Power Play Drills For Ice Hockey
Ice hockey is a fast-paced and intense sport that requires a unique set of skills. One of the most important aspects of the game is the power play, which gives a team the advantage of having more players on the ice than their opponents. In order to maximize the effectiveness of the power play, it is crucial to practice a variety of power play drills. These drills should focus on improving passing, shooting, and overall teamwork. Here are some of the best power play drills for ice hockey:
1. The Triangle Drill
The Triangle Drill is a great power play drill that emphasizes passing and puck movement. To set up the drill, start with three players in a triangle formation. The player at the top of the triangle has the puck, and they must pass it to one of the other two players, who then pass it back to the top player. The top player then passes it to the other player, who shoots on net. This drill should be repeated numerous times, with the players rotating positions so that everyone gets a chance to shoot.
2. The Box Drill
The Box Drill is another excellent power play drill that focuses on passing and teamwork. To set up the drill, four players form a box formation around the net. One player starts with the puck and must pass it to each of the other players in the box, who then pass it back to the starting player. The starting player then passes it to the player on the opposite side of the box, who shoots on net. This drill should be repeated numerous times, with the players rotating positions so that everyone gets a chance to shoot.
3. The 5-on-3 Drill
The 5-on-3 Drill is a great way to practice a power play situation with a two-man advantage. To set up the drill, start with five players on one team and three players on the other team. The team with five players has the advantage and must work on passing and shooting with the extra players on the ice. The team with three players must work on defense and penalty killing. This drill should be repeated numerous times, with the players switching teams so that everyone gets a chance to practice both offense and defense.
4. The Umbrella Drill
The Umbrella Drill is a great way to practice a power play situation with one player at the top of the zone. To set up the drill, start with four players in a diamond formation with one player at the top of the zone. The player at the top of the zone has the puck and must pass it to one of the other players, who then pass it back to the top player. The top player then passes it to the other player, who shoots on net. This drill should be repeated numerous times, with the players switching positions so that everyone gets a chance to practice passing and shooting from different angles.
5. The Overload Drill
The Overload Drill is a great way to practice a power play situation with more players on one side of the zone. To set up the drill, start with three players on one side of the zone and two players on the other side. The three players on one side have the advantage and must work on passing and shooting with the extra players on the ice. The two players on the other side must work on defense and penalty killing. This drill should be repeated numerous times, with the players switching positions so that everyone gets a chance to practice both offense and defense.
These are just some of the best power play drills for ice hockey. By practicing these drills, you can improve your passing, shooting, and overall teamwork, which will help you become a more effective power play unit. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, these drills are essential for improving your skills and taking your game to the next level.
