
All players in the arc must constantly jog on the spot behind their different coloured cone. The coach calls out a player's colour and passes a ball into the space in front of them. The player sprints forward, intercepts the moving ball (dynamic forehand reception), turns towards the goal, and finishes with a forehand push. The player retrieves their own ball, returns it to the coach's basket, and rejoins.
Active feet: Never stop moving your feet while receiving the ball; intercept it while running forward. Low stick: Keep the stick low to the ground to absorb the speed of the incoming ball. The push: Guide the ball into the goal with a smooth, controlled pushing motion rather than hitting it.
This practice has no coaching points
This practice has no progressions
in more ways than one
A few weeks into the league season, poor first touches are costing teams the ball. Coach body shape, scanning and receiving on the move to keep possession.
Pre-season fitness fades fast once the league starts. Build conditioning into ball work and use rolling subs well to keep your squad sharp all season.
The first weeks of the season decide whether a junior or new player sticks with adult hockey. Here is how to keep them safe, give them a clear job and build their confidence from the very first bully.