Team Play Package

Coach 2 – Coach Level

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 UNDER 17 TECHNICAL CURRICULUM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................... 3

TEAM TACTICS AND PRINCIPLES THAT GOVERN PLAY ....................................................... 4

INTRODUCTION: DEFENSIVE ZONE PLAY ............................................................................... 6

Defensive Zone Coverage ......................................................................................................... 7
Defensive Zone Coverage Drills .....................................................................................................................8
Key Points................................................................................................................................ 10

INTRODUCTION: NEUTRAL ZONE COVERAGE ..................................................................... 11

Neutral Zone Forecheck 1-2-2 Press....................................................................................... 12

INTRODUCTION: OFFENSIVE ZONE FORECHECK................................................................ 13

Offensive Zone Forecheck 1-2-2 Press ................................................................................... 14
Neutral / Offensive Zone Forecheck Drills ............................................................................... 15
Key Points................................................................................................................................ 16

INTRODUCTION: TRANSITION ................................................................................................. 17

Neutral Zone Transition ........................................................................................................... 18
Transition Drills ........................................................................................................................ 19
Key Points................................................................................................................................ 21

INTRODUCTION: TRACKING .................................................................................................... 22

Tracking ................................................................................................................................... 23
Tracking Drills .......................................................................................................................... 23
Key Points................................................................................................................................ 23

INTRODUCTION: BREAKOUTS ................................................................................................ 24

Breakouts................................................................................................................................. 25
Breakout Drills ......................................................................................................................... 26
Key Points................................................................................................................................ 30

INTRODUCTION: ENTRIES ....................................................................................................... 31

Entries...................................................................................................................................... 32
Entries Drills............................................................................................................................. 33
Key Points................................................................................................................................ 36

INTRODUCTION: OFFENSIVE ZONE PLAY ............................................................................. 37

Offensive Zone Play ................................................................................................................ 38
Offensive Zone Play Drills ....................................................................................................... 39
Key Points ........................................................................................................................................................... 40

INTRODUCTION: SPECIAL TEAMS .......................................................................................... 42

Power Play Breakouts ............................................................................................................. 41
Power Play Offensive Zone Setups ......................................................................................... 46
Penalty Killing Forechecks....................................................................................................... 52
Penalty Killing in Defensive Zone ............................................................................................ 53

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INTRODUCTION
This manual provides a foundation for the preparation of Canadian players and coaches through their
participation in the Program of Excellence. This technical curriculum is intended as a guide and resource for
Branch technical preparation and should not be viewed as an instructional manual that binds each coach.
The information contained in this document provides a framework that will enable a coach to implement his
own technical package at the Branch level.

This package was developed by former National Team coaches that have experience at each level of the
Program of Excellence. Hockey Canada is indebted to these coaches that have taken a concept and built a
foundation for future success.

In comparing the Program of Excellence to the Canadian High School system, a coach at the U17 Level
has an obligation to prepare a U17 for the National U18 Program the same as a Grade 10 teacher prepares
a student for grade 11. The grade 11 teacher then prepares students for grade 12 in the same way an U18
coach prepares players for the National Junior team. Each coach and each teacher must follow a
curriculum framework that prepares players or students with the best opportunity for success at the next
level.
By implementing this technical curriculum at the U17 Branch level, Hockey Canada is building a foundation
for athletes to succeed with our National Teams. While it should be the goal of each provincial/regional
team to be successful at the Canada Winter Games and World Under 17 Hockey Challenge, the player
development process should be at the forefront of program operations and this development component
must not be compromised. This commitment to preparing provincial and regional team athletes is the
cornerstone for future World Junior, Senior World and Olympic Champions.
TEAM TACTICS AND PRINCIPLES THAT GOVERN PLAY
Principles are general rules or laws which govern and guide the application of team tactics,
systems, and strategies.

Four Principles govern offensive and defensive team play:

Offensive Defensive

 Pressure  Pressure

 Puck Control  Stall/Contain

 Support  Support

 Transition  Transition

In review of the principles that guide offensive and defensive team play, it should be understood
that each of these principles must work inter-dependently of one another. For example,
offensive transition can only lead to a quick and effective counteract if there is immediate
pressure, good puck control and excellent offensive support away from the puck. If this does not
occur, it is possible the opposing team may regain possession of the puck and the attacking
team, after giving up possession, is now forced to demonstrate effective defensive transition.

Pressure - Offensive

Offensive pressure is created through a quick player and/or puck movement that forces the
defender to react more quickly or in a different direction than they would like. The goal of
pressure is to create increased time and space for the attackers.

Pressure - Defensive

Defensive pressure is created through a quick player movement that forces the offensive player
to react more quickly or in a different direction than they would like. The goal of pressure is to
decrease time and space for the attackers.
Puck Control - Offensive

Offensive pressure is created through a quick player and/or puck movement that forces the
defender to react more quickly or in a different direction than they would like. The goal of
pressure is to create increased time and space for the attackers.

Stall / Contain - Defensive

The principle of defensive play where the defensive team will attempt to force the opponent to
stop or slow down the speed of an attack to provide time to set up better defensive coverage.
This is accomplished by pressuring the puck carrier or deflecting the attack to the outside
lanes/ice.

Support - Offensive

To provide offense, offensive players away from the puck must be available as passing options
and be a part of the attack. Players must be able to read the intentions of their defensive
counterparts and at the same time read and anticipate the movements and the possibilities of
the puck carrier.

Support - Defensive

The player defending against the puck carrier requires the support of teammates to ensure that
they are active away from the puck carrier and position themselves in a manner that will
eliminate the options of the puck carrier. Players must be able to read the offensive options
available to the puck carrier and move to a position that minimizes or takes away these options.

