U12 Zone Drill Book

Figure-8 Circles

CrossoversEdges6 minWhole team, 1 line

Setup. One line between the hash marks at the top of the circles. Use the two faceoff circles in our zone.

How it runs

Skate in, go around the top circle, cross through the middle and go around the bottom circle.
Crossovers the whole way round each circle.
Next player goes when the one before reaches the second circle. Do 3 laps, then switch direction.

Coaching points

Lean into the circle, outside shoulder up.
Push with the inside (under) foot, full extension.
Stick on the ice, two hands.
Do not look at your feet.

Easier

C-cuts only: glide on the inside foot and push with the outside foot. Two hands on the stick for balance. One circle at a time.

Harder

Carry a puck. Backward crossovers on the second circle with a pivot at the middle. Race the clock for one full figure-8.

Stop-Start Ladder

StopsExplosive starts6 min4 lanes, waves of 4

Setup. Four lanes across the zone, avoiding the crease. Players start on the goal line. Stop lines are the faceoff dots, the top of the circles (cones) and the blue line.

How it runs

On the whistle, sprint to the faceoff-dot line and hockey stop.
Sprint to the cones, stop. Sprint to the blue line, stop.
Glide back along the boards. Next wave goes. Stop facing the other wall on every second rep.

Coaching points

Knees bent, weight slightly back when stopping.
Shave the ice with both blades, shoulders stay level.
First three strides short and quick, run on the blades.
Stop facing the same wall, then switch, so both sides get trained.

Easier

Snowplow stops are fine. Only go to the first stop line, rest, then the next. Coach skates beside the weakest skaters.

Harder

One-foot stops (inside then outside edge). Start backward, pivot, then sprint. Do it carrying a puck.

Pivot Gates

Forward-backward pivotsDefence footwork8 minWhole team, 2 lines

Setup. Two lanes of three cones, one per half. Coach in the middle with pucks. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Skate forward to the first cone and pivot to backward.
Skate backward to the second cone and pivot to forward.
Take the coach's pass at the third cone and shoot. Lanes alternate.

Coaching points

Head and shoulders turn first, the hips follow.
Feet stay wide during the pivot so you don't wobble.
Backward: sit in the chair, C-cuts under the body.
Stick on the ice as a target for the pass.

Easier

Stop and turn instead of pivoting. Coach slides a puck to a standing player. Slow it down: quality over speed.

Harder

Open-hip (Mohawk) pivots both ways. Carry the puck through the whole lane, including backward. Shoot within two strides of the pass.

Edge Slalom

EdgesBalance6 min4 lanes, waves of 4

Setup. Four lanes across the zone, starting at the blue line. Players line up behind the four starting spots.

How it runs

Take three strides from the blue line, then glide on two feet.
Carve big S-turns using only your edges, no pushing, all the way to the circles.
Stop, glide back along the boards. Next wave goes.

Coaching points

Knees bent, ankles bent, chest up.
Roll the knees left and right to change edges.
Hands and stick stay quiet in front.
Make the S as deep as you can without pushing.

Easier

Small, gentle curves. Hands on the stick held across the knees for balance. Coach can glide beside them.

Harder

Do it on one foot: inside edge one way, outside edge the other. Then do the same lanes skating backward.

Crossover Box

CrossoversSpeed through turns7 minWhole team, 1 line

Setup. Four cones in a big box, about 25 ft by 40 ft. One line at the blue line in the middle.

How it runs

Skate around the outside of the box.
Do two or three crossovers around every cone, then stride hard on the straight part.
Next player goes when the one before reaches cone 2. Two laps, then switch direction.

Coaching points

Lean in at the cone, outside shoulder up.
Push with the inside foot under your body.
Accelerate out of each turn, not into it.
Stick on the ice, head up.

Easier

Make the box smaller. C-cuts around the cones instead of crossovers. Go one direction until it feels easy.

Harder

Backward crossovers on the long sides. Coach blows the whistle to switch direction mid-lap. Carry a puck.

Crossover Starts

Explosive startsCrossovers6 minWhole team, 1 line

Setup. One cone near each side boards. The first player stands in the middle facing the coach at the net. Line waits behind.

How it runs

The coach points left or right.
Turn your shoulders, do one crossover step and sprint to that cone.
Hockey stop at the cone, then go to the back of the line.

Coaching points

Turn head and shoulders first.
Outside leg crosses over, inside leg pushes hard.
First steps short and quick, then lengthen.
Stay low, don't stand up on the first step.

Easier

Coach says the side out loud before the whistle. A simple turn and run is fine at first. Shorter distance.

Harder

Coach fakes one way then points the other. Add a second crossover start at the cone back to the middle. Race a partner.

Partner Pull Stride

Stride powerLeg strength7 minPairs, 4 lanes

Setup. Pairs in four lanes. A holds a stick behind them, B holds the other end of the stick from behind.

How it runs

A strides to the blue line pulling B, who glides and digs in a snowplow for drag.
Stop at the blue line, glide back along the boards.
Swap jobs every rep. Do 3 reps each.

Coaching points

Full push to the side, toe snaps at the end.
Bring the foot back under you after every push.
Low knees, nose over toes.
B: light drag only, don't pull them over.

Easier

B glides on two feet with no snowplow. Pair similar sizes. Shorter lane to the top of the circles.

Harder

B adds a strong snowplow. When A reaches the cones, B lets go and A sprints the last part with no drag.

Knee-Drop Race

StartsGetting up fastCompete6 minPairs, 2 races at a time

Setup. Two races at a time. Pairs start side by side at the circles. A cone halfway and a cone at the blue line between each pair.

How it runs

Start on both knees. On the whistle, get up and sprint.
At the middle cone, drop to both knees and get up again.
Race to the blue line and stop. Winner stays, loser picks a new partner.

Coaching points

Get up one foot at a time, push off the front foot.
Short, choppy steps after getting up.
Stay low the whole race.
Stop hard at the finish, don't coast.

Easier

Start standing. One knee down at the cone instead of two. Pair players of the same level.

Harder

Start lying on your stomach. Two knee drops on the way. Finish with a stop and sprint back to the start.

Red Light Green Light

StopsStartsListening6 minWhole team

Setup. Players spread out side by side near the goal line, away from the net. Coach stands at the blue line facing them.

How it runs

Coach calls GREEN: everyone skates toward the coach.
Coach calls RED: everyone stops right away. Anyone still moving goes back to the start.
First player to touch the blue line wins and becomes the next caller.

Coaching points

Stop with both blades shaving the ice.
Knees bent before you stop.
Explode on GREEN, first three steps quick.
Practise stopping on both sides.

Easier

Snowplow stops are fine. Coach gives a slow count before RED. Good for warm-ups.

Harder

Add YELLOW for glide on one foot and BLUE for skate backward. Must stop facing a wall the coach points at.

Backward C-Cut Lanes

Backward skatingEdges6 min4 lanes, waves of 4

Setup. Four lanes. Players start near the goal line facing the net, backs to the blue line. A cone halfway up the lanes.

How it runs

Skate backward with C-cuts to the middle cone.
From the cone, use a full backward stride to the blue line.
Stop, glide back along the boards. Next wave goes.

Coaching points

Sit in the chair, back straight, chest up.
Push out from the heel in a C, then pull the foot back.
Keep the feet under the shoulders.
Look over the shoulder to check where you are going.

Easier

Wiggle backward with both feet on the ice (hourglass). Stick across the knees. Coach skates beside.

Harder

One-foot C-cuts, left then right. Backward stop at the cone, then continue. Carry a puck backward.

Backward Cone Weave

Backward skatingEdges7 minWhole team, 2 lines

Setup. Two lanes of four cones about 8 ft apart. Lines at the blue line facing the blue line, backs to the net.

How it runs

Skate backward and weave through the cones.
After the last cone, do a backward stop.
Skate forward back to the other line. Next player goes when you pass the second cone.

Coaching points

Hips lead the turn, shoulders stay square.
Push with the outside foot to steer.
Knees bent, weight on the balls of the feet.
Peek over the shoulder, don't turn around.

Easier

Cones wide apart. Walk it backward slowly first. Skip every other cone.

Harder

Cones closer together. Pivot forward at the last cone and sprint to the net. Carry a puck the whole way.

Shadow Mirror

AgilityQuick feetReading play6 minPairs

Setup. Pairs facing each other, about one stick length apart, spread around the zone.

How it runs

The leader (L) moves left, right, forward or backward and stops.
The follower (F) mirrors every move and tries to stay face to face.
Swap jobs every 20 seconds. Change partners after two rounds.

Coaching points

Stay low, feet shoulder width.
Watch the leader's chest, not their feet.
Short quick steps, no big crossovers.
Stop and start as fast as you can.

Easier

Only side to side moves. The leader calls out each move. Slow speed.

Harder

Add pivots and stops. Bigger space. The leader tries to break away and the follower must touch their shoulder.

Cone Star

AgilityStopsTransitions7 min2 groups

Setup. Two stars of four cones around a middle spot, one star per half. Groups wait at the blue line.

How it runs

Start in the middle. Sprint to cone 1 and stop.
Skate backward to the middle, then sprint to cone 2. Go round all four cones.
Next player starts when you are back at the line.

