29Aug 2011 by Jeremy Weiss 5 Comments

D-Zone Coverage: “Sagging” Zone

Defensive Zone, Team Systems
The "Sagging" Zone is a more aggressive defensive zone coverage set-up that will cause more turnovers than the less aggressive Box +1 In this video, we walk through the "Sagging" Zone set-up. I really like the risk level of this particular set-up. It is quite aggressive, but by dropping your weak-side winger down into the low slot, you can still maintain great coverage in front of the net. As players get more comfortable with this system, teach the weak-side winger to anticipate and pick off D to D passes, and cross-ice passes out of the corner. Good, quick wingers will see a lot of breakaways and 2 on 1's by reading these passes well. As is the case with the Box +1, "Sagging" Zone Coverage converts very well into a…
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29Aug 2011 by Jeremy Weiss 10 Comments

D-Zone Coverage: Box +1

Defensive Zone, Team Systems
Box +1 is an excellent introductory defensive zone coverage set-up I have used the Box +1 as an introductory defensive zone coverage set-up for a number of teams ranging from talented youngsters to beginner adults. The Box +1 is a great way to introduce structured defensive zone positioning, without a lot of risk. It is a passive system, which means it's very forgiving if a player makes a mistake (since you always have 4 players in front of the net!). The Box +1 also lends itself to progress into more complex coverages such as "Sagging" Zone Coverage, and the "Sagging" Zone Arrow. Furthermore, the transition from d-zone coverage to breakout is simple and straight-forward with this style of coverage. Enjoy!
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