to 'TEACH THE GAME'

By: TomM Likes: 0

Monday, September 24 2012 @ 09:18 PM GMT

I had a long conversation with Mike Hartman last night. He is a former NHL player, Stanley Cup winner who has done a lot of coaching for USA Hockey and with pro's etc.

The topic turned to the small games model that is being promoted now. We both agreed that for these games to be effective they must have a purpose. An effective way to use games to teach the game is to have special rules. These rules focus on a skill, good habit, team work, or any part of the game you want to isolate.

My class today did some games using cross ice and then a variation with one 2/3 ice and one 1/3 ice game happening at the same time. We played 3 games and each had a purpose. Before the games we worked on puck handling and loosening the shoulders with big moves.

Game One: D2 - cross ice game with the rules there must be at least 2 passes but you have to beat a defender before passing.

Game Two - cross ice game D2 - Only 1 pass Allowed Receiver must score.

Game Three - D6 Variation 2 - Two Passes and All Must Score before you can score a second goal.

Game one encourages passing and getting open but in order to beat a defender you must skate away from them to open ice. This is the most important habit a player can have when they get the puck.

Game Two allows one pass, so a fake pass is an effective move. Theme of the practice is stickhandling and the pass receiver must make moves, dekes and protect the puck in order to score.

Game Three passing rule causes passing, getting open, covering away from the puck to happen. All must score forces everyone to participate hard and get open so they can score. It also requires the players to get their head up and do things like screen away from the puck.

I was taking the video so no coach was enforcing the rules in two of the games. The older players are used to modified rules and were doing them. The beginner group has more trouble because they are struggling with the basic skating and puck handling but it is good to teach them how to play at the same time.

So rules must be enforced to be effective.

Here is a video of the three games.
http://www.hockeycoachingabcs.com/mediagallery/media.php?f=0&sort=0&s=20120924155404927

The basic format I use with this group in the 60 minutes is.
- 10 minutes - individual choice, they can shoot, pass or play games.
- 20 minutes - instruction and drills for the day's lesson.
- 30 minutes - games and contests where they use the skill vs opposition. We use many nets and many games at one time.

This group wll get 56 one hour ice times over 10 months and it costs them about $700 each. They also have an off ice class at the school each week with their teacher.

D2 and D6 Variation Game Formations.jpg

'The Game is the Greatest Coach'
'Enjoy the Game'

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TomM