Coaching points

Stop facing the same way each time, then switch next turn.
Pivot quickly, no wide turns.
Stay low between moves.
Explode out of every stop.

Easier

Skate forward back to the middle instead of backward. Stars smaller. Walk through it once first.

Harder

Coach calls the cone numbers in random order. Time it and try to beat your best.

Sharks and Minnows

AgilitySpeedFun8 minWhole team

Setup. Minnows line up along the top boards. Two sharks start in the middle. Cones mark the safe lines at each side.

How it runs

On the whistle, minnows skate across to the other safe line.
Sharks try to tag them. Tagged minnows become sharks.
Keep crossing until two minnows are left. They start as sharks next round.

Coaching points

Head up, look for open ice.
Change speed and direction to beat a shark.
Quick crossovers to cut away.
Sharks: tag gently, glove on the shoulder.

Easier

One shark only. Sharks must glide on two feet. Make the safe zones bigger.

Harder

Minnows carry a puck. Sharks can steal the puck to tag. Minnows must skate backward for the first half.

Flamingo Glides

BalanceEdges5 min4 lanes, waves of 4

Setup. Four lanes with two cones each marking a glide zone in the middle. Players start near the goal line.

How it runs

Stride hard to the first cone.
Glide on one foot to the second cone. Free foot held up beside the skating boot.
Stride to the blue line and stop. Switch feet on the next rep.

Coaching points

Knee of the gliding leg bent.
Shoulders level, head over the gliding knee.
Stick on the ice in front, two hands.
Hold still, no wobble, no hopping.

Easier

Glide on two feet first, then lift one foot for a count of two. Use the stick on the ice for balance.

Harder

Glide on one foot doing a deep knee bend and back up. Glide on an outside edge. Do it backward.

Stick Hurdles

BalanceAgilityLeg power6 min4 lanes, waves of 4

Setup. Four lanes with three sticks laid flat across each lane, about 10 ft apart. Players start near the goal line.

How it runs

Skate toward the sticks with speed.
Jump over each stick with both feet and land in balance.
Stride to the blue line, stop, and glide back along the boards.

Coaching points

Bend the knees to jump, bend them again to land.
Land on both feet at the same time.
Arms and stick in front for balance.
Keep skating right after landing.

Easier

Step over the sticks one foot at a time. Lay the sticks further apart. Glide slowly.

Harder

Jump on one foot. Jump sideways over the sticks. Go over the sticks skating backward.

Tight Turn Zigzag

Tight turnsEdges7 minWhole team, 2 lines

Setup. Three cones in a zigzag on each half of the zone. One line on each side at the blue line.

How it runs

Skate to the first cone and make a tight turn around it.
Zigzag to each cone, turning as close as you can.
Stop past the last cone. Next player goes when you reach cone two.

Coaching points

Inside foot leads, outside foot follows.
Lean in, knees bent, hips low.
Stick on the ice to the inside of the turn.
Push out of every turn with crossovers.

Easier

Wider turns. Glide around each cone on two feet. Walk the pattern once first.

Harder

Turns of a full circle at each cone. Carry a puck. Race a player from the other line.

Shuttle Relay

SpeedTight turnsCompete8 min2 teams of 4 to 6

Setup. Two teams in lines at the blue line. One cone for each team near the circles.

How it runs

On the whistle, the first skater sprints around the team cone and back.
Tag the glove of the next skater, who then goes.
First team to finish sits down on the ice. Best of three races.

Coaching points

Stay low and drive the knees.
Tight turn around the cone, don't swing wide.
Next skater waits ready, knees bent.
Cheer for your team.

Easier

Mix strong and new skaters on each team. Glide around the cone. Shorter distance.

Harder

Skate backward on the way back. Add a stop at the cone instead of a turn. Each skater does two laps.

Puckhandling

Cone Weave & Shoot

PuckhandlingShooting8 minWhole team, 2 lines

Setup. Two lines at the blue line, one per side, each with a pile of pucks. Four cones per lane about 7 ft apart. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Player 1 weaves the cones with the puck, cuts to the slot and shoots.
Player 2 goes when player 1 passes the last cone.
After the shot, join the back of the other line.

Coaching points

Puck in front of the body, not at the side.
Soft hands: cup the puck, roll the wrists.
Eyes up between cones.
Knees bent, like sitting on a chair.

Easier

Wide cones (2 sticks apart). Skate it without a puck first, then with a puck at walking speed. Stop in the slot and shoot from standing.

Harder

Tight cones (1 stick apart). Toe drag at every cone. Coach holds up fingers and the skater calls out the number. Finish with a backhand or a deke.

Stationary Puck Series

StickhandlingSoft hands6 minWhole team, spread out

Setup. Players spread out in rows, each with a puck, all facing the coach. Leave a stick length or more between players.

How it runs

Coach calls a move: side to side, front to back, then figure 8 around the skates.
Do each move for 10 seconds, fast hands, then rest 5 seconds.
Repeat the series with one hand only, then with eyes on the coach.

Coaching points

Top hand does the work, bottom hand stays loose.
Roll the wrists to cup the puck.
Puck in front, not beside the skates.
Knees bent, back flat, head up.

Easier

Slow and wide moves only. Coach calls the move and counts the touches out loud. Look down at first, then try short looks up.

Harder

Tight, quick touches with the puck in the heel of the blade. Coach flashes fingers and players shout the number. Add a toe drag or a skate kick each round.

Toe Drag Lanes

Toe dragsPuck control8 minWhole team, 2 lines

Setup. Two lanes, one per half. Three cones in a straight line in each lane, about 10 ft apart. Lines at the blue line with pucks.

How it runs

Skate straight down the lane. At each cone pull the puck across your body with the toe of the blade.
The body goes straight, the puck goes around the cone.
Skate back on the outside without the puck. Next player goes when you pass the second cone.

Coaching points

Cup the puck with the toe, turn the blade over it.
Reach out wide, then pull in close.
Keep the skates moving, don't glide.
Look up between cones.

Easier

Stand still beside a cone and do toe drags from forehand to backhand. Then walk it slowly. Use wide cones.

Harder

Toe drag through the legs of a coach's stick held flat. Do it at full speed. Finish with a toe drag shot on the goalie.

Tight Turn Slalom

Tight turnsEdges with puck8 minWhole team, 2 lines

Setup. Three cones in a row on each side of the zone, about 14 ft apart. A line at the blue line on each side with pucks.

How it runs

Carry the puck to the first cone and do a full tight turn around it.
Go to the next cone and turn again. Three cones, three turns.
Sides alternate. Next time turn the other way round the cones.

Coaching points

Lean in on the inside edge, outside shoulder up.
Puck out in front on the forehand, away from the skates.
Head turns first, look where you want to go.
Push out of the turn with quick crossovers.

Easier

Big, slow turns with no puck first, then with a puck. Stop and turn is fine. Use only one cone.

Harder

Turn as tight as possible around each cone. Switch the puck to the backhand in every turn. Race a partner on the other side.

Heads-Up Numbers

Heads upStickhandling6 minWhole team

Setup. Coach stands in the middle of the zone. All players carry a puck in a big loop around the coach.

How it runs

Everyone carries the puck around the loop at an easy speed.
The coach holds up fingers. Players shout the number as soon as they see it.
On the whistle, change direction so both forehand and backhand get work.

Coaching points

Feel the puck, don't look at it.
Puck slightly in front so you can see it with your low eyes.
Keep the stick blade cupped over the puck.
Shout loud, it proves your head is up.

Easier

Walk speed. Coach holds the fingers up longer and closer. Players can glance down every few steps.

Harder

Faster loop with quick stickhandles. Coach adds colours or simple sums. On a fist, players do a tight turn on the spot.

Circle Protection 1v1

Protecting the puckCompete8 minPairs, 20-second shifts

Setup. One pair in each faceoff circle. The attacker has a puck, the defender starts on the dot. Other pairs wait at the blue line.

How it runs

On the whistle, the attacker keeps the puck inside the circle for 20 seconds.
The defender tries to knock it out or steal it with the stick.
Swap roles, then the next pairs go.

Coaching points

Body between the defender and the puck.
Puck on the far side, away from the stick.
Wide stance, low hips, strong on your skates.
Keep moving, don't stand still.

Easier

Defender uses the stick only and goes at half speed. Shorter 10-second shifts. Pair by size and skill.

Harder

Attacker uses one hand on the stick, free arm holds off the defender. Two defenders on one attacker. Make the circle half size with cones.

Backhand Lanes

BackhandPuck control8 minWhole team, 2 lines

Setup. Two lines at the blue line, one on each side, with pucks. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Carry the puck along the boards and around behind the circle on the backhand only.
Cut to the front of the net and finish with a backhand shot.
Next player goes from the other side. Join the back of the other line.

Coaching points

Puck on the backhand side, blade cupped over it.
Bottom hand slides down for control.
Push the puck, don't slap at it.
Backhand shot: sweep and lift, follow through high.

Easier

Walk speed, forehand and backhand allowed but count the backhand touches. Shoot from close in, no goalie.

