Some simple Backchecking tips to improve effectiveness
Believe it or not, there is actually some technique to backchecking in hockey. Most players just put their head down and get back into the defensive zone as quickly as possible… this is a good start, but players need to do more if they want to REALLY stop the scoring threat. Here are a few key points from the video:
1. Backcheck with a purpose: Keep your head on a swivel while backchecking, and pick up any loose opponents along the way. Make sure you stick with them ALL THE WAY back into the zone (many players release their man at the blueline for some reason).
2. Revert to “5-Card” Formation: I explain this in the video, but use the “5-Card” set-up as your failsafe. Backcheck into 5-card formation, then adjust once the initial threat has been nullified.
3. Communicate: Let your teammates know who you’ve got (especially your defensemen). This can help eliminate confusion on odd-man rushes.
The 2-1-2 forecheck is generally one of the first set-ups young players learn. It is simple to understand, and can be taught at very young age groups. In this video we outline two possible variations of the 2-1-2 that you can choose from based on the other team’s strengths and weaknesses.
The 2-1-2 Stack puts extreme pressure on the puck-carrying defenseman, and makes it virtually impossible to break out up the strong side of the ice. The Spread is used to combat the D to D pass behind the net. In either set-up, our F3 and our two Defensemen need to anticipate and get to the proper position quickly!
The Michigan Tech 1 on 1 Drill is fantastic for working gap control, passing, agility skating, and many other skills!
This is one of my favorite 1 on 1 drills because you can use it to work on so many different skills. Make sure your forwards swing fairly deep into the zone to receive the breakout pass. This will allow the opposing defenseman time to close the gap properly and play the 1 on 1 the way he or she should in a game.
Also, make sure your defensemen get outside the blue line… that gap MUST be closed, and the defensemen need to be able to get their speed up quickly after the pivot.
Enjoy!
CLICK HERE for a PDF of the Michigan Tech 1 on 1 Drill
Use this Hockey Warm-up Drill to get everyone moving at the beginning of your practice!
This is a great little high-speed hockey warm-up drill that incorporates many different elements of the game, including skating, passing, and shooting. I typically have my defensemen acting as the passers, since that neutral zone “d-to-d” pass is something they will need to perform over and over in games.
Make sure to push those defensemen to make quick, hard, stick-to-stick passes to each other, and then fire that cross-ice pass hard and accurately.
A very versatile drill to work on Breakouts, Regroups, and Attacks
Since finishing up our Coaches’ Training Course, a few people have asked about different ways of practicing some of the systems we discussed in the course. This drill is in response to the questions about practicing breakouts and regroups.
The “Breakout, Regroup, Regroup, Attack Drill” is extremely versatile, and can be used to work on a number of different game situations. After your team gets good at it, try throwing in a forechecker (or two). You can designate where and how you want the forechecking pressure coming in, which will make your defensemen have to read and react to different scenarios.
For a more detailed explanation of the Swing Regroup mentioned in this video, CLICK HERE
Enjoy!
CLICK HERE for a PDF of the Breakout, Regroup, Regroup, Attack Drill
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