Across The Ice Pass Power Play Drill

Purpose:

This drill is designed to enhance players’ ability to execute quick, accurate shots during a power play situation in hockey. It focuses on developing sharp passing skills, quick movement, and precise shooting under pressure. The drill simulates game-like conditions, helping players to improve their coordination and timing, essential for successful power play execution in actual games.

Setup:

Position two defensemen spaced evenly along the blue line, each facing the center of the ice. One forward starts in the corner of the rink with the puck. This setup replicates a typical offensive formation during a power play, where defensemen are crucial in controlling the puck at the top and forwards are ready to create scoring opportunities.

How It Works:

The drill begins with Forward 1 in possession of the puck in the corner. Forward 1 initiates the play by passing the puck to Defenseman 1.
Upon receiving the puck, Defenseman 1 quickly redirects it across to Defenseman 2, maintaining the pace and flow of the drill.
Meanwhile, Forward 1 skates from the corner towards the top of the face-off circle, following an arc-shaped path. This movement should be timed to meet the pass received from Defenseman 2.
As Forward 1 reaches the top of the circle, Defenseman 2 delivers a crisp pass to Forward 1.
Forward 1 then completes the drill by taking a quick shot on goal, aiming to catch the goaltender off-guard.
The drill is repeated for a duration of 4-6 minutes, ensuring ample practice time.
It’s important to alternate the drill to both sides of the ice, allowing players to experience and practice going in both directions, enhancing their adaptability and skill on both wings.

Coaching Tips for Younger Athletes:

Stress the importance of accurate passing. Encourage young players to focus on hitting their teammate’s stick with the puck for a seamless transfer.
Teach them about positioning and movement without the puck. They should understand how to position themselves to be in the best spot to receive a pass.
Emphasize the follow-through on shots. Young players often need reminders to aim and complete their shooting motion towards the goal.

Coaching Tips for Older Athletes:

Encourage quick, decisive passing. Older players should aim for rapid, precise passes to simulate real-game pressure and speed.
Stress the importance of split-second decision-making. Prompt players to quickly analyze the situation and make immediate decisions whether to pass, shoot, or skate.
Practice various shooting techniques. Older players should work on perfecting different shot types, like wrist shots and slap shots, adjusting their technique based on the situation during the drill.