Harder

Backhand only the whole way, full speed. Forehand to backhand deke before the shot. One-handed backhand carry for a few strides.

Wall Escapes

EscapesProtecting the puck10 minWhole team, 2 lines + 2 D

Setup. Lines on each side at the blue line, along the boards, with pucks. A cone at the hash marks near the boards. A defender waits inside each circle. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Carry down the boards. At the cone the defender closes in.
Do an escape turn toward the boards, away from the defender, and come back up.
Cut to the middle and shoot. Sides alternate.

Coaching points

Turn away from pressure, toward the boards.
Puck on the far side, shoulder to the defender.
Look over your shoulder after the turn.
Explode out of the turn, then attack the middle.

Easier

No defender, only the cone. Do a slow stop and turn back instead of a tight turn. Shoot from the slot standing still.

Harder

Defender plays live after the turn. Two escape turns in a row. Pass to the coach at the point after the escape, get it back and shoot.

Traffic Box

Carrying through trafficHeads up6 min6 to 10 players per box

Setup. Four cones make a big box. Everyone is inside the box with a puck. Coach on the side with a whistle.

How it runs

Everyone skates and stickhandles inside the box, no bumping.
On the whistle, change direction or switch to the backhand.
Coach makes the box smaller every 30 seconds.

Coaching points

Eyes up to find open ice.
Short, quick touches in tight space.
Protect the puck with your body when someone is close.
Keep the feet moving, find the gaps.

Easier

Bigger box and fewer players. Walk speed. Coach calls who has the puck, others skate without one.

Harder

Smaller box. Coach adds two players with no puck who try to poke check. Steal a cone: last player to a cone does a tight turn.

Breakaway Dekes

DekesFinishing8 minWhole team, 1 line

Setup. One line at the blue line in the middle with pucks. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Carry the puck at the goalie with speed.
Show forehand, then pull the puck across to the backhand.
Tuck it in past the goalie's pad. Next player goes when you finish.

Coaching points

Big fake: shoulders and eyes sell it.
Wide pull, reach the puck past the pad.
Keep the feet moving through the deke.
Start the deke outside the crease, not in it.

Easier

No goalie, deke around a cone in the slot then shoot. Slow speed, one simple fake.

Harder

Coach calls the deke as you cross the top of the circles: forehand-backhand, backhand-forehand or shot fake. Add a back-checker chasing from the blue line.

Skate-to-Stick Kick

Puck off the skatesPuck control6 min4 lanes, waves of 4

Setup. Four lanes across the zone. Players start at the blue line, each with a puck.

How it runs

Carry the puck slowly down the lane.
At each K, push the puck back to your skate and kick it forward onto the blade.
Glide back on the side. Next wave goes.

Coaching points

Turn the skate blade like a putter.
Kick soft, the puck should land on the stick.
Keep your balance on the other leg.
Look at the puck only when it is at the skate.

Easier

Standing still, the coach rolls a puck to the skate and the player kicks it to the stick. Then try it gliding.

Harder

Kick from the back skate while at full speed. Kick it from one skate to the other, then to the stick. Do it in the traffic box.

Stick Obstacle Course

StickhandlingFun10 minWhole team, 1 line

Setup. Lay sticks and cones around the zone. One stick sits up on two cones like a low bridge. Players start at the blue line with pucks.

How it runs

Slide the puck under the bridge stick and step over it, then pick the puck up.
Weave the cones, pull the puck around the stick on the ice and do a tight turn at the last cone.
Next player starts when the one before reaches the weave.

Coaching points

Small touches before each obstacle.
Get the puck back fast after the bridge.
Eyes up between obstacles.
Quality first, then speed.

Easier

Fewer obstacles and walk speed. Leave out the bridge, just go around the sticks.

Harder

Time each player. Backhand only through the weave. Add a pass to the coach and a shot at the end.

Deke the Defender

Dekes1v1 attack10 minWhole team, 1 line + D

Setup. Attackers in one line at the blue line with pucks. One defender in the high slot. Goalie in net.

How it runs

The attacker carries at the defender, who skates backward.
Fake inside, then pull the puck wide around the defender's stick.
Cut back to the net and shoot. The attacker becomes the next defender.

Coaching points

Attack the defender's feet to freeze them.
Pull the puck wide, out of stick reach.
Lower the shoulder and protect after the deke.
Get to the net fast, shoot on the move.

Easier

Defender stands still and only holds the stick out. Use a cone as the defender for near U8 skaters.

Harder

Defender plays live. Attacker must use a toe drag or a between-the-legs move. Add a second defender at the circle.

Circle Crossover Carry

Crossovers with puckPuck control6 minWhole team, 2 lines

Setup. Two lines near the top of each faceoff circle, everyone with a puck.

How it runs

Carry the puck around the circle with crossovers the whole way.
Keep the puck on the forehand going one way and the backhand the other way.
Next player goes when you are halfway round. Do 4 reps, then switch direction.

Coaching points

Puck out in front, on the inside of the circle.
Lean in, cross the outside foot over.
Two hands on the stick, top hand in control.
Look at the next spot, not at the puck.

Easier

Bigger circle and C-cuts, no crossovers. One hand on the stick pushing the puck is fine.

Harder

Stickhandle side to side while crossing over. Do a tight turn at the dot and go the other way. Race around both circles.

Shark Attack

Protecting the puckCarrying through trafficFun8 minWhole team

Setup. Minnows with pucks along the top boards. Two sharks with no puck in the middle of the zone.

How it runs

On the whistle, minnows carry their puck to the bottom boards.
Sharks try to knock pucks off the ice or out of play. Lose your puck and you become a shark.
Go back and forth until only one minnow is left.

Coaching points

Keep your head up to find the gaps.
Use a fake to beat a shark.
Protect with your body when a shark is close.
Change speed, slow then burst.

Easier

Sharks must skate holding their stick with one hand, or the sharks have no sticks. Bigger area.

Harder

Minnows must stay inside the faceoff circle width. Sharks start with three players. Backhand only for minnows.

Follow the Leader

Heads upStickhandling6 minPairs

Setup. Pairs anywhere in the zone, both players with a puck. One leader, one follower.

How it runs

The leader carries the puck and makes moves: turns, stops, toe drags, dekes.
The follower stays one stick length behind and copies every move.
Swap leader every 30 seconds.

Coaching points

Follower: eyes on the leader, not the puck.
Leader: change speed and direction.
Keep the puck close in turns.
Stay inside our zone, use all of it.

Easier

Leader skates slowly with simple moves only. Follower can be without a puck first.

Harder

Follower must stay close side by side, not behind. Leader adds backward skating with the puck. Pair strong with strong.

Passing

Partner Passing Lanes

PassingReceiving8 minPairs

Setup. Pairs facing each other across the zone, 20 to 25 ft apart. One puck per pair.

How it runs

10 forehand passes each, then 10 backhand.
Then one-touch: pass straight back without stopping the puck.
Rotate partners so stronger and weaker players pass together.

Coaching points

Sweep the puck, don't slap it.
Follow through and point the blade at your partner.
Receive with a soft give, like catching an egg.
Stick blade on the ice is the target.

Easier

10 ft apart. Stop the puck first, look, then pass. Forehand only until it's clean.

Harder

One-touch passes. Saucer passes over a stick laid on the ice. Pairs skate side by side from the goal line to the blue line passing on the move.

Give-and-Go to the Net

Passing on the moveShooting10 minWhole team, 2 lines

Setup. One line on each side along the boards at the blue line, with pucks. Coach at the point. Cone at the top of each circle. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Pass to the coach, then skate around the cone right away.
Coach passes back. Take it in stride.
Attack the net and shoot. Next player goes from the other side.

Coaching points

Pass and move: no standing to watch your pass.
Show your stick as a target before the pass comes.
Receive in stride, don't stop.
Shoot while moving, pick a spot.

Easier

Stop at the cone and receive standing still, then skate in and shoot. Coach gives a slow, flat pass.

Harder

Shoot within one stride of the pass (quick release). Add a back-checker from the other line chasing from the blue line.

Triangle Passing

PassingReceiving7 minGroups of 3

Setup. Groups of three stand in a triangle about 15 to 20 ft apart. One puck per group. Use both circles and the high slot.

How it runs

Pass the puck around the triangle in one direction.
After 10 passes, switch direction so everyone uses forehand and backhand.
Last round: receive, take one stickhandle, then pass.

Coaching points

Open your blade toward the next player before the puck arrives.
Pass to the blade, not the skates.
Cushion the puck, then pass it on.
Talk: call your partner's name.

Easier

Make the triangle smaller, about 10 ft. Stop the puck, look, then pass. Forehand only to start.

Harder

One-touch passes only. Add a second puck going the other way. Make it a bigger triangle with saucer passes.

Square Pass & Follow

PassingPass and move8 minGroups of 5

Setup. Two squares of four spots about 20 ft apart, one in each half. One player on each corner and an extra player at the start corner with the puck.

How it runs

Pass to the next corner, then skate to that corner and wait behind.
The player who gets the puck passes on right away and follows the pass.
Go one way for a minute, then switch direction.

Coaching points

Pass, then move your feet right away.
Stick on the ice before the puck comes.
Pass in front of the skater if they are moving.
Square your shoulders to your target.

