3 vs. 3 Split Zone Game is a great small area hockey game to practice offensive and defensive principles that occur during the course of a game. The zone is split in half (as shown in the diagram and video) and the forwards are trying to score a goal, while the defense is defending and trying to exit the zone. The defense must complete one pass before exiting the zone.
Setup
- Split the zone in half (like it is shown in the diagram and whiteboard video)
- 3 offensive players vs. 3 defensive players. One goalie.
- The coach chips the puck to the goalie, who deflects the puck into the corner of the ice. This begins the 3 vs. 3.
- Forwards work to score a goal (which is 2 points) and the defenders work to defend and exit the zone. Defenders must complete one pass before they exit the zone (which is 1 point).
- The game ends when a goal is scored, the defense exits the zone after a pass, the goalie freezes the puck or the coach blows the whistle.
Coaching Points
- Offense:
- Protect the puck.
- Create time and space.
- Use the boards to protect the puck and make bank passes.
- Be a passing outlet for your teammate.
- Defense:
- Sticks on the ice (to angle and block passing lanes).
- Communicate with each other.
