4v2 Mini Hockey- "Possession or Punishment"
This game is designed to build on your teams small passing game and to recognize in a game like situation a long transitional pass when the opportunity presents itself.
Organization
Set up 2 grids side by side, 15 by 15 yards each. Use 12 players ( 3 teams of 4 );
2 teams are offense. Each of these teams stays in 1 grid. The third team plays defense by splitting and assigning 2 defenders to each grid.
The Game
1. One of the offensive teams plays keep away against the 2 defenders in one grid ( 4v2 ). After these players complete three passes, they try to advance the ball to the other grid ( long pass). The first pass into the grid cannot be challenged by a defender. The four offensive players receiving the pass will now try to complete three passes and play continues.
2. If the defensive team wins the ball, the offensive team that lost possession has to sprint to a designated area ( a predetermined cone ) outside the grids and perform a fitness related exercise ( the punishment ). All four defenders switch back to offense and take the place of the team that lost possession of the ball.
3. When the four offensive players return to the grid, they become the new defenders ( 2 defenders in each grid ).
Skills Emphasized
Passing, moving and supporting the ball
Decision making- assessing the position of defenders and teammates.
Field vision
Recognizing when the long outlet pass is the best option.
Apply advanced defensive skills in a game like situation to win the ball in a numerical inferior area.
Establishing the Punishment
Give ownership back to the players in this game. After each loss of possession have the players determine what the next punishment will be. You will find that by giving the players a "choice" they will have a lot more fun out of this phase.
Some options my players have used include: sprinting w/o the ball, sprinting w/ball, wheel barrels, leg throw downs, piggy backing, push-ups, crunches or any plyometric drill ( exploding onto benches for 1 minute).
Variation
Adjust the size and numbers within the grid based upon the needs of your team. This game can be broken down into a 2v1 or expanded into an 8v4. Be creative, add stipulations and restrictions to add challenging aspects.
Remember to emphasize that 95% of game is played without the ball. Effective players are those that make the best decisions in support of the ball and space.
Good Luck & most importantly have fun,
Jeff
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