Top