Zones 1v1

PURPOSE

**This is a variation of the Zone Defense Passing Game**

The main purpose of this is creating and containing space and self-less play to create a scoring chance. Players will need to figure out how to move and get open in their zone to become an option for their teammate.

SKILLS

• Passing and using space to create opportunities
• Defending net front presence
• Transitioning from offense to defense and back

HOW TO

• Set up the nets like a normal cross ice game. Divide the zone into 3 smaller zones – between the circles and each end – then divide the team in half. This mimics the 3 zones of play on ice.
• Each team will put 3 players in the zone with one in each of the smaller zones – they must stay in their zone. Designate which way each team shoots.
• Coach will shoot a puck into one of the zones. The players must play a 1v1 in their zone to gain possession and try to score by working it to the player in the offensive zone.
• Players in any zone can shoot on their designated net – yes, even from the D zone – but they cannot move into another zone to shoot and they cannot carry or stick handle the puck into that other zone. Players can also pass the puck back into a different zone to create time and space as long as they do not skate into, carry or stick handle the puck into that other zone.

FOCUS

• Creative play! Players need to work on getting open and moving the puck quickly to gain possession within the given time and space.
• Passing and quick shots. Players who take their time and want to do too much on their own to be the hero will not succeed.

VARIATIONS

• Change the position of the nets – back to back, in each corner or on goal lines, or even change the distance.
• Add extra players in end zones so it becomes a 2v1 or 2v2 in the ends and 1v1 in the middle.
• Add passing requirements.