Continuous Hinge Drill

This is a defensive specific hockey drill that requires a minumum of 4 players, 1 puck, and one half of the ice.  The players should line up along the boards at center ice.  If possible it is best for the players to go with their defensive partner.  The first player in line on the strong side (D1) starts backwards and calls for the puck.  The weak side defense (D2) starts near the middle of the ice and provides support for their partner as they receive the puck. D2 needs to call for the puck and be in a good support position to receive the pass and transition up ice.  The pass is then made to the next defense in line as though they are the winger providing an outlet. Both defense skate outside the blue ine and transition backwards, this time D2 is along the boards and D1 is in the middle of the ice providing support.  D2 will receive the pass as they are going backwards and make a pass to D1 when they call for the puck. D1 transitions up ice and makes a pass to the next player in line and they start the drill over again.  This time as they transition up ice, D2 will make a pass to the next player in their line and the next two defense in line will start the drill over again.  D1 and D2 go back to the end of their line.

There are a couple of key points that should be emphasized.  First, the players need to always be in a good support position and no more than half the width of the ice surface apart.  If they get to spread out the drill will fall apart quickly.  Another important habit is to make sure the make firm passes when going from defense to defense.  The players should also always give their partner a good forehand target when calling for the puck.