Easier

Stop the puck fully before passing. Walk or glide to the next corner. Smaller square.

Harder

Two pucks in the square at once. One-touch passes. Skate backward to the next corner.

Saucer Pass Over Sticks

Saucer passReceiving8 minPairs

Setup. Pairs face each other about 20 ft apart. Lay a spare stick flat on the ice halfway between them. One puck per pair.

How it runs

Pass the puck over the stick so it lands flat on the other side.
Partner catches the saucer with a soft blade and passes it back over.
10 forehand each, then 10 backhand.

Coaching points

Puck starts at the heel, rolls off the toe.
Blade turns open and lifts a little at the end.
Aim for the puck to land flat, like a flying saucer.
Receive with a soft, angled blade.

Easier

No stick on the ice, just try to make the puck spin flat. Use a glove or a thin line as the target instead. Partners 10 ft apart.

Harder

Two sticks stacked, or a stick on top of two pucks. Saucer while skating side by side. Catch it and pass back in one smooth move.

Bank Pass Off Boards

Bank passShooting8 minWhole team, 2 stations

Setup. One station per side. A stands near the boards with pucks, B about 25 ft away along the same wall. A player or cone D stands in the direct lane between them. Goalie in net.

How it runs

A passes the puck into the boards so it bounces off and goes past D to B.
B takes the puck, cuts to the slot and shoots.
A goes to B, B goes to the back of line A. Sides take turns.

Coaching points

Aim for the spot on the boards halfway between you and your partner.
Pass firm, the boards slow the puck down.
Keep the puck flat on the ice.
B: stick on the ice near the boards.

Easier

Move closer to the boards. Take away D. B stops the puck and just shoots from standing.

Harder

B is skating when the bank pass is made. D moves and tries to block the pass. Bank it to a moving player then a one-timer.

Backhand Receiving

Receiving on the backhandShooting8 minWhole team, 2 lines

Setup. Two lines at the blue line near the boards. One coach on each side of the high slot with pucks. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Skate in from the boards and cut across the slot.
The coach on the far side passes to your backhand.
Pull it to your forehand and shoot. Lines take turns.

Coaching points

Backhand blade flat on the ice, a bit in front of you.
Let the puck come to you, give with the blade.
Pull it across your body to the forehand.
Keep your feet moving while you catch.

Easier

Stand still and take backhand passes from the coach. Slow, flat passes. Then glide through.

Harder

Shoot the backhand right away with no switch to the forehand. Skate at full speed. Coach makes the pass a little behind you.

Pass & Follow Lines

PassingPass and move6 minGroups of 4 to 6

Setup. Two short lines face each other about 30 ft apart. Make one set on each side of the zone. One puck per set.

How it runs

The first player in line A passes to the first player in line B.
After the pass, skate to the back of line B.
B passes back and follows the pass to line A. Keep it going.

Coaching points

Pass and go right away, no watching.
Next player in line steps up and shows a stick target.
Flat, firm passes.
Use your backhand on the way back.

Easier

Lines 15 ft apart. Stop the puck before passing. Walk to the other line if needed.

Harder

One-touch passes only. Two pucks in each set. Skate backward to the other line.

Cross-Ice Pass & Shoot

Cross-ice passShooting10 minWhole team, 2 lines

Setup. One line on each side at the blue line. Line 1 has the pucks. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Player 1 carries down the boards. Player 2 skates to the net from the other side.
Player 1 passes across the slot to player 2's stick.
Player 2 shoots. Swap lines and switch sides each rep.

Coaching points

Head up: see your partner before you pass.
Pass to where they will be, not where they are.
Shooter: stick on the ice, ready to shoot.
Firm pass, the goalie is moving across.

Easier

Player 2 stands still in the slot. Player 1 stops before passing. Shorter pass, closer to the net.

Harder

Player 2 shoots one-time. Add a defender in the slot to pass around. Saucer the pass over a stick.

Double Give-and-Go

Give-and-goPassing on the move10 min1 line, 2 support players

Setup. One line at the blue line with pucks. One support player S on the top boards, one in the high slot. Change support players every few reps. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Pass to the boards player, skate past and get the puck back.
Pass to the slot player, skate to the net and get it back again.
Shoot. The shooter replaces a support player.

Coaching points

Give and go: move the moment the puck leaves your stick.
Support players: give a lead pass in front of the skater.
Keep your stick on the ice the whole time.
Two quick passes, then a quick shot.

Easier

Only one give-and-go. Skater glides and the support player passes softly. Stop before shooting if needed.

Harder

One-touch passes from support players. Add a defender who chases from the blue line. Finish with a deke instead of a shot.

Circle Timing Passes

TimingLead passes8 min2 groups of 4 or more

Setup. One passer P on each faceoff dot with pucks. The rest of the group lines up at the top of the circle.

How it runs

Skate around the circle. P passes ahead of you so you take it in stride.
Pass it back to P while you keep skating. Get 2 or 3 passes per lap.
Next skater goes at half a lap. Switch passer every minute.

Coaching points

Passer: aim one stick length in front of the skater.
Skater: stick on the ice, blade facing the passer.
Keep your feet moving through the catch.
Look at the passer, not at the puck.

Easier

Skaters glide slowly around the circle. Passer waits until the skater is close and makes a short pass.

Harder

One-touch returns. Skate with crossovers at full speed. Go the other way so the backhand gets the catch.

Gate Pass on the Move

Passing on the movePairs8 minPairs, 2 lanes

Setup. Two lanes from the top boards to the bottom boards. Three gates of two cones down the middle of each lane. Pairs start at the top.

How it runs

Partners skate side by side down the lane.
Pass back and forth through each gate. Every pass must go through a gate.
Glide back along the blue line. Next pair goes.

Coaching points

Pass ahead of your partner, not at their skates.
Keep the same speed as your partner.
Stick on the ice, blade facing your partner.
Count your gates: 3 clean passes is a full rep.

Easier

Skate slowly or glide. Make the gates wide. It is fine to stop the puck before passing.

Harder

Narrow gates, full speed. One-touch passes. Skate backward and pass.

Star Passing

PassingCommunication7 minGroups of 6

Setup. Five players stand in a star shape, about 25 ft from each other across the star. One extra player waits behind the top spot. Start with one puck.

How it runs

Pass to the player two spots over, so the puck draws a star.
After your pass, call the name of the next player.
After 1 minute add a second puck. The extra player swaps in every round.

Coaching points

Know where the puck goes before it comes to you.
Call names to keep it clean.
Flat passes to the blade.
Turn your hips toward the target.

Easier

Pass to the next spot, around the outside, not across. One puck only. Stop the puck each time.

Harder

Two or three pucks at once. One-touch passes. Every second pass is a backhand.

Two-Puck Hot Potato

PassingAwareness6 minGroups of 6

Setup. Six players stand around each faceoff circle. Two pucks per circle.

How it runs

Call a name, then pass to that player anywhere in the circle.
Both pucks move at the same time. Don't hold the puck.
If a puck gets missed, the group starts the count again from zero.

Coaching points

Head up: know where both pucks are.
Call the name before you pass.
Catch, look, pass. Under two seconds.
Pass firm enough to get across the circle.

Easier

One puck only. Pass to the player beside you. Pass from standing still.

Harder

Three pucks. No calling names, use eye contact only. Players move to a new spot after each pass.

Low-to-High Point Shot

Passing up the wallPoint shots8 minF line and D line

Setup. Forwards line up on the top boards near the circle with pucks. Defence line up at the point. Goalie in net. Switch sides halfway.

How it runs

F passes up the boards to D at the point.
D walks the puck to the middle and shoots low. F skates to the net to screen.
F goes to the D line and D goes to the F line.

Coaching points

Pass hard and flat along the wall.
D: stop the puck first, then walk with the head up.
Shoot low so the screen and rebounds can work.
Screen: stand still in front of the goalie, stick on the ice.

Easier

D stands still and shoots right after the catch. Shorter pass from the hash marks.

Harder

D one-times the pass. Add a forward who pressures D at the point. F tips the shot.

Relay Pass Race

Passing accuracyFun race6 min2 teams of 5

Setup. Two teams stand in a straight line across the zone, about 12 ft apart. First player in each line has a puck.

How it runs

On the whistle, pass the puck down the line to the last player.
The last player passes it back up the line to the first player.
First team to get it back wins. Mix up the order and race again.

Coaching points

Accuracy beats speed: a missed pass costs more time.
Stick on the ice, show the target.
Catch and turn your blade to the next player.
Cheer your team on.

Easier

Players 8 ft apart. Stop the puck each time. A missed pass can be picked up with no penalty.

Harder

One-touch passes. Backhand only on the way back. A missed pass sends the puck back to the start.

Drop Pass & Shoot

Drop passShooting8 min2 lines

Setup. Two lines at the blue line, about 15 ft apart. Line 1 has the pucks. One cone in the high slot. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Player 1 carries to the cone and leaves the puck dead behind them.
Player 2 follows, picks up the drop pass and shoots.
Player 1 goes to the net for a screen and rebound. Swap lines.

