Setup:

D1 starts beside the dangle bar or black pad.

F1 starts facing the middle of ice on the opposite side of the dangle bar/black pad.

Puck placement depends on coach preference (can be given to F1 or dumped in for a race).

Drill Steps:

On the whistle, D1 backpedals to create initial space, then pivots forward to close the gap and angle F1 toward the boards.

F1 turns toward the middle, loops around the dangle bar or black pad, and attacks the net attempting to beat D1.

Play out the 1-on-1 to a shot and rebound.

Key Teaching Points for Players:

For D1 (Defender):

Maintain a tight gap while backpedalling—don’t give F1 too much space.

Keep stick in the lane, steering F1 toward the boards.

Pivot under control—don’t cross over too much when turning forward.

Body position first, stick second—seal the lane with your hips and shoulders.

For F1 (Forward):

Attack with speed immediately after turning.

Read the defender’s gap—decide whether to cut inside or drive wide.

Protect the puck—body between D1 and the puck at all times.

Change speed or direction to create separation.

Coaching Cues:

Defender—close the gap early, steer them outside

Forward—win the race to the middle, attack with purpose