The ADM model set forth by USA hockey and their endorsement for small area games has made this term much more popular among youth hockey coaches, especially here in the United States. There are a wealth of games that are great fun and great for development and I think it is important to choose games that are relevant to your purpose. The small area games listed below focus on tight spaces. The players can expect to have a lot of touches, but the touches are quick and demand quick decisions and reactions.
Run Ragged
This game requires quick puck movement, stops and starts, and moving without the puck. There are three offensive players and one defensive player. the offensive players are stationed at three of the four cones to start the drill. After a player makes a pass they have to move to the open cone and a maximum of one stickhandle is allowed when a player receives a pass. The offensive players have to make 5 consecutive passes before they can shoot on net. The defensive player has to stop and start and use an active stick to break up a pass. If the defensive player creates a turnover then the last offensive player that touched the puck has to become the defender.
Watch the animation below to view the game. Click here to view the full Run Ragged details & coaching points.
Corner Drill 3 vs. 3
The Corner 3 vs. 3 is a quick thinking game that helps players develop a scoring mentality. The players and goalies will love this small area game. Watch Topher Scott explain this game below:
Description: The Corner 3 vs. 3 Game is set up to help players develop a scoring mentality with quick thinking and shooting. The game has one major constraint: each team is allowed one player that can play inside of the circle. The other teammates must play on the outside of the circle. Communication, quick passing and quick shots will help teams be successful in this game. View full Game Details: Corner 3 vs. 3 Game
2 versus 2 in the corner
This drill is all about puck protection and using the body to protect the puck or tak it away. The diagram shows the nets placed about 15 feet out from the corner and facing the corner. The coach should be off to the side and behind the net ready to put more pucks in play in case they leave the playing area (don't stand right behind the net). The coach will out a puck into play and the players go two vs two and try to score. The rules are simple, the player that scores earns a point for their team. There are no requirements for minimum passes, players can score at any time. Once a goal is scored or the puck leaves the playing area, the coach puts another puck into play right away. Run the drill for about 30 seconds and then switch out the players. The players should be learning how to use their body to gain advantages in loose puck situations and protecting it when they have possession.