Transition - Offensive

Offensive transition is measured in a teams’ ability to move quickly from defense to offense
when the puck is recovered. All players must be prepared to move quickly to the attack.

Transition - Defensive
Defensive transition is measured in a teams’ ability to move quickly from offense to defense
should a turnover occur and the opposing team moves quickly to the attack.
INTRODUCTION: DEFENSIVE ZONE PLAY

The key to any successful defensive system begins with proper positioning by the players involved.
On the international ice surface, there is 15 feet of ice added to the width of the rink, and that good
position is critical when defending.

Using the key concept of protecting the middle of the ice, then pressure out from there, players will
have a foundation from which to start with. To do this it is important to identify a home base (see
diagram) which is the most critical ice to protect. Strong net front coverage is essential since teams
in international competition have the tendency to work the puck back to the middle before shooting
instead of taking the shot from outside. With good positioning, there is no need to chase because
international teams will bring the puck to the middle. Patience is an important virtue when defending
against the attack.

Protecting the middle is essential, but it is important to continue using the principles of pressure to
take away time and space and to force the opposition into making poor decisions. The Canadian
game plan will always be aggressive and physical all over the ice, but especially when defending in
the defensive zone. However, physical play should never override good defensive positioning.

Play away from the puck is important. As much as players must be prepared to pressure the puck in
one on one situations, support away from the one on one is critical. All players must work as a unit
and be prepared to defend as a group of five. Communication is a key component in ensuring
everyone is clear on their responsibilities and provides support and direction to one another.
Defensive Zone Coverage

Drill Name & Description

Introduction X D1
F2
F1
 D1 plays X, hit or contain depending on gap.
 F1 plays support for D1. D2
F3
 F2 plays inside out and up on strong side D.
 F3 helps D2 and plays outside on opposing week
side D.
 D2 takes front of the net.

Drill Name & Description

Rotation

 D1 comes back to net.

 D2 checks off for D1. Unless 100% sure he can
get the puck, he must stay until D1 reaches net.
 F2 to high slot. D1 F2
 F3 to strong side point, inside out.
 F1 support other corner from front of the net.
F1 F3
D2
X

Drill Name & Description

Shade vs Overload

 Net front D shades toward opposing 3rd forward

taking away his space. He is still able to provide
help for D2 or F1 if they get in trouble.
 F2 drops down to protect deeper into slot. F2

D1
F1 F3
X
D2
X
X
Defensive Zone Coverage Drills

Drill Name & Description

1 vs 1 Gap

 1 vs 1 out of corner where the coach spots a puck X

to the offensive player. C
 Defensive player needs to get the appropriate
angle and close his gap to defend the offensive
player.

Key Teaching Points

 First 3 steps by defender are quick and to get the
best position.
 Defender leads with his stick on the puck.
 Stay on defensive side.

Drill Name & Description

1 vs 1 No Gap X

 Defender works to pin his man since there is no C

gap.

Key Teaching Points

 Stick on puck.
 Stay on defensive side.

Drill Name & Description

2 vs 2 Hinge Rotation
X
X
 2 defenders on 2 offensive players.
 Passive drill where 2 defending players move from
pressure to support positions on puck movement.

Key Teaching Points

 Communicate.
 Stick on puck.
 Support one stick length.
 Straight line skating.
Drill Name & Description
2 vs 2 Gap / No Gap

 See 1 vs 1 gap, no gap.

X X C

Key Teaching Points

 Stick on puck.
C
 Good angles to close gaps.
 Communicate.
 Straight line skating on rotation. X
X

Drill Name & Description

3 vs 3 Shade
X X
 2 vs 2 passive in corner.
 Net front man shades to where the offensive “3rd
man” goes. X

Key Teaching Points

 Head on a swivel.
 Communicate.
 Stay between “3rd man” and net.
 Shade about half way to your man.

Drill Name & Description

3 vs 3 Shade

 Gap, no gap. X C
X
Key Teaching Points X
 Move quick to defend.
 Good angles.
 Communicate responsibilities.
Drill Name & Description
5 vs 5 Rotation
X X X
 Passive coverage to an imaginary offense. X
 Rotate on coaches’ command.

Key Teaching Points X

 Back side forward drops between hash marks to
protect net front when net front defense shades.
 Net front defense does not leave until partner
takes net front.

Key Points

 First man on puck carrier approaches his man quickly with stick on puck and play the
body.
 Support man must stay off the pile (about stick length) and communicate to man on puck
carrier. His stick should be on the ice.
 Players must skate in straight lines. Reload to middle if you lose position.
 Strong net front coverage.
 Communicate
 Provide outlets on puck recovery.
INTRODUCTION: NEUTRAL ZONE COVERAGE

Coverage in the neutral zone is critical to successfully defending in the international game since
most countries rely heavily on the counter strike mentality. They will want to re-attack quickly
and penetrate the middle lane if possible, since they are not as comfortable with the puck to the
outside. Therefore it is imperative that we protect the middle of the ice and push the puck to the
outside. In the past, some teams have used the mindset of checking from the dots out. This has
proven to be a very effective tool since the width of the dots on international ice is identical to
that of regulation ice surfaces in Canada. Therefore players are familiar with this, and familiarity
often breeds confidence since it is an easy reference point to work from.

For us to forecheck through the neutral zone effectively we must work as a group of five players.
The first forward on the forecheck must work very hard to get pressure on the puck so that he
forces a poor decision. To get the necessary pressure on the puck, we encourage a three man
race to be that first forward, while the two forwards who lose the race fill their roles. In this way
we will use the principles of pressure and support when applying our forecheck. This will serve
to eliminate any gaps in the forecheck that can appear when all five players are not working
together. When the forecheck is forced to rotate, players must move quickly to their position in
order to defend the next pass.

