Supporting his presentation on Developing Good Habits for Decision Making, Kevin Galerno shares this puck possession drill that continually adds layers of pressure and forces players to make quick decisions.

Download the 2024 Global Skills Showcase Drill Book.

Awareness and Possession Progression

Drill Description:

• As F1 enters NZ with puck, F2 (red) will be released to add pressure and try to force to F1 into a turnover.
• 4-8 seconds after F2 leaves, F3 (blue) will be released and add pressure to F1, trying to force a turnover.
• The drill will continue until F1 loses the puck.
• The purpose is to continually add (layer) pressure on F1, forcing them to look past layer 1 to layer 2, then eventually layer 3.
  

Progression: Adding F4 support

• After sending the second layer of pressure, the coach could send an F4 support player.
• This forces the defending players to not get puck focused and look around for players and information.

Key Teaching Points:

• Exaggerate awareness to help make it more natural in game situations.
• Don't let F1 skate randomly without looking. This will not translate to making the right decision and ultimately making more plays in games.
• If a support player is added, communication is a must to help maintain possession.
  
• Remind players that the drill goes until they lose the puck. 
  
• Don't get frustrated.