Coaching points

Drop pass: stop the puck dead, don't push it back.
Say 'drop' so your partner knows.
Trailer: stay 2 or 3 stick lengths behind.
Shooter: shoot in stride.

Easier

Player 1 stops at the cone and leaves the puck. Player 2 skates slowly to it. Shoot from standing still.

Harder

Drop at full speed with no cone. Add a defender who has to guess who gets the puck. Trailer one-times it.

Shooting

Net Drive & Rebound

ShootingNet-front play10 minWhole team, 2 lines

Setup. Line A at the blue line in the middle with pucks. Line B on the top boards at the hash marks. Goalie in net.

How it runs

A and B start together. A carries in and shoots low from the high slot.
B drives hard to the net, stops at the edge of the crease and buries any rebound.
A goes to line B, B goes to line A.

Coaching points

Shoot low to the pads, that's where rebounds come from.
Net driver stops at the net, don't skate through.
Blade flat on the ice, ready.
Stay out of the blue paint.

Easier

B starts at the net already (no drive). Shooter moves closer. Coach can take the shot so the rebound is predictable.

Harder

Add a defender boxing B out. Shooter takes a pass from the coach first. B tips the shot instead of waiting for a rebound.

Wrist Shot Basics

Wrist shotTechnique8 minWhole team, 3 lines

Setup. Three short lines in the slot about 25 ft from the net, each with a pile of pucks. Coach behind the lines. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Shooter 1 takes a wrist shot from a standing start.
Shooter 2 goes when the goalie is set, then shooter 3.
After your shot, go to the back of the next line to the right.

Coaching points

Puck starts at the heel of the blade, beside the back foot.
Shift weight from back foot to front foot.
Roll the wrists and point the blade at the target.
Eyes on the target, not the puck.

Easier

Move to 15 ft. Shoot at an empty net or a big target first. Just slide the puck along the ice with a long sweep.

Harder

Shoot from 35 ft. Pick a corner the coach calls. Take one stride before the shot so the weight transfer is real.

Pull and Snap

SnapshotQuick release8 minWhole team, 2 lines

Setup. Two lines at the blue line, one per side, with pucks. A cone at the top of each circle. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Carry the puck down to the cone.
At the cone, pull the puck in toward your body and snap it on net right away.
Lines go one after the other. Shooters switch lines.

Coaching points

Short backswing, quick snap.
Pulling the puck in changes the angle on the goalie.
Blade closes over the puck as you shoot.
Keep your feet moving through the shot.

Easier

Stop at the cone, pull the puck in slowly, then shoot. Walking speed is fine.

Harder

Full speed. No pause between the pull and the shot. Coach stands at the cone as a fake defender to shoot around.

Backhand Cut-Ins

BackhandShooting in close8 minWhole team, 2 lines

Setup. Two lines at the blue line near the boards, with pucks. A cone at the top of each circle. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Skate down the wall, go outside the cone and cut across the front of the net.
Take a backhand shot as you cross in front.
Lines alternate. Change lines each time so you cut both ways.

Coaching points

Puck on the backhand side, cupped with the blade.
Bottom hand pushes, top hand pulls.
Lift by finishing with the blade pointing up.
Look at the net, not the puck.

Easier

Stand still in front of the net and shoot backhands along the ice. Then walk it slowly.

Harder

Fake a forehand, then pull to the backhand. Lift the puck over the pad. Shoot from 20 ft.

Shoot in Stride

Shooting in strideWrist shot8 minWhole team, 2 lines

Setup. Two lines at the blue line with pucks. A cone at the top of each circle marks the shooting spot. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Skate hard with the puck toward the cone.
Shoot as you reach the cone, without stopping or gliding.
Lines alternate. Stop at the net for a rebound, then join the other line.

Coaching points

Shoot off the foot that is landing, keep striding.
Puck slightly in front, not beside the skates.
Head up before the shot to pick a spot.
Follow through toward the net.

Easier

Glide on two feet and shoot. Half speed. Coach places the puck at the cone so they only skate and shoot.

Harder

Shoot off either foot as the coach calls it. Add a deke at the cone before the shot. Use the far cone for a longer shot.

Point Feed One-Timer

Shots off a passQuick release10 minWhole team, 2 lines

Setup. Two lines at the blue line along the boards. Coach at the top of the zone with pucks. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Skate down to the top of the circle and face the coach.
Coach passes. Shoot it as fast as you can.
Next player goes from the other side.

Coaching points

Stick on the ice as a target before the pass.
Open your body to the passer and the net.
Shoot in one or two touches, no extra stickhandling.
Weight on the back foot, then step into it.

Easier

Stop the pass, settle it, then shoot. Coach gives slow, flat passes from closer.

Harder

True one-timer: no stop, hit it right off the pass. Coach changes where the pass goes. A player passes instead of the coach.

Low Feed Shot

Shots off a passPassing10 minWhole team, 1 line + passer

Setup. One line at the blue line. One passer low near the goal line beside the net with pucks. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Skate into the slot without a puck.
The passer feeds you from low. Shoot right away.
Shooter becomes the next passer. Passer goes to the line.

Coaching points

Show the passer your blade early.
Square your shoulders to the net as the pass comes.
Catch it on the heel, release from the toe.
Passer: firm pass on the ice, lead the shooter.

Easier

Shooter stops in the slot and waits for the pass. Passer stands closer.

Harder

Shooter must one-time it. Passer can choose to pass or walk out and shoot. Add a defender in the slot.

Shoot and Follow

ReboundsNet drive8 minWhole team, 1 line

Setup. One line in the middle at the blue line with pucks. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Carry the puck in and shoot low from the high slot.
Keep skating straight to the net after the shot.
Stop at the crease and bang in any rebound. Next player goes.

Coaching points

Low shots make rebounds.
Never stop to watch your shot.
Stop at the net, stick blade flat on the ice.
Look for the puck, not the goalie.

Easier

Shoot from closer. Coach tosses a second puck to the crease so there is always a rebound.

Harder

Two shots: shoot, follow, then the coach passes a new puck for a quick second shot. Add a defender who boxes you out.

Screen and Tip

ScreensTipsNet-front play10 min2 point lines + 1 net-front player

Setup. Two lines at the top of the zone with pucks. One player at the top of the crease. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Point shooters take turns shooting low and hard at the net.
The net-front player screens the goalie or tips the shot.
Rotate the net-front player every 5 shots.

Coaching points

Shooters: low and on net, aim for the pads.
Net player: stick on the ice, blade angled down.
Stand still and strong, don't jump out of the way.
Stay outside the blue paint.

Easier

Coach takes slow shots along the ice. Net player just stands and screens, no tip. Use soft pucks if you have them.

Harder

Net player moves to find the shot lane and tips it. Add a defender to fight for position. Shooters shoot off a pass.

Blue Line Breakaway

BreakawaysDeke or shoot10 min2 lines

Setup. Shooter line in the middle of the blue line with pucks. Chaser line beside it. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Shooter takes off with the puck on the whistle.
Chaser waits one second, then chases to catch up.
Shooter scores with a shot or a deke. Switch lines.

Coaching points

Skate fast early, slow down a little near the net.
Decide early: shot or deke.
Shot: aim for the holes, like over the pad.
Deke: move the goalie, then go wide to the open side.

Easier

No chaser. Skate in at half speed and shoot from the hash marks.

Harder

Chaser leaves right away. Shooter must use a deke. Start with the puck on the coach's pass.

Around the World

Shooting competitionAccuracy10 minSmall groups

Setup. Five cones in an arc around the net about 20 ft out. Players wait in a line in the middle with pucks. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Shoot from spot 1. Score and you move to spot 2 next turn.
Miss and you stay on the same spot next turn.
First player to score from all five spots wins.

Coaching points

Pick a spot before you shoot.
Use different shots at different spots.
Quick shots beat the goalie.
Cheer for your teammates.

Easier

Move the cones closer. Hitting the net counts as a goal.

Harder

Push the cones out to 30 ft. A goal must be in the top half. Backhand only on spots 1 and 5.

Shootout Race

Shooting competitionScoring under pressure8 min2 teams

Setup. Two teams at the blue line, one per side, with pucks. A cone at each top of the circle. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Teams take turns: one shooter from team A, then one from team B.
Curl around your cone with the puck and shoot.
Coach counts goals. First team to 5 wins.

Coaching points

Speed around the cone, then control.
Head up to see the goalie.
Shoot hard and low or pick a corner.
Hustle back to the line.

Easier

Skip the cone and skate straight in. Mix strong and new players on each team.

Harder

Must finish with a deke or backhand. Goals only count in the top half. Losing team does a quick lap.

Goalie Warm-Up Arc

Goalie warm-upAccuracy6 min5 shooters + goalie

Setup. Five shooters in an arc about 25 ft from the net, each with pucks. Coach at the top. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Shooters go in order 1 to 5, waiting until the goalie is set.
Round 1: low shots to the pads. Round 2: glove and blocker.
Round 3: shot plus rebound. Then swap shooters.

Coaching points

The goal is to warm the goalie up, not to score.
Hit the spot the coach calls.
Wait for the goalie to be set every time.
Medium speed shots, on net.

Easier

Shooters move in to 15 ft and shoot along the ice only.

