01Sep 2011 by Jeremy Weiss 3 Comments

Offensive Attack: Formations

Offensive Zone, Team Systems
Let players be creative within a structured offensive framework I've mentioned a number of times that I like to give players set positions and responsibilities in the defensive zone. This helps keep players accountable when breakdowns occur (it's easier to pinpoint the problem and say "why wasn't the "sagman" in the low slot?" for example). However, as the play progresses into the offensive zone, I like to encourage players to be creative within a structured framework. I like to attack using the "Attack Triangle," which is based on solid front-side and back-side support. There are many different attack options that can be executed within this framework. So... teach your players to attack using the triangle, and make sure they understand proper support tactics, then let them do their thing!! CLICK…
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01Sep 2011 by Jeremy Weiss No Comments

Offensive Attack: Options within the Attack Triangle

Offensive Zone, Team Systems
A few different attack options stemming from the attack triangle I love the attack triangle because it can be branched off into so many different attack possibilities. I usually like to outline 8-10 of these possibilities for my players, just to get their minds moving in the right direction... then I let them get creative on their own, always encouraging more and more creativity in the offensive zone. Having a solid understanding of support tactics will allow your players to "improvise" effectively within the offensive framework you have given them. CLICK HERE to check out our "Attack Triangle Sequence" drill. Enjoy!
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31Aug 2011 by Jeremy Weiss 2 Comments

Breakouts: Open up Passing Options by Crossing Through Lanes

Coaches' Corner, Defensive Zone, Neutral Zone, Offensive Zone, Philosophy, Team Systems
Open up Passing Options by Crossing Through Lanes When I was a kid, my first coach (NOT MY DAD) took me a side one day, and drew two lines down the middle of a rink diagram. He then taught me that "the right winger stays on the right side, the left winger stays on the left side, and that the centerman mostly stays in the middle, but can help out if a winger needs him..." HOW FAR THE GAME HAS COME SINCE THEN!!! Today's hockey is much more dynamic, with players interchanging positions constantly––especially in the offensive zone. I like this more "European" style of play, and I think it is much more effective at opening up passing options and scoring chances. My general philosophy is to let structured, positional…
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29Mar 2011 by Jeremy Weiss 4 Comments
3 Man Weave

3 Man Weave

Hockey Drills, Individual Skill Drills, Offensive Zone, Passing & Timing, Team Skill Drills
The 3 Man Weave is a Simple, but Highly Effective Hockey Passing Drill! Use the 3 Man Weave to teach and reinforce key concepts like timing, support, and offensive zone triangulation. As skill progresses, increase the demand on the players. I like to insist that all my lines are able to get in three stick-to-stick passes before the far blue line, then a controlled attack on net. Here's the diagram: 3 Man Weave 1. On whistle, center passes to one of the two wingers, who is cutting through the middle for a pass. 2. After making the pass, the passer loops in behind the receiver, providing back-side support, then explodes up ice to become the front side option for the 3rd player. 3. Receiver picks up the pass, then head…
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11Nov 2010 by Jeremy Weiss No Comments
Timed Delay Drill

Timed Delay Drill

Hockey Drills, Individual Skill Drills, Offensive Zone, Passing & Timing, Team Skill Drills
Use the Timed Delay Drill to introduce basic passing and timing concepts, as well as offensive attack and delay tactics Passing and timing are extremely important concepts for hockey players to understand. This is a drill you can use to introduce these ideas at a young age. As is the case with many drills, you can progress this through from simple to more complex versions as your players progress. The first part of this drill develops basic passing and timing skills, the second part can be progressed to work on attacking the offensive zone in "waves," meaning if the first attack option is shut down, a player can "delay" by misdirecting, then wait for his trailer man to come in late. Here's the diagram: Timed Delay Drill: 1. First player…
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