1 2 2 Forecheck Hockey Drills
If you're a hockey coach, you know that the 1 2 2 forecheck is one of the most popular and effective tactics for creating turnovers and generating offensive opportunities. But like any strategy, it requires practice and precision to execute correctly. In this guide, we'll break down the basics of the 1 2 2 forecheck, and provide a selection of drills designed to help your team master this essential component of the game.
What is the 1 2 2 Forecheck?
The 1 2 2 forecheck is a defensive strategy that involves pressuring the opposing team's defense and creating turnovers in the neutral or defensive zone. This is accomplished by sending one forward deep into the offensive zone to pressure the puck-carrier, while two other forwards and two defensemen stay in formation just inside the blue line, ready to intercept passes or pounce on loose pucks.
When executed properly, the 1 2 2 forecheck forces the opposing team into mistakes, often leading to turnovers and scoring opportunities for your team.
Drills for the 1 2 2 Forecheck
Now that you understand the basics of the 1 2 2 forecheck, let's take a look at some drills that will help your team master this strategy.
1. Neutral Zone Regroup
This drill is designed to help your team practice the transition from defense to offense while executing the 1 2 2 forecheck.
Start with three forwards at the opposite end of the ice, and two defensemen and a goalie in the defensive zone. One forward starts with the puck and skates towards the blue line, where the other two forwards and two defensemen are waiting in the 1 2 2 formation.
The forward with the puck passes to one of the defensemen, who then passes to the forward on the opposite side of the ice. The forwards then move the puck up the ice, using the 1 2 2 formation to create turnovers and generate scoring opportunities.
2. Breakout and Attack
This drill is designed to help your team practice executing the 1 2 2 forecheck in a game-like situation.
Start with a faceoff in the defensive zone, with three forwards and two defensemen in the 1 2 2 formation. The centerman wins the faceoff and passes to one of the defensemen, who then passes to a forward at the opposite end of the ice.
The forwards then use the 1 2 2 formation to move the puck up the ice, entering the offensive zone and creating scoring opportunities.
3. 1 2 2 Battle Drills
These drills are designed to help your team practice the physical elements of the 1 2 2 forecheck, including body checks and battling for loose pucks.
Start with a puck in the corner of the offensive zone, with the 1 2 2 formation set up. One forward enters the corner to pressure the puck-carrier, while the other two forwards and two defensemen position themselves to intercept passes or pounce on loose pucks.
The drill continues until the puck is cleared or a goal is scored, with plenty of physicality and battling for possession.
Conclusion
By incorporating these 1 2 2 forecheck drills into your practice routine, your team will be well on its way to mastering this essential hockey strategy. Remember to emphasize precision, timing, and communication, and encourage your players to give it their all, both physically and mentally.