A1 Basic Skating Formation
In this basic formation, that is primarily used for skating exercises, the players are lined up
along the sideboards. The exercises are done with either one or two groups.
Teaching points:
A1 is the most basic of all the formations, and is used first in the teaching system because the
skating distance is short. Divide the players into small groups so the players have room to
maneuver without colliding. Groups may be formed in a variety of ways: according to the
colours of their jersey, by numbering the players, etc. When the first group has reached the
opposite boards, then the next group leaves. Once all the skaters have crossed the ice, the
groups may repeat the same methods back the other way.