SHOUT and Over-Communicate
Shout, Shout, SHOUT! The louder the better. Talking is NOT enough.
Command your teammates. Demand the puck.
Create a list of easily recognizable commands that all players on your team will recognize.
Always Scanning The Ice
You should always know what your options are BEFORE you get the puck. This is much more than just an occasional shoulder check. Practicing scanning should be part of almost every drill.
Establish Position Before Possession
You should work hard to establish position as soon as possible BEFORE you get the puck. Usually this means getting your body between the puck and a defender. It may mean getting into their hands or getting your stick free.
Willingness To Sprint When You Don’t Have The Puck
- Joining the play on a line change
- Leaving the ice on a line change
- D joining the rush to become F4
- Tracking / Back-checking
- Becoming available to get a pass
- Making yourself the BEST option for the next play. Can your teammate see and hear you?
Carrying The Puck In Your Hip Pocket
We want to be able to pass or shoot the puck immediately at any time. Avoid over handling the puck or the habit of dusting it off as much as possible.
Create Speed Differentials
You need to find ways to be either faster or slower than the other team.
Get Off The Wall
When you get the puck, you need to get off the wall.
Attack The Net
Don’t turn down any chance to attack the net. Particularly, when we turn over the puck before the other team can get into a set defence.