Stick placement is very useful when forechecking through the neutral zone since a well placed
stick will deter a pass through the middle and often times intercept a pass leading to a quick
transition to offense.
Neutral Zone Forecheck 1-2-2 Press

Drill Name & Description

Introduction

 F1 pressures hard up ice inside out and forces

D1 F3 X2
pass.
 F2 and F3 come up ice between dots and adjust
according to situation. They stay above opposing F1
wingers.
 D1 and D2 close gap but respect the stretch. D2 F2
X1

Drill Name & Description

Early Pass

 F1 plays inside out and forces X1 on early pass D1 F3 X2

and takes D to D away.
 F2 & F3 slide with puck movement and take away F1
boards and middle.
 D1 takes away strong side. D2 F2
 D2 takes away middle and far side. X1

Drill Name & Description

D carries
F3
D1 X2
 F1 pushes puck up the boards.
 F2 takes the boards and plays zone. F1
 F3 takes middle and plays zone.
 D2 takes boards and keeps people in front of him.
D2 F2
 D1 takes the middle and far side. X1
 F2 pinches off X1 and F1 supports.
INTRODUCTION: OFFENSIVE ZONE FORECHECK

An effective offensive zone forecheck is one of the most important tools any Canadian team can
have when they are involved in international competition. It is not only a key tactical tool, but it
also serves to help develop a trademark for the team. In the past it has been intimidating for
European teams to face an aggressive fore check, but in recent years the physical style of play,
while still very effective and necessary, has not been as intimidating to them. However, the fact
that they are forced to make good decisions plays under extreme pressure is as intimidating as
ever since they not accustomed to that style in their countries.

Most defense in the international game are not used to handling the extreme pressure we like to
use in our game. Therefore, pucks will be turned over if we force the opposition to make
decision quicker than they are used to doing. For this to be accomplished, we need to embrace
an attack mentality that encourages all five players to get up the ice and in position. The first
forward sets the tone and we encourage all three forwards to race to be that first man with race
ending at about the top of the circles in the offensive zone. Three players are difficult to screen
off and it gets everyone moving up the ice quickly. The defense must move up the ice and have
a very good gap, however, they are responsible to take the opposing forward if he stretches the
zone.

Canada has the reputation for having a very aggressive style of play and that is evident in the
way we fore check. The opposition expects us to come hard and we should make a point not to
disappoint them.

HOME BASE:
Offensive Zone Forecheck 1-2-2 Press

Drill Name & Description

Contact
D2
F3
 F1 pressures hard and tries to make contact
coming inside out on X1.
 F2 stays above X2 and is ready to jump to corner
to help on a turnover. F1
 F3 stays high and in the middle. F2
D1
 D1 and D2 get up on the blue line.
X1
X2

Drill Name & Description

Early Pass

 F1 reads and adjusts his skating pattern and D2

F3
remains the first fore checker. X2
 F2 takes away the middle.
 F3 adjusts and takes away the boards, staying
F1
above the puck.
F2
 D1 adjusts to strong side boards. D1
X1
 D2 adjusts to take away middle and wide lane.

Drill Name & Description

Late Pass

 F1 comes back hard through the middle. D2

F3
 F3 sees pass and jumps aggressively to X2, X2
looking to finish his check.
 F2 comes across to take away the board side
F1
wing.
 D1 and D2 get up on the blue line and slide to D1
F2
X1
adjust to the pass.
Drill Name & Description
D Carries

 F1 pursues X and angles him up the boards. D1 F3

X
 F2 goes down and gets his gap on X, and gets F1
ready to engage him at or before the blue line,
while F1 prevents the inside move and pass to
middle. F2
 F3 fills middle. D2
 D2 has his gap on the strong side.
 D1 has middle and cross ice pass.

Drill Name & Description

Rim
D1 F3
 F1 forces hard and comes back through the
middle after the rim is made.
 D1 can pinch.
F1
 F3 covers for D1.
 F2 comes hard across above the puck.
D2 F2
 D2 supports and protects middle and wide lane. X

Neutral / Offensive Zone Forecheck Drills

Drill Name & Description

Angling Drill

 Coach at center ice with pucks spots a puck to

either line.
 Players react to spot.
 Player on puck side retrieves puck and attempts to
come up ice.
 Other player touches up at his blue line and closes
the gap to angle outside.

Key Teaching Points C

 Move up quickly to close gap and establish XXX
appropriate angle.
 Good stick placement.
Drill Name & Description
Offensive Zone Forecheck x 2
F
 Forechecking forwards (O’s) and D mill around the D
neutral zone and attack the X’s on the dump in by
the coach. F C
 Forecheckers go to position but are passive while
forecheckers go to position and cause turnover.
 1st turnover the puck is returned to the coach while
forecheckers come back and regroup at center. D
F
 2nd time the puck is turned over, forecheckers
attempt to score.
 Rotate to give forecheckers a rest.

Key Teaching Points

 3 man race to top of circles to be the first
forechecker.
 Check from dots out.
 Good stick placement to protect middle of the ice.
 All five players up to support forecheck and
eliminate gaps.

Key Points

 Defend from the dots out.

 Create a three man race to be the first fore checker.
 First forward cut the ice in half to force the puck up ice.
 Eliminate gaps in the fore check.
 Good stick placement.
 Move quickly on the rotation.
 Recover to the middle.
INTRODUCTION: TRANSITION

The transition from defense to offense in the neutral zone can help to establish a speed game for
your team. Proper support will allow for a very quick transition forcing the opposition to go into
transition of their own, from offense to defense. The challenge is which team can force the other
to make those decisions under pressure.