Harder

Shooters snap it from 30 ft. Goalie must control every rebound. Shooters call out the spot before shooting.

Point Walk and Shoot

Point shotsDefence8 min2 lines + net-front player

Setup. Two lines in the top corners just inside the blue line, with pucks. One forward in front of the net. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Carry the puck along the blue line toward the middle.
Shoot through traffic when you find a lane.
Forward screens or tips. Sides alternate. Rotate the forward.

Coaching points

Stay inside the blue line, head up.
Move sideways to open a shooting lane.
Low, hard and on net: a wrist shot is fine.
Get the shot off fast, don't wind up for long.

Easier

Shoot from a standing start with no forward in front. Shoot along the ice.

Harder

Fake a shot, slide sideways, then shoot. Add a forward who pressures the shooter. Aim for the tip stick.

Post Jam

Wraparound moveShooting in close8 minWhole team, 2 lines

Setup. Two lines at the bottom of each circle with pucks. Goalie in net. We have no ice behind the net, so the move goes across the front.

How it runs

Carry the puck low toward the post, close to the goal line.
Skate across the top of the crease and jam the puck in at the far post.
Lines alternate. Switch lines so you go both ways.

Coaching points

Stay low and tight to the crease edge, not in it.
Puck stays out front where you can see it.
Jam it hard along the ice past the pad.
Keep going: a second jam often scores.

Easier

Start beside the post and just jam the puck in. Walk it slowly first.

Harder

Fake the shot at the near post, then go across. Add a defender who chases from the circle.

Call the Corner

AccuracyShots off a pass8 minWhole team, 1 line

Setup. One line near the blue line on one side. Coach on the other side with pucks. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Skate into the slot. Coach passes to you.
As the pass goes, the coach calls a side: glove or blocker.
Shoot to that side. Switch sides of the ice every few minutes.

Coaching points

Listen and decide fast.
Eyes find the spot before you shoot.
Point the blade at the target on the follow-through.
Accuracy first, then power.

Easier

Coach calls the side before the pass. Shoot along the ice to the left or right.

Harder

Coach calls high or low too. Call it late, just before the shot. Count only shots that hit the called spot.

Battles & small games

Corner Race 1v1

CompetePuck protectionBack-checking10 min2 lines, 1 pair at a time

Setup. Two lines side by side at the blue line. Coach at the point with pucks. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Coach dumps the puck into the corner. The first player from each line races for it.
Whoever gets it protects it and attacks the net. The other player defends.
Play until a goal, a save or the puck leaves the zone. Next pair.

Coaching points

First three strides decide the race.
Get your body between the puck and your opponent.
Defender: stick on the puck, stay between the opponent and the net.
Compete, but play safe along the boards.

Easier

Pair players of the same level. Give the weaker skater a two-stick head start. No body contact, stick checks only.

Harder

Coach dumps to either corner without warning. Make it 2v2. Attacker must make one pass to the coach before shooting.

Keep Away 3v1

SupportPassing under pressure8 minGroups of 4

Setup. Three groups of four: one in each faceoff circle and one in a box of cones near the blue line. One puck per group.

How it runs

Three attackers keep the puck inside the circle or box. The defender tries to touch it.
Count passes in a row. Swap the defender every 30 seconds, or when they win the puck.
Rotate groups so each player has a turn in the middle.

Coaching points

After you pass, move to an open lane.
Show a stick target to the puck carrier.
Short, quick passes beat long ones.
Defender: stick on the ice, take away one lane.

Easier

Make it 4v1. Defender may only use the stick, no body. Use the bigger area of the circle.

Harder

2v1 in the box. One-touch passes only. First group to 10 passes in a row wins.

King of the Circle

Puck protectionPoke checks6 minWhole team, split in 2 circles

Setup. Split the team between the two faceoff circles. Every player has a puck and stays inside the circle line.

How it runs

On the whistle, keep your own puck and try to poke other pucks out of the circle.
If your puck leaves the circle, skate out, do 10 toe drags by the boards and come back in.
Play 45 seconds. Count who never lost their puck.

Coaching points

Head up, find space away from others.
Keep your body between your puck and the closest player.
Poke with one hand, keep your own puck close.
Stick checks only, no pushing.

Easier

Bigger area (both circles joined with cones). Players without a puck can only lift sticks, not take pucks. Walk-speed rounds first.

Harder

Shrink the area to half a circle. Once your puck is out, you are out until the last player wins. Backhand-only poke checks.

Protect the Puck 1v1

Puck protectionBody position8 minPairs, 4 boxes

Setup. Four cone boxes about 15 ft square. One pair per box with one puck. Extra pairs wait by the boards and go next.

How it runs

A keeps the puck inside the box for 30 seconds. D tries to steal it or push it out of the box.
If D wins the puck, roles switch right away.
Rest 30 seconds while the next pair goes, then swap who starts with the puck.

Coaching points

Wide stance, knees bent, low and strong.
Puck on the far side of your body, away from the stick.
Turn your back or shoulder to the defender, keep moving your feet.
Defender: stick on the puck first, then body.

Easier

Defender uses the stick only, one hand on top. 15-second rounds. Pair players of the same level.

Harder

Smaller boxes (10 ft). Defender may use body position. Attacker must keep the puck on the backhand for the last 10 seconds.

Gap Control 1v1

DefendingBackward skating1v1 attack10 minF and D lines, both sides

Setup. Forwards line up on the boards at the blue line with pucks. Defence wait at the top of the circles. Same setup on both sides. Goalie in net.

How it runs

D passes to F, steps up, stops and pivots to skate backward.
F attacks the net. D keeps a stick-length gap and steers F to the outside.
Play until a goal, save or D clears the puck. Next pair goes from the other side.

Coaching points

D: match the forward's speed, don't stand still.
Stick on the ice, aim at the puck, not the body.
Keep inside position, chest facing the attacker.
F: change speed or direction to beat the gap.

Easier

F carries at half speed. D skates backward without the pass and pivot. Score a point for every poke check.

Harder

F starts with a quick give-and-go from the coach. D must angle F wide of the dots. Add a back-checker for a 1v2.

Mirror Lane Battle

Gap controlAgility6 minPairs, 2 lanes

Setup. Two cone lanes along the boards, about 15 ft wide, from the blue line to the circles. A starts near the blue line, D faces A a few strides in front.

How it runs

A skates forward and fakes left and right to get past D to the finish cones.
D skates backward and mirrors A, staying in front the whole way.
Switch roles each rep. Next pair goes when the first pair finishes.

Coaching points

D: eyes on the chest, not the stick.
Short quick C-cuts, never cross your feet backward.
A: sell the fake with your shoulders.
Stay inside the lane, no contact.

Easier

No contest: A skates a slow pattern and D just copies it. Wider lane so D has more room.

Harder

A carries a puck. D can poke check once A crosses the circle. Narrower lane (10 ft).

Net-Front Battle

Net-front playBody position8 minPairs, coach shooting

Setup. Coach at the top of the zone with pucks. One forward and one defender in front of the net, outside the crease. Next pair waits on the side. Goalie in net.

How it runs

F battles for a spot in front of the goalie. D tries to move F out of the way.
Coach shoots low. F screens, tips or buries the rebound. D clears the puck to the corner.
Three shots, then swap roles. Next pair goes.

Coaching points

Stick on the ice, blade facing the shooter.
D: body position and stick lifts, no cross-checks.
F: wide strong stance, don't stand in the crease.
Find the puck after every shot.

Easier

Coach shoots slow along the ice. No body battle: F and D just race to rebounds. Short 3-second plays.

Harder

Coach passes to a player at the point who shoots. Goals from tips count double. D must win the puck and pass to the coach.

Get-Up Puck Race

Quick startsCompete8 min2 lines, 1 pair at a time

Setup. Two lines between the circles. The front player of each line kneels on the ice. Coach at the blue line with pucks. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Coach slides a puck into the slot. Both players jump up and race to it.
The winner attacks the net and shoots. The other player defends.
Play until a goal or a save. Change the start: on your belly, sitting, or facing the wrong way.

Coaching points

Get up fast: one knee, push, run on the blades.
First three strides short and quick.
Losing the race? Turn into a defender right away.
Stick down when you reach the puck.

Easier

Start standing. Coach slides the puck closer to the weaker skater. No defending: both players just race and the winner shoots.

Harder

Start on your belly or facing the boards. Coach slides the puck to odd spots. Make it 2v2 with partners behind.

Boards Puck Battle

Puck battlesStick lifts8 minPairs, 2 stations

Setup. Two stations on the boards, one on each side. Two cones mark a 20 ft area. Coach stands in front of each station with pucks.

How it runs

Coach puts a puck on the boards. Both players skate in to win it.
Use body position, stick lifts and foot kicks to get the puck.
The winner passes to the coach to score a point. First to three points.

Coaching points

Get inside position: shoulder in front, hip on hip.
Lift the stick, then take the puck.
Kick the puck to your stick with your skate.
No hits from behind, no checking into the boards.

Easier

Stick lifts only, no body. Coach places the puck a stick length off the boards. Play in slow motion first.

Harder

Puck starts in the corner of the cone area. Winner must spin off the boards before passing. Add a third player who supports the winner.

