Description
The 1 v 1 to 2 v 2 Down Low Battle from Kendall Coyne Schofield is a simple but effective battle game that takes place in an extremely confined space which forces in-tight skills, puck protection and wall work.
Set Up
- 2 nets facing each other between the goal line and the boards about 10 ft from the crease area
- 1 goalie per net
- 1 player from each team in the playing area (eventually 2 per team)
- All other players on the goal line to keep pucks in and keep the playing area confined
- Coach with pucks for when the goalie covers, a goal is scored or the puck leaves the playing area
Game
The object of the game is to play up to a certain number, team "X" vs team "O"
- Coach dumps puck in
- 1 player from each team enters the playing area and battles for the puck
- Players are trying to score on the opposing net
- Coach can blow the battle dead when he/she feels appropriate - usually 30 seconds or less
- Next players enter the playing area when coach dumps the next puck or on the whistle
- After each player gets a few reps at 1 v1, coach can switch it to a 2 v 2 with the same rules
- Keep score!
Coaching Points
- Wall Work - you need to be strong along the walls picking pucks up
- Puck Protection - since the game is in such a tight space players are forced to protect the puck using their body positioning and the wall to their advantage
- Creativity - players should get creative with deception and self passes to create scoring opportunities in such a confined space