Effective transition requires the defenseman to look for a penetrating pass as his first option
always. It should be stated that this pass, while very effective, cannot be forced since it is likely to
lead to a turn over. However, if the first pass penetrates the defense, it means you have beaten
one, two, or three players quickly and the speed at which they have to react is increased
significantly. It also allows your team to establish the pace of the attack and not allowing the
opposition a chance to fore check and contain to the degree they feel comfortable. This is a very
intimidating weapon.

An important key to transition is giving your players the opportunity to build speed through the
neutral zone so they can attack the offensive blue line with speed and enter the zone on the
attack.

The principles of puck control and support lead to effective team transition which allows your
team to put pressure on the opposition.
Neutral Zone Transition

Drill Name & Description

“C” Support
F2

 Has different options available after pass from D1.

 F2 Posting up on wall.
 F1 Supporting the middle of the ice.
D2
 F3 uses width of the ice and stretches to far
blueline.
 D1 comes underneath to support partner. F1 D1

F3

Drill Name & Description

“C” Away F2

 Same options as above with F1 and F3

exchanging positions.
D2

F1 D1

F3

Drill Name & Description

Reverse F2

 D1 carries the puck to middle. D2

 D2 comes underneath and receives a drop pass
continuing up ice looking for F2 and F3.
 F1 supports D1 and continues. F1
 F2 posts then becomes a stretch man. D1
 F3 pivots to boards and up his wing as an out for
D1. F3
Transition Drills

Drill Name & Description

Neutral Zone Up 1 vs 0 XX X XXX

 D1 and D2 on blue line in middle.

 D receives pass from skating toward them.
 X then skates to support for return pass, then
skates down for shoot. D1 D2
 D gets back to middle and looks for pass from
other side.

Key Teaching Points

 Players sprint to puck in straight line. XXX XXX
 Stop and quickly go back.

Drill Name & Description

Neutral Zone Up 2 vs 0 XX X X1 XX

 Same as above except 2 X’s skate toward D.

 X1 moves puck to D1 and gets return pass.
 X2 provides middle support to D1 and low support,
with speed, to X1. D1 G
D2
 X1 can chip puck to X2 or give a direct pass.
 X’s go down 2 vs 0 while 2 X’s leave from the
other blue lines.

Key Teaching Points XXX X2 XX

 D move your feet.
 X2 get over to provide middle support below X1.
Drill Name & Description
C D D2 F2FF
Penetrating Pass

 On coaches whistle F1 passes to D1 who slides

along blue line and shoots on goal.
 F1 goes to net for a screen.
G G

F F F1 D1 D C

Drill Name & Description

D Exchange Options XXX

 Drill begins out of opposite corners. D2

D
 X carries puck to 1st blue line and moves it to D1
who back peddles and carries puck across as if to
draw an opposing player. G
D
 D2 supports below and moves toward middle
receiving pass from D1.
D1
 D2 steps up and passes to X who has skated
across ice, X then goes down for a shot.
 D2 support from below puck. XXX

Key Teaching Points

 Protect puck and draw coverage.
 D2 communicate, receive pass, step up.
Drill Name & Description
Regroup Relay C X
X
X X
 On whistle Coach spots a puck for 5 X’s to
regroup. X
 As soon as they advance puck for attack Coach
blows whistle for O’s to regroup.
X X
Key Teaching Points X
 All X’s must get up on the rush to clear way for O’s
to regroup.
X X
 Look for penetrating pass as 1st option.

Key Points

 Defense must get back to pucks quickly and forwards to outlet position.
 Defense, check their shoulder when retrieving pucks to read pressure and outlets.
 Defense partner always provide support from the back side (stagger).
 Look for a penetrating pass as the first option.
 Use the full width of the ice.
 Stretch the defense.
 Support the puck on three sides.
 Quick puck movement is the first step in a speed game.
INTRODUCTION: TRACKING

Tracking is simply another word for back checking. An effective track can take a lot of pressure
off the defense and put a lot of pressure on the attacking forwards. It requires us to apply the
principles of pressure, support and transition to accomplish an effective track.

This tactic can be very intimidating to play against since it sends a message to the opposition
that we are all committed to working in order to retrieve the puck. It builds confidence with the
defense because they know they are getting support from three forwards. It applies pressure on
the opposition from the front and back sides, forcing them to make a play with less time and
space than they are comfortable with.

This tactic is a very effective way to protect the middle of the ice with the support from the
tracking forwards coming through the middle of the ice.

The tracking forwards will find that the better they execute the track, the more effective their
transition from defense to offense will be. This is because they are more readily available for a
quick pass in transition and, since they have worked hard skating back, they have created
separation between themselves and the opposing defense. This will make them more difficult to
defen
Tracking

Drill Name & Description

Introduction
D1
 When forwards are on the offensive side of the
puck, they track puck carrier from the back side. F2
 They will stay inside the dots when coming back to
help take away middle.
 They pressure through until the red line when they D2 F1
communicate responsibilities. Back side
awareness is critical.
F3

Tracking Drills

Drill Name & Description

Transition Track XXX X XXXX
2 1
 X1 and X3 leave at same time, drive wide and
shoot.
 They recover with 5 hard strides to track thru
middle and put backside pressure on X2 and X4 G G
respectively.

Key Teaching Points

 Recover on transition with 5 hard driving strides. 3 4
 Track back between dots. XX XX XXXX
 Stick on ice.

Key Points
 Four or five driving strides in transition from offense to defense.
 Track back between the dots.
 Stick on the ice to take away passing lanes.
 Out number at the defensive blue line.
 Feed the offensive forward into the defender.
 Forward slide in behind for support.
INTRODUCTION: BREAKOUTS

In most breakout situations players are required to read and react to situations quickly. Ideally,
the breakout would provide a quick transition to the attack, maintaining puck control and
penetrating the opposition’s defense putting pressure on them. For a breakout to be effective,
the players must have multiple options available to them. To ensure this happens players must
use the width and depth of the ice to their advantage so as to spread the defense and provide
support on three sides of the puck.

