The Backcheck Game is a high tempo transition game that helps players work on attacking quickly with backcheck pressure.

Setup

• Setup a cross-ice game with 2 nets and 2 goalies.
• Identify a "neutral zone" in the middle of the cross-ice setup. This can be created with cones, tires, or writing on the ice.
• On the whistle, players start at mid ice by attacking 2 v 0 with 2 opposing players backhecking them.
• When the backcheckers gain possession of the puck, they breakout two players on their team, who are waiting in the neutral zone, to attack the other way.
• After the offensive players are stopped, they become the backcheckers.
• Shift goes offense, backcheck, to defense, breakout your team and change.
• Keep score!

Coaching Points

• Offensive players:
  • Attack quickly and practice shooting off of the pass!
  • Support your teammate by getting open when you do not have the puck.
• Defensive players:
  • Keep your sticks on the ice to block passing lanes and angle offensive players.
  • Battle to get puck possession and break the puck out to your players in the neutral zone.
  • Keep your head up to be aware of where the opposing team is, and where your neutral zone teammates are.