Before we get going…. I’m excited to see about 50 subscribers (~9% of total attendees) in person at the USA Hockey Level 5 symposium in about a month’s time. If that is you… reply to this email and let’s connect.
Traditionally, coaches wait to use small-sided games at the end of practice. I must ask the simple question: why not start with a small-sided game?
Heck, why not break them out all the time?
Struggling to execute?… Break out a small-sided game.
Lack of energy?… Break out a small-sided game.
When you are personally struggling, how do you best get back on track? Punish yourself? Or, find ways to bring joy back into your life?
Competing and playing games are fun! They’re a great way to regain the energy and focus you need to be your best self. The same goes for your hockey team.
Small-Sided Games
What are some examples you can use?
Fortunately, I have some recent footage of a few small-sided games from our program’s summer development camp, for incoming grades 7-9, ranging from AA to house players.
Example 1 - 4v2 Rondo... Invisible line down the middle of the ice, splitting the zone in two. On your side, you can have 4 players while only 2 can go win the puck back on the opposite side.
Example 2 - 3v3 Elevator… Invisible line across the top of the circles. Must have 1 player above the top of the circles and must activate that player to go onto the attack.
Example 3 - 2v2 Cross-ice Angling… puck is spotted to one team that must carry the puck behind the net. The opposing team cannot skate backward and thus angles the team in possession.
Example 4 - 2v2 D Activation… 2v2 in the middle with the option (not requirement) to pass back to their team behind the net. If the players make a D-to-D pass, the player who made the original pass jumps into the play to create a 3v2. Once the opponent touches the puck, the added player goes back behind the net.
Next time you are frustrated with your ice hockey team (over whatever avenues in life you find yourself), inject joy back into the situation. Cheers!
Further Reading