Communication is needed to allow for a quick reaction time for the player playing the puck.
While he will read the fore check as he retreats for the puck, a teammate who communicates
with him will not only save him valuable seconds, but will also increase the chances of a
productive play being made. This will lead to a quicker more productive breakout and therefore
a more intimidating attack. Key words for fast breakouts have proven to be useful and therefore
we suggest the terms up, over, wheel, reverse and wrap as the terms introduced to the players.

The international game often requires us to use a controlled breakout option. This option, while
not a favorite in the Canadian game, is useful to break trap type situations. Although the
controlled breakout option calls for pre-determined skating patterns, the same principles of
support, puck control and pressure apply.

A team that effectively moves the puck out of its own end and re-establishes an attack,
frustrates the opposition by breaking their fore check, and intimidates the opposition with its
speed of attack.
Breakouts

Drill Name & Description F2

Wheel

 D1 retrieves puck and wheels the net.

 D2 screens and holds the net.
 F2 anchors on the wall. D2 F1
 F1 supports through middle and is an option.
 F3 is an option to support or to stretch.
F3
D1

Drill Name & Description F2

Up
D1
 D1 retrieves puck and turns it up near side.
 D2 screens and protects net front.
 F1 supports low and is an option. D2 F1
 F2 opens up and is an option on the wall.
 F3 supports coming across or by stretching.
F3

Drill Name & Description F2

Over
D1 F1
 D1 retrieves puck and passes to D2.
 D2 releases from net front and is an option for D1.
 F3 opens up and anchors on wall.
 F1 supports D and is an option in the middle.
D2
 F2 is an option to support across or stretch.
F3
Drill Name & Description
Reverse F2

 D1 retrieves puck & begins to wheel net.

 D2 holds net front and calls REVERSE, then
D2 F1
leaves to get the puck.
 D1 reverses puck to D2 using boards, then returns
to front of net.
 F3 anchors and F1 and F2 can support or D1
exchange lanes. F3

Drill Name & Description

Wrap F2

 D1 retrieves puck and reads pressure.

 D2 holds net front and protects middle.
D2 F1
 F2 reads wrap and cuts off support to go to blue
line for puck.
 F1 supports below the puck.
 F3 comes hard across and stretches.
D1 F3

Breakout Drills

Drill Name & Description

Split Groups – Forward and Defense
D DD
 “UP” option x 2 D1 skates up and cuts blue line,
back peddles to top of circles, pivots and retrieves
the puck.
 He turns puck up and passes to first Defense in
line who spots it in the corner again. G
 D1 repeats the “UP” and skates to blue line,
receives a pass, drags it across blue line for a
shot.

Key Teaching Points D D1

 Back quickly to pucks.
 Check your shoulder for pressure and outlet.
 Approach puck on an angle.
Drill Name & Description
“Wheel” Option x 2 D DD

 D begins same as above.

 Retrieves puck and wheels net to outlet to D on
hash who spots puck to the corner.
 D touches up at blueline and completes same G
sequence on the other side finishing with same
shot as above.

Key Teaching Points

 Back to puck quickly. DD1
 Check shoulder for pressure and outlet.
 Move puck quickly.

Drill Name & Description

DD
“Over “ Option x 2
 Same sequence as above except 2 D touch up,
over puck, touch up, over the other way, skate up
to blue aligned with dots, receive pass and shoot
puck or pass to partner for shot.

Key Teaching Points

 Back quickly, check shoulder.
 Communicate outlet.
 “OVER” the puck so it is off the boards and less
DD
difficult to play.

Drill Name & Description DD

“Reverse” Option x 2
 Same sequence as above.

Key Teaching Points

 Back quickly.
 Protect the front of the net, communicate outlet,
puck is reversed off the boards and behind
pressure.
 Skate into puck.
DD
Drill Name & Description
Breakout Progression FFF

 “UP” D, quick feet to top of circle down through dot

 Retrieve puck an up to forward who drops to hash
mark. DD
 Forward goes down for shot and D join. G G
 Can exchange puck while going down ice. DD
 Go on whistle.

Key Teaching Points

 Quick feet, check shoulder, communicate, move FFF
puck quickly.
 D joins for support and to close gap.

Drill Name & Description

FFF DD
“Wheel” Breakout Progression

 Same as above.

Key Teaching Points

G G
 Move puck at second post.

DD FFF

Drill Name & Description

“Over” Option D3 D1 FFF

 Same drill as above except now 2 D involved for the

over.
 D2 joins rush, then goes to hash mark on the wall. D
 D1 fills in for D2. G G
D2
 Drill goes on Coach’s command.

Key Teaching Points

 Quick feet, check shoulder, D2 feet pointed up ice to
identify outlet, communicate, move puck, move feet. F FF DD
Drill Name & Description
Reverse Option FFF DD

 D1 spots puck for himself.

 D1 reverses to D2 who moves puck to forward.
 D2 joins play and fills in on middle hash mark. D1
G G
 D1 reverses puck then joins line on hash marks on
the wall. D

Key Teaching Points

 Quick feet, protect net front, communicate.
D D2 F FF

Drill Name & Description FF

Breakout Progression 2 Forwards

 Each drill above can include a second forward FF

providing middle support.
 Puck can be moved to wall then to middle using
direct or indirect pass.

Key Teaching Points

 Middle support must time his skate, come from
underneath for support, communicate to other DD
forward for direct or indirect pass.

