Reply To: Favorite Small Area Games

[Tom Molloy]

Rookie Coach and Kai,

I like to focus on a game playing role. If I want to practice role 2 puck support or role 4 covering away from the puck I use jokers or various passing rules like on 2 touches or 2" with the puck. To practice role 1 rules that limit passes or require the puck carrier to do specific moves or to gain a zone work well. Role 3 games include things like an angling game or games with the sticks upside down for a certain amount of time.

I like to introduce transition games with passive support so the players get the idea of flowing in and out of the game. In odd man situations one player can be active and one passive. i.e. a 2-1 and the defending team F1 actively supports the D low and F2 is passive waiting for the pass or to join F1 on the 2-1 the other way.

I agree sending a stretch man can be effective. I often practice a power play starting 5-5 and one forward from the defending team stays in the nzone so there is a 5-4 at each end. He can go for a stretch pass.

There are so many possible variations and you can invent options; depending on what you are trying to practice.

'The Game is the Greatest Coach'
'Enjoy the Game'