Circle 1v1 to Net

Compete1v1 attack10 minPairs, both circles

Setup. Coach on top of each faceoff circle drops a puck on the dot. Two players start on the circle line on opposite sides. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Coach drops the puck. Both players battle for it inside the circle.
The winner must carry the puck out of the circle, then attack the net. The other player defends.
Play until a goal or a save. Next pair goes from the other circle.

Coaching points

Low and strong to win the battle.
Protect the puck before you go to the net.
Defender: stay between attacker and net.
Shoot fast once you are free.

Easier

Coach rolls the puck closer to the weaker player. Defender uses the stick only. Shooter can stop and shoot.

Harder

Coach drops two pucks: second puck is live after the first shot. Winner must make a move before shooting.

Angling 1v1

AnglingDefending8 minA and D lines, both sides

Setup. Attackers on the boards at the blue line with pucks. Defenders in the middle. Two cones on each side make an inside gate near the hash marks.

How it runs

A carries the puck down the boards and tries to cut inside through the gate.
D skates on an angle to push A to the boards and take the puck.
A scores a point through the gate, D scores a point for a steal. Switch roles.

Coaching points

D: aim at a spot in front of the attacker, not at them.
Stick on the ice in the inside lane.
Close the space, then stick on puck.
A: change speed to get inside.

Easier

A skates at half speed. D only needs to touch the puck with the stick. No body contact at all.

Harder

D starts further away (top of the zone) and has to catch up. A can cut back to the outside. Add a second puck for a quick rematch.

2v2 Cone Goals

Small-area gameSupport10 minTeams of 2, 40-second shifts

Setup. Play across the zone from the blue line to the top of the circles. Cone goals on the top and bottom boards. Cones mark the side line. Next teams wait at the blue line.

How it runs

Coach puts a puck in. Each team attacks one cone goal and defends the other.
Score by carrying the puck through the cones under control.
40-second shifts. Next pairs jump on when the coach whistles.

Coaching points

Puck carrier: head up, find your partner.
Without the puck, get open for a pass.
Defend: one pressures, one covers the goal.
Quick changes, full speed.

Easier

Bigger goals (3 sticks wide). Coach plays as a passer for whoever has the puck. 30-second shifts.

Harder

Must pass before scoring. Goals only count with a pass through the cones to a teammate. Add a 3v2 power play.

3v3 Mini Nets

Small-area gamePassing under pressure12 minTeams of 3, 45-second shifts

Setup. Two small nets facing each other, one near the blue line and one at the top of the circles. Teams of three. No goalies.

How it runs

Coach puts a puck in. Play 3v3, each team attacks one mini net.
Players may go behind the nets. Pucks out of the zone get replaced by the coach.
45-second shifts, then the next teams go on.

Coaching points

Use all the ice, spread out.
Pass to the open player, then move.
Defend the area in front of your net.
Shoot quickly, the nets are small.

Easier

Bigger nets or cone goals. Every player must touch the puck before a goal counts. 3v2 for the weaker group.

Harder

Two-touch limit. Goals only after a pass from behind the net. Coach adds a second puck at any time.

3v3 Plus One

PossessionSupport10 minTwo teams of 3 plus a joker

Setup. Cone box from the top of the circles to near the blue line. Two teams of three inside. One joker player in a different color always plays for the team with the puck.

How it runs

The team with the puck keeps it with passes, using the joker. The other team tries to win it.
Five passes in a row scores a point. A steal switches the roles.
Play 60 seconds, rest, rotate the joker.

Coaching points

Move to open ice after you pass.
Make a triangle with your teammates.
Call for the puck, show your stick.
Defenders: close lanes, don't all chase the puck.

Easier

Two jokers. Three passes scores a point. Stick checks only.

Harder

No joker, plain 3v3. Two-touch limit. Point only counts if the fifth pass goes to a player who is moving.

Gates Game 2v2

Passing under pressureGetting open10 minTeams of 2, 45-second shifts

Setup. Five cone gates spread around the zone, each about 7 ft wide. Teams of two. No goalie needed.

How it runs

Play 2v2. Score a point by passing through any gate to your partner.
You cannot score through the same gate twice in a row.
Defenders try to steal and then attack. 45-second shifts.

Coaching points

Partner: get to the far side of an open gate.
Pass when the defender is not in the lane.
Talk: call the gate you are going to.
Defenders: guard the gate nearest the puck.

Easier

Bigger gates. Carrying through a gate also counts. Play 2v1.

Harder

Smaller gates. One-touch passes only after the gate pass. 3v3 with only three gates.

2v1 Down Low

Odd-man playDefending10 min2 F lines, 1 D line

Setup. Two forward lines at the blue line, one per side. Defence line in the middle. One defender starts in front of the net. Coach on the top boards with pucks. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Coach passes to forward 1. Both forwards attack the net.
The defender stays between the two forwards and takes away the pass. The goalie takes the shooter.
Play until a goal, save or clear. Next three go.

Coaching points

Puck carrier: go to the net, make D commit.
Second forward: stick on the ice, ready for a one-timer.
D: stay in the middle, stick in the passing lane.
Shoot if D takes the pass away.

Easier

Defender stands still with stick on ice. Forwards may stop and set up. Coach gives a slow pass.

Harder

The defender starts at the blue line and must skate back. The forwards get 5 seconds. Add a back-checker for a 2v2.

Puck Pile Race

SpeedPuck controlCompete8 min2 teams, relay

Setup. Pile of pucks in the middle of the zone. Each team has a small cone square on its own boards. Teams line up next to their square.

How it runs

First player from each team races to the pile, takes one puck and carries it into their square.
Tag the next player, who goes. When the pile is empty, you may steal from the other square.
After 90 seconds, the team with the most pucks wins.

Coaching points

Head up on the way back, other players are coming.
Carry under control into the square, no shooting.
Protect the puck on the way home.
Hustle, but no pushing.

Easier

Push the puck with the stick, no stickhandling needed. Bigger squares. No stealing round.

Harder

Backhand carries only. Two players go at once and can defend their square. Stealers must carry back through a cone gate.

Team play & fun games

2v2 Tag-Up Game

Game playTransition10 min2v2, 45-second shifts

Setup. Two cones on the blue line make a tag-up gate. Coach at the top with pucks. Teams of two wait at the blue line. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Coach passes to one team. Play 2v2 in the zone.
When the defending team wins the puck, they must carry it out past the cones before they can attack.
45-second shifts. Coach puts a new puck in after every goal or save.

Coaching points

Talk to your partner: one pressures, one covers.
Shoot quickly, rebounds win games.
Win the puck, then get your head up.
Change fast and hustle off the ice.

Easier

2v1, or the coach plays as a passer for both teams. Shorter 30-second shifts so nobody gets exhausted.

Harder

3v3. Two passes before a shot is allowed. Goals off a rebound count double.

2v1 Blue Line Rush

Odd-man attackDecisions10 min3 lines: 2 attack, 1 defends

Setup. Two attack lines at the blue line, one per side, with pucks. One defender line in the middle. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Player 1 carries the puck in, player 2 drives the far lane. The defender skates backward.
Read the defender: if he takes the puck carrier, pass. If he takes the pass, shoot.
Play to a goal or save. Attackers become the next defender.

Coaching points

Puck carrier attacks the defender's outside shoulder.
Partner keeps the stick on the ice, ready for a pass.
Defender stays in the middle and takes away the pass.
Make your choice before the top of the circle.

Easier

Defender only skates backward and holds the stick flat, no checking. Attackers start closer to the net. Coach calls pass or shoot.

Harder

Defender starts beside the attackers and must chase. Only 5 seconds to score. Add a back-checker for a 2v2.

3v2 Blue Line Attack

Odd-man attackSupport12 minGroups of 5

Setup. Three attackers at the blue line: left, centre, right. Two defenders at the top of the circles. Coach with pucks at the boards. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Coach passes to the centre. Wingers drive wide toward the net.
Centre carries to the middle and moves the puck to the open winger.
Play until a goal or the defence clears the puck past the blue line.

Coaching points

Make a triangle: two wide, one in the middle and high.
Wingers stop at the net for rebounds.
Defenders talk: one takes the puck, one covers.
Shoot early, the trailer gets rebounds.

Easier

Make it 3v1 with one defender. Defenders may only use sticks. Coach gives the puck to the strongest skater first.

Harder

Coach can pass to any attacker. Add a back-checker from the blue line after 3 seconds. Goals after a cross-ice pass count double.

Corner Cycle 2v1

CyclingPuck protection10 minLines of 2 + defender

Setup. Pairs line up at the blue line on one side. One defender waits in the slot. Pucks at the boards. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Player 1 carries deep along the boards to the corner.
Player 1 leaves the puck on the boards for player 2 and cuts to the net.
Player 2 picks it up, walks out of the corner and shoots or passes to the net.

Coaching points

Protect the puck with your body to the boards.
Bank the puck off the boards, not into the defender.
Cut hard to the net after you give it.
Keep moving: a cycle is a circle, not a line.

Easier

No defender (2v0). Walk through it slowly first. Pass to a stopped player instead of off the boards.

