
On the coach's whistle, players cross to the opposite baseline using a forehand carry. The coach tries to tackle or tap the balls away. Dispossessed players immediately join the center as extra defenders.
Ball contact: Keep the ball glued to the forehand side of the stick while running; do not let it bounce away. Head up: Scan the space ahead to spot the positioning of the defenders and exploit open gaps.
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.