Drill Name & Description

Continuous Breakout vs Pressure
C X
 X’s Breakout and X forwards enter zone for
scoring chance. X
 X D’s sprint to bench.
X3
 As X forwards enter offensive zone 5 0’s come
onto the ice. G X2 X
 Coach shoots puck into zone and 0’s go back to X
breakout.
 One, two or all three X’s will pressure breakout. X
X
 Coach times the shoot in to get desired pressure. X1
X
Key Teaching Points
 Back quickly, provide screens, check shoulder,
provide outlets, communicate, good changes.
Key Points

Controlled Breakout
 Players must provide support from three sides.
 D2 must be lateral or below his partner.
 Stick must be available for the pass.

Up, Over, Wheel, Reverse, Wrap

 Defense must get back to the puck quickly, checking his shoulder for pressure and outlets.
 Defense partner must screen for his partner or provide an outlet, but he must always communicate
best available option before his partner gets to the puck.
 Forwards must sprint back to position to provide an outlet.
 Forwards must read the situation, anticipate the first pass, and react to provide support for second
pass option.
 The quicker the first pass is made, the faster the team breaking out brings its attack to high speed.
The two most important factors in this case are communication and puck movement.
INTRODUCTION: ENTRIES

Entries in the international game are critical and special emphasis must be paid to this area.
Teams in international competition rely on transition and a quick strike mentality to a large
degree, especially since the two line pass is not in play. Turning a puck over at the offensive blue
line is a critical mistake in the Canadian game because we have an attack mentality and as such,
the other four players on the ice are thinking attack while the puck is being pushed up the ice the
other way. We believe giving players the tools to effectively enter the offensive zone using the
principles of support, puck control and pressure allows them to play with a strong Canadian
attack mentality.

Including a net drive mentality accomplishes a number of things. It provides an attack mentality
that is a big part of the Canadian game. It stretches the zone and forces the defense to make a
decision on whether to take the player to the net or protect the slot. It forces the defending team to
read and react at a higher speed. It also is intimidating to a goaltender who is facing a shot from
the outside while he sees a player attacking the net at high speed. The goaltender’s attention may
be divided, but certainly he has to be concerned about the second shot possibility or the pass that
may be made. This will force him to play a little deeper in his net. Typically, goaltenders who play
the international game do not face a lot of traffic, and therefore are forced to work harder than
normal under more crowded conditions. This can be very frustrating for a goaltender that is not
used to these conditions.

Maybe the most important aspect about a good mid lane drive is that it helps to establish an attack
mentality that can lend to the development of a team’s personality.
Entries

Drill Name & Description

Mid Lane Drive F1

 F1 attacks the offensive blue line and takes puck D1

to the net.
 F3 drives the mid lane aggressively.
 F2 reads play and can drive the net or go to slot F3
for high pass.
 D1 and D2 move up on the play and are available D2
to fill in the high slot if open.
 Fill the open ice. F2

Drill Name & Description

Wide Delay F1

 F3 drives wide with puck and reads he is not able D1

to get to the net. He cuts back and protects puck
making all options available.
 F2 drives net through the mid lane aggressively. F2
 F1 drives net drawing defenders deep.
 D1 and D2 activate and are available as high D2
options.
 F3 becomes the high man after the pass.
F3

Drill Name & Description F1

Cross
D1
 F2 looks for the open ice – either in front (soft gap)
of or behind the opposing D.
 F3 reads soft gap and crosses behind F2. F3
 F2 either gives puck to F3 or keeps it. Both
players continue to attack net. D2
 F1 drives the net hard drawing defenders deep.
 D1 and D2 activate and are available in high slot.
F2
Drill Name & Description F1
Chips x

 F1 has the puck and is challenged by opposing D. D1

 F3 reads and provides close support to pick up F3
chip (F3’s speed should not be sacrificed).
 F2 drives the net trying to get inside position.
 D activate and are available to find open ice.
D2

F2

Entries Drills

Drill Name & Description F FF

Split Groups – Forwards and Defense

 Net Drive.

Key Teaching Points G

 Hard driving strides to net from blue line.
 Stop at net.

FFF

Drill Name & Description

FFF
Chip and Chase C

 Freeze the coach then chip out side and chase

inside.
G

C
FFF
Drill Name & Description
F FF
Wide Delay
C
 Attack Coach with speed to back him off.
 Tight turn protecting puck and drive the seam.
G

C
FFF

Drill Name & Description FFF

Cross
C

 Attack with speed and identify open ice in front of

coach.
 Tight cross to maintain speed. G
 Protect puck.
 Drive seam.

C
FFF

Drill Name & Description

Net Drive

 X1 and X2 leave on whistle. X1 X X XX X

 X1 takes puck around the cone and up the boards
while X2 cuts hash marks and sprints over to
support. G G
 X2 receives pass and drives wide while X1 goes to
the middle driving mid lane directly to far post.
X2 XX XXX
Key Teaching Points
 Keep feet driving through hash marks.
 Drive to par post.
 X2 go to the net after the pass.
Drill Name & Description
2 Man Support and Chip
XXXX1 X 2 XXX
C
 X1 and X2 leave on whistle.
 X1 takes puck and feeds X2 going up the boards
then skates to support.
 X2 draws coach to him and chips puck to open
space for X1 to skate into it. G G
 X2 rejoins X1 on the rush.
 Both ends same time.

Key Teaching Points C

 X1 works to support. XXXX2 X1XXX
 X2 waits for coach to commit then moves puck to
open space.

Drill Name & Description

2 Man Wide Delay XX1 XX
C
 Same drill as above except coach pressures
deeper.
 X1 saves his ice in neutral zone to ensure he is an
option. G
 X2 looks for X1, then fills in as a high man.

Key Teaching Points

 X2 drives deep and off the boards to create space.
C
 Protect puck on the delay. XX
2
XX
 X1 save ice for timing purposes.
 X2 fill in as high man.

