Objective
To develop players' ability to make skilled plays in tight, confrontational areas near the boards. This small game focuses on puck protection, wall play, scanning, and quick decision-making under physical pressure.
Setup
- Place a net diagonally in the corner of the rink, with its opening facing the center of the ice.
- Paint a line approximately 1.5 feet from the wall to serve as the "tag-up line." (or use the goal-line)
- Players are split into two teams (blue and red) with extras lined up outside the playing area.
- The coach is positioned nearby with a supply of pucks.
Execution
- The coach throws a puck into the corner to start the game.
- Players race for first touch, with the winning team starting on offense in a 2-on-2 battle.
- Offensive players work to protect the puck using body positioning and puck protection techniques and then make a play off the wall.
- Each new possession starts with a tag-up:
- The team that gains possession must move the puck back behind the tag-up line and restart play from the wall.
- Players focus on making quick, skilled plays off the wall, such as:
- Scanning and shoulder-checking for teammates.
- Making passes under pressure.
- Using give-and-go plays to create offensive opportunities.
- If a puck is shot wide or goes out of play, the coach immediately throws a new puck into the corner to continue the drill.
- Each shift lasts approximately 30 seconds, with players experiencing 6–7 wall battles per shift.
Coaching Points
- Wall Play: Use your body to shield the puck and maintain strong positioning.
- Quick Decisions: Scan for your teammate and make a play quickly under pressure.
- Defensive Focus: Pressure the puck carrier and anticipate their next move.