Harder

Two full cycles before a shot. Defender plays live. Add a second defender for a 2v2 in the corner.

D-Zone Shift Drill

Defensive positioningCommunication8 min3 attackers, 3 defenders

Setup. Three attackers stand in the corner, on the half-wall and at the point. Three defenders start in their spots. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Attackers pass the puck slowly around: corner, wall, point and back.
Every time the puck moves, defenders shift: one on the puck, one at the net, one in the middle.
After 1 minute, add shots. Then swap attackers and defenders.

Coaching points

Stay between your player and the net.
Stick in the passing lane.
Talk: say 'I got puck' and 'I got net'.
Eyes on the puck and the player, head moving.

Easier

Attackers hold the puck for 3 seconds before passing. Coach points where each defender should go. No shots.

Harder

Play it live: attackers can skate and shoot. Add a fourth attacker at the other point. Count clean shifts in a row.

Walk the Line

DefencePoint shot8 minDefence + 1 net-front player

Setup. Defence line on each side at the blue line. Coach in a corner with pucks. One forward near the net. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Coach passes up the boards to the defender at the point.
Defender walks the line toward the middle with the puck, looking at the net.
Shoot low through the screen. The forward sets the screen and looks for the rebound. Other side goes next.

Coaching points

Stay on the line, do not drift into the zone.
Head up: see the net before you shoot.
Shoot low and hard, wrist shots are fine.
Forward: stand still, stick on the ice.

Easier

Stand still and shoot after the pass. Coach makes a short, slow pass. Forward does not screen yet.

Harder

Fake a shot, walk past a cone, then shoot. Add a defender who blocks the lane. Forward must tip the puck.

Net-Front Tip & Screen

Net-front playTipping8 min2 point lines + net-front

Setup. Two shooters at the points with pucks. One forward stands just outside the crease. An optional defender boxes out. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Shooters take turns shooting low and slow at the net-front player's stick.
The forward tips the puck or screens the goalie, then plays the rebound.
Change the net-front player every 5 shots.

Coaching points

Stand outside the blue paint, facing the shooter.
Stick blade flat on the ice, both hands.
Angle the blade to steer the puck down.
Shooters: hit the stick, not the goalie.

Easier

Coach passes from close instead of shooting. Tip with the forehand only. No defender.

Harder

Live defender boxes out. Shooters move side to side first. Tip high and low on the coach's call.

Low-High Triangle

Offensive positioningPuck movement8 minGroups of 4

Setup. Groups of four: one low in the corner, one on the half-wall, one defender at the point, one in the slot. Pucks in the corner. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Corner player passes up to the half-wall, then goes to the net.
Half-wall passes to the point. Point passes to the slot player.
Slot player shoots. Rotate one spot each rep.

Coaching points

Keep a triangle: low, high and middle.
Move to open ice, do not stand behind a defender.
Hard, flat passes on the tape.
Corner player: pass then go straight to the net.

Easier

Stop each pass before the next one. Shorter passes. Point player shoots instead of passing to the slot.

Harder

Add two defenders. One-touch passes. Slot player can call for the puck anywhere in the triangle.

First Pass Out

BreakoutFirst pass10 minD, winger, centre

Setup. Defender at the net, winger on the boards at the hash marks, centre low in the slot. Pucks in the corner. Two cones make an exit gate.

How it runs

On the whistle the defender gets a puck in the corner and passes up the boards to the winger.
The centre swings through the middle. The winger passes to the centre.
The centre carries out through the gate. Switch sides each round.

Coaching points

Defender: shoulder check before you get the puck.
Winger: back to the boards, stick on the ice.
Centre: come low and skate with speed.
Short, hard passes. Talk to each other.

Easier

Puck sits still in the corner. Players stop the puck before each pass. Walk through it once without a puck.

Harder

Coach rims the puck in from the blue line. Add a forechecker who chases the defender. Winger must one-touch it to the centre. Race the clock.

Back-Door Pass

Offensive positioningPassing8 min2 lines + defender

Setup. Two lines at the blue line, one per side. Puck carrier on one side. Defender in the high slot. Goalie in net.

How it runs

Player 1 carries down the side and toward the net to pull the defender over.
Player 2 sneaks behind the defender to the far post.
Player 1 passes across to the back door. Player 2 taps it in.

Coaching points

Back-door player: stay quiet and behind the defender.
Stick on the ice at the far post.
Pass flat and firm across the crease.
If the defender takes the pass, shoot.

Easier

No defender. Player 2 starts at the far post. Coach gives the cross pass.

Harder

Live defender. Player 1 can shoot or pass. Back-door player must one-time it.

Musical Pucks

Quick startsPuck controlFun6 minWhole team

Setup. Spread pucks in the middle of the zone, one less puck than players. Players skate a big loop around the pucks.

How it runs

Players skate the loop until the coach blows the whistle.
On the whistle, grab a puck and do 5 stickhandles in place.
The player without a puck does a fun skill, like a knee drop, then the next round starts.

Coaching points

Quick first steps to the puck.
Stop on the puck, do not crash into others.
Keep your head up and look for a free puck.
Puck in front, soft hands once you have it.

Easier

Same number of pucks as players so nobody misses. Skate slowly. Coach points each player to a puck.

Harder

Two fewer pucks. Skate the loop backward. After the grab, carry the puck around a cone and back before the next whistle.

Coach Says

PuckhandlingListeningFun6 minWhole team

Setup. Players spread out in rows facing the coach, each with a puck and plenty of space. Coach stands near the blue line.

How it runs

Coach calls a skill starting with 'coach says', like 'coach says toe drag'. Everyone does it.
If the coach calls a skill without 'coach says', anyone who moves does 3 quick stickhandles and stays in.
Change the skills every round: stops, spins, knee drops, backhands, glides.

Coaching points

Listen first, then move.
Head up, eyes on the coach, not the puck.
Small, quick hands on the puck.
Do every skill the right way, not the fast way.

Easier

Simple skills only: stop, glide, two-foot jump, tap the puck. No puck at the start. Coach shows the skill first.

Harder

Chain two skills in one call. Skills on the move toward the coach. Add backward skating and one-foot glides with the puck.

Puck Relay Race

Puck controlSpeedFun8 min3 teams

Setup. Three teams in lanes at the blue line. Two cones per lane. One puck per team. Keep the far cones away from the crease.

How it runs

On the whistle, the first player carries the puck around the far cone and back.
Leave the puck on the stick of the next player. They go.
First team to finish wins. Change the skill every race.

Coaching points

Puck in front, two hands on the stick.
Tight turn around the cone, lean in.
Soft hand-off, do not shoot it at your teammate.
Cheer for your team!

Easier

Skate without a puck first. Go around the near cone only. Mix strong and weak players on every team.

Harder

Weave both cones each way. Backward skating on the way back. Finish with a pass to the next player from the near cone.

Puck Tag

PuckhandlingHead upFun6 minWhole team, 2 taggers

Setup. Everyone has a puck inside the zone. Two taggers wear a different jersey colour. Cones mark the corners of the playing area.

How it runs

Players skate around the zone with their puck while the taggers chase.
A tagged player, or anyone who loses the puck, does 5 toe-taps and becomes a tagger.
Play 60 seconds, then pick new taggers.

Coaching points

Head up, see the taggers.
Keep the puck close when you turn.
Use open ice, don't get stuck on the boards.
Taggers: cut off the space, don't just chase.

Easier

Taggers have no puck and skate slowly. Tagged players do one lap of a circle and are back in. Smaller area.

Harder

Taggers must also carry a puck. Tag by poke-checking the puck away. Make the playing area smaller.

Pirate Treasure

Puck controlHustleFun8 min4 teams

Setup. Pile all the pucks in the middle of the zone. Four teams, each with a home box of cones near a corner.

How it runs

On the whistle, one player from each team skates to the pile, takes one puck and carries it home.
Next player goes. When the pile is empty, you may steal pucks from other homes.
After 90 seconds, the team with the most pucks wins.

Coaching points

Carry the puck, don't shoot it home.
Head up so you don't bump into others.
Fast feet, quick stops at the pile.
One puck at a time, no defending your home.

Easier

Pucks only from the middle, no stealing. Players may push the puck with one hand. Walk-skate is fine.

Harder

Carry on the backhand only. Pucks must go in with a pass into the home box. Players skate backward home.

100

Gate Scrimmage 3v3

Game playHead upFun12 min3v3, 1-minute shifts

Setup. Play across the zone. Two cone gates on the top boards, two on the bottom boards. No goalie, no net. Coach with spare pucks.

How it runs

Blue scores by carrying the puck through a gate at the top. Red scores at the bottom.
You must skate through the gate with the puck on your stick.
One-minute shifts. Coach puts a new puck in after every goal.

Coaching points

Look for the open gate, switch sides if one is blocked.
Pass to a teammate who is in open ice.
Everyone back on defence when you lose the puck.
Keep your head up in traffic.

Easier

2v2 on a smaller area, or 3v2 with the weaker team getting the extra player. Coach can be a passer for both teams.

Harder

A goal only counts after 3 passes. Add a third gate in the middle. Only backhand passes for 30 seconds.

Diagram key

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