Only 1 goalie? No Problem! Coach Alyssa Gagliardi shows coaches how they can run a cross-ice game with only one goalie. One team shoots on a goalie, while the other team has 2 small tires on the opposite end they try to hit to score points. Below we discuss the setup, coaching points & variations for different ability levels.

Setup

• Cross-ice setup as shown in the diagram. Can be 2v2, 3v3, or 4v4.
• One team shoots on a goalie and the other team tries to hit tires for points. You can add 1 to 3 tires depending on the skill level of your players (the more tires, the easier it is for the other team).
• On the whistle, the coach flips the puck into the zone. Coaches can blow a whistle for a line change, if the goalie freezes the puck, the puck goes out of play, or a goal is scored.
• Switch up the sides during the course of the game so everyone gets a chance to shoot on the tires and the goalies. Both nets provide fun and unique challenges.
• The coach should keep score! Players waiting at the blue line should cheer for their teammates.

Coaching Points

• Encourage good habits during this game (stick on the ice, play with your head up, communicate with your team). Learn 8 Important Hockey Habits From Topher Scott.
• Encourage give & goes, or jumping to space when you do not have the puck. View video examples of Moving Without The Puck. 

Variations

• Can vary the number of players playing (2v2, 3v3, 4v4).
• Can vary the size of the playing area.
• Can set up the game so if a team scores on the tires, the teams switch sides and their team gets to shoot on the goalie now.
• If you do not have any goalies you can have both teams try to score on tires. (View example).
• View 10 Games to Play With No Goalies