Build Up Small Area Game

Title: Build Up Small Area Game Category: Small Area Games Age Tags: U11, U13, U15, U18+ Skill Tags: Small Area Games, Puck Support, Passing, Decision Making, Game Awareness Purpose: Develop puck support and decision making in a small area game while encouraging players to activate teammates and create numerical advantages. Setup: Divide players into two teams. Two players from each team start in the zone. Remaining players line up along the boards outside the zone. Coach has pucks to spot play. Drill Steps: • Coach spots a puck into the zone to start a 2 vs 2 game. • Players compete for puck possession. • Team in possession can pass to their teammate in line to activate them. • Activated player enters the zone and joins the play. • Teams continue activating players by passing to their line. • Play continues until coach spots a new puck. Coaching Points: • Move to support the puck carrier. • Keep head up and look for outlet options. • Make firm, accurate passes. • Communicate with teammates. • Create space to allow activation passes. Variations: • Add goalies and allow scoring. • Limit number of passes before activation. • Require one-touch activation passes. • Play continuous with quick puck restarts. Time: 8–15 minutes