Races is a great way to reinforce skating fundamentals. Encourage players to use their edges to take turns with speed.
Description
Net in placed on the goal line at the bottom of the circles
Coach places cones above top the circles inline with player lines
Pucks are controlled by the coach at the goal line
Coach passes or places the puck about 20-30ft from the net
When the coach says “Go” the first players in line race around the cones and towards the puck
Drill ends when the puck crosses the goal line (in the net or otherwise).
Players return to their lines.
Backwards skating can be added to the patterns starting with backwards to the cones and then forwards to the puck.
Coach can add more cones to change race pattern. Here players can perform stops, turns, pivots and transitions.
Key Points
As players get better draw a line 10 feet away from the net to encourage players to shoot.
Ensure the puck is place on the net side of the cones to avoid head on collision with players.
Have players switch lines in an organized fashion to avoid collision and line budging.
When adding different patterns focus on teaching points. For stops player should face the inside of the drill for both stops.
