I’ve always been a fan of the “T” PK Forecheck. If done correctly, it is very effective at stopping the other team’s breakout, and causes a lot of turnovers in the neutral zone.
Over the years, I’ve developed a slightly “beefed up” version of the “T” Forecheck, that is more aggressive, and just as safe (if not, safer!). In this video, I show you both versions. As you’ll see in the video, the second version can actually cause a lot of offensive-zone turnovers and odd-man rushes… ON YOUR PK!!
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.
Here’s another great Small Area Game Drill to work 3 on 2′s and quick transitions
This can be a fantastic drill, depending on the skill level of your players. At best it’s a quick-paced, high-intensity, odd-man-rush drill. At worst it can be quite slow, with too much standing around… So, as I’ve often said, USE YOUR “INFINITE WISDOM” AS COACH to determine whether this drill will be a good fit for your team
Enjoy!!
Weiss
CLICK HERE for a PDF of the On the Dot 3 on 2 Drill
What’s up guys!! I got an interesting email the other day from Mika from Australia. Because of the size of his local rink, and the limited number of players there, they play 3 on 3 (which sounds like a blast to me!). Anyways, he asked if I had any drills that focused on 3-man set-ups and game situations… this drill immediately came to mind!
It’s a great drill for imitating odd-man rush scenarios, and is also GREAT conditioning for the forwards… Enjoy!
Hockey Small Area Games Drills can be a great way to add competition and intensity to your practices
Try using hockey small area games drills to simulate various game situations your players will encounter. This one helps to reenforce shooting and crashing the net for rebounds, as well as odd man play and battles. As always, click here for the printout.
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