Drill Name & Description XX1 XX

2 Man Cross C

 Same as above, except X1 and X2 execute an

offensive cross at the blue line.
 Can be a drop pass for X1 with drive or X2 can keep G
and drive or keep and feed to X1.

Key Teaching Points

C
 Play without puck support from behind on cross.
2
 There must be a net drive after the cross. XX XX
Drill Name & Description
3 Man Drive
XX 3
X1 X
 X1 comes across zone with puck and drops for X2
coming off other side.
 X3 delays and joins the rush. D
 3 players exchange puck through neutral zone and
prepare to enter zone vs two passive D.
 Coach can dictate desired zone entry.
D
Key Teaching Points
 Puck support.
 Net drive. XX X2 X
 Speed on the rush.
 Form attack triangle.

Drill Name & Description

Breakout 5 vs 2 X

 X’s perform breakout and attack against 2 D X D

defending with full pressure.
 X’s need to read and react to choose proper entry.
 On whistle X’s regroup and D get gap to defend X
2nd rush.
X
Key Teaching Points D
 Attack with speed thru neutral zone.
 Proper puck support necessary. X
 Communicate.

Key Points

 The puck must be advanced at the offensive blue line.

 Speed must be maintained.
 There must be an aggressive mid lane drive.
 Five players must be up on the play.
 There should always be a high slot presence.
INTRODUCTION: OFFENSIVE ZONE PLAY

Effective offensive zone play is very much a trade mark of Canadian hockey. By enjoying a
territorial advantage during the course of a game the opposition is forced to react to what you
are doing. Defending is much more taxing both physically and mentally than attacking and
therefore there is an attrition effect as a game goes along.

There are various forms of effective offensive zone play, but it should be understood that while
territorial advantage is important, developing scoring chances is the main aim. It should also be
understood that good decisions and positioning are also important and so patience is a quality
not to be under-estimated.

Effective offensive zone play requires that the principles of pressure, puck control and support
employed by all five players on the ice. It is essential that players communicate to each other
and work to move puck away from defensive pressure so as to take advantage of seams that
may open up as a result of broken defensive coverage.

Forwards should funnel to the net on all shots with a second shot mentality.

Offensive zone play requires hard work and players willing to jump to opens spaces and moving
quickly to areas after they move the puck. There must be a commitment to get pucks through to
the net in order to take advantage of this sprint to the net
Offensive Zone Play

Drill Name & Description

High Cycle D1 F1

 F1 cycles up and looks to drive high seam to the

net. If not, all players available for pass. F3 F2
 F2 fills in the open ice low and is available if F1
has no direct pass option. D2
 F3 goes to the net.
 D1 is a safety.
 D2 can activate down back side.

Drill Name & Description

Low Cycle D1 F1

 F1 drives low and looks to go to the net. If there is

F2
no drive lane, the cycle begins.
 F2 holds net front, but slides up between hash F3
marks. D2
 F3 slides to the wall to fill in the open ice left by
F1.
 D1 is the safety.
 D2 can activate and read open space.

Drill Name & Description D1 F1

D Cycle

 This comes from the same formation as the high F3

cycle. F2
 F1 comes up the wall to the blue line. D2
 D1 slides down the wall on the board side.
 There is a puck exchange between F1 and D1.
 D1 looks to go to net, or take the option to pass to
F2 or F3.
[Type here]

Offensive Zone Play Drills

Drill Name & Description

Change Point of Attack
 X1 jumps to loose puck while X2 holds net front X1 XX
and supports to open ice.
 X2 receives pass and drives net.
G
Key Teaching Points
 X2 holds net front to draw coverage.
 Communicate and release quickly to loose puck. X2 XX
 Drive net.

Drill Name & Description

D Cycle X1 X2 X3
 X1 goes in for shot and releases to corner.
 He carries puck up wall past top of circles and X2
drives down wall.
 X1 reverses puck down wall to X2 who drives the
G
net for a shot.
 X2 then releases to corner to take puck up wall for
X3.

Key Teaching Points

 X1 drives up wall to draw coverage. XXX
 X1 protect puck and create lane for X2.
 X2 communicate and drive seam.

Drill Name & Description

Low Cycle
 X1 begins with puck, shoots, returns for 2nd puck
and carries down wall. X1 X2 X3
 X2 provides support and communicates.
 X1 protects puck and reverses it to X2 who drives
G
net for a shot.
 X2 retrieves 2nd puck and X3 supports.

Key Teaching Points XXX

 Drive low down wall protecting puck.
 Support player fills open space and
communicates.
 Support player jumps to loose puck and drives net.
Key Points

 Forwards win the race to the puck

 Protect the puck.
 Take puck away from pressure forcing the defensive team to adjust.
 Supporting player fill the open ice and communicate.
 Move the puck to the open ice.
 Move to support the puck carrier.
 Attack seams as they make themselves available.
 Do not throw the puck out blindly.
INTRODUCTION: SPECIAL TEAMS
Power Play Breakouts
Regardless of Breakout, no – stop option should be considered to force PK forecheck to make a
decision
Drill Name & Description
Power Play – Breakout - Stretch vs Support

 Stretch when puck carrier is coming your way (ex. F2

F3) D2
 Support when puck carrier is moving away from
you (ex. F2) D1 G G

F1

F3

Drill Name & Description

Power Play – Breakout - Stretch vs Support

 Timing is crucial. Defensemen need to pass early F2

to give forwards the possibility : D2
o To keep speed for entry
o To establish support D1 G G
o To be 1st on pucks on dumps
F1

F3
Drill Name & Description
4
Power Play – Zone Entry
3
 Goal is to keep control on entry
 4 main target areas to reach while carrying the
puck or to place the puck into (to regain puck) G G

2
1

Drill Name & Description

Power Play – Zone Entry 4
3
 Need 2 players on strong side supporting each
other and covering #1 and #2 target areas
 Need 2 players on far side to cover the further
target areas (#3 and #4) G G

2
1

Drill Name & Description

Power Play – Zone Entry

 Can use the target areas to:

o Start set-up
o Release pressure
o Create battles G G
Drill Name & Description
Power Play – Zone Entry
F3
 On battles you can keep a player wide as an outlet
rather than have 3 on the same side. It allows
players in the battle to know where to release the
pressure. G D2 G
 The far man still acts as a forechecker in case the
opponent carries puck behind the net. F2

F1
D1

Many set-ups exist and all work well against a particular penalty kill formation. All of them rely on players
ability to (a) release pressure, (b) attack seams.

Drill Name & Description

Power Play

 Attacking seams quickly with:

o A shot (quick release)
o A pass (move puck quickly)
o A carry (move feet) G G
 Always try to position your body to attack a seam
(with or without puck)

Drill Name & Description

Spread Overload
Power Play – Spread (3-2) Set Up
F1 D1 F1
 Very versatile set-up because it can easily turn
into:
o Overload G F2 D1 G
o Umbrella F2
o 1-3-1
F3 D2

D2 F3
Drill Name & Description
Power Play Umbrella D1 1-3-1
F1
F1

G F2 D2 D1 G
F2

F3
D2 F3

Drill Name & Description

Power Play – Example of 1-3-1
F1
D/F
 Need very skilled and quick players D1
 Can be dangerous for turnovers
 Need middle man to stay high and back to his
position when battles occur G F2 D1 D/F F1 G
 Can provide a “4 man jam” on shots
D2

F3 F2

Drill Name & Description

Power Play – Example of 1-3-1
F1
D/F
 Basic plays (with FWD or DEF filling middle)
 Low Support
o Walk in
o Slot pass G F3 F2 D1 D1 D/F F1 G
o Back door
 High Support

D2 F2
Power Play Drills

Drill Name & Description

Power Play – Breakout and Entry

 Practice:
o Early pass
o Stretch vs support G X X X X G
o Entering 2 vs 1
o Using target areas

Drill Name & Description

Power Play

 Practice releasing pressure (5 on 3 for 30

seconds)
o Rims (short and long)
o Look G G
o Protect puck
 Only play along the boards, 3 defenders just put
heavy pressure

Drill Name & Description

Power Play

 3 vs 2 (on side)
 4 vs 2 down low
G G
 2 defenders block options and 4 power play
players choose options
Drill Name & Description
Power Play

 4 vs 2 up top to practice positioning body in

seams with or without the puck
 Shoot on whistle
G G

Drill Name & Description

Power Play Spread 1-3-1
F1 D2
 Practice only passing for 1 minute with 2 pucks at
D1
the same time (1 second possession)
 It will increase vision, speed of execution, and
communication G F2 D1 F2 F1 G

D2
F3 F3
Penalty Killing Forechecks

Drill Name & Description

Penalty Killing – 1-3 Forecheck
F2
 F1 steers play to one side, then sprints back to
support once puck is moved
G
F1 G
D2

D1

Drill Name & Description 1

1
Penalty Killing – DZ vs Overload
F1 D1 3
 Key is to take away time and space. Good
2
players will make good plays if they have the time
G F2 D2 G
to make them. Force them to make a great play 2
to beat you.

Drill Name & Description 1

Penalty Killing - DZ vs Overload
1
F1 D1 3
 F1 must not allow defensemen to walk blueline
2
with puck. If D walks, we lose pressure. F1 must
G F2 D2 G
attack D hard and force play back down to half 2
wall.
Drill Name & Description
Penalty Killing - DZ vs Overload 1

1
 If opposing F on half wall is above top of circle, F1 D1 3
must try to press him down the boards, not F1
2
allowing a pass back to the D at point. If half wall
G D2 G
forward receives pass below top of circle, D1 2 F2
should be in good position to jump and pressure.
D2 is cheating to pressure low play. F2 covers
net front.

Drill Name & Description

Penalty Killing - DZ vs Overload 1

1
 Key to this PK is when opponent gets set up with D1 3
full control on half wall. D1 must contain, maintain F1
2
positioning in shooting lane and inside the dots.
G D2 G
2 F2

Drill Name & Description 1

Penalty Killing - DZ vs Overload
1
D1 3
 The low play is now imperative. If low opposing F F1
2
is outside dots when low play is made, D1 plays
G D2 G
the 2 on 1 and continues to contain as low F is not 2 F2
a threat.
Drill Name & Description 1
Penalty Killing - DZ vs Overload
1 D1 3
 If low F is in lane or inside dots when low play is F1
made, full court press is on. D2, who is initially 2
positioned on the near post a stick length from G D2 G
2 F2
opposing F in slot, immediately attacks low F all
out with stick on puck. This denies a pass to slot
F or backside D who is covered by F2 collapsing
to net front.

Drill Name & Description 1

Penalty Killing - DZ vs Overload
1 D1 3
 When pass is made low, D1 must immediately get F1
back towards net front and get his stick in the 2
passing lane from low F to slot forward to deny a D2
G F2 G
quick pass to the slot. 2

Drill Name & Description

1
Penalty Killing - DZ vs Overload
1 D1
D2
 Once pass to slot has been denied, D1 now F1
cheats to corner in support of D2, who should be 2
pressing low forward to the boards. D1 is ready G F2 G
to attack puck if it is cycled. F1 is in position to 2
deny pass to point and deny a walk off the
boards. F2 is covering net front and aware of
weakside D at all times.
 When executed correctly, this kill is very effective
at creating a battle and a turnover.