This drill teaches players to protect the top of the circle and to force the attacking team to go wide. Attacking team (Red) start from over the 25 yard line and can pass either left or right. 4 defenders (blue) start just outside the top of the circle. Once the ball is played out to one of the attackers, the defenders must collapse into the circle and stop the attacking team from passing through the yellow cones.
You could add in more attackers and defenders to make it more like a real game. You could also narrow the space between the cones to make it harder for the attacking team
This practice has no coaching points
This practice has no progressions
in more ways than one
sportplan_hockey
The best hockey players in the world do not just react faster; they scan more frequently and process information before the ball arrives. This article explores the science behind scanning, how to coach spatial awareness as a habit, and practical drills that force players to lift their heads and read the game.
In hockey, you can only score from inside the circle. Getting the ball into the D with purpose and creating genuine shooting chances is the hardest part of attack. This article examines the different types of circle entry, why entry angle determines shot quality, and how to train your team to penetrate the most congested area on the pitch.
The best teams don't just press - they press at the right moment. Here's how to train your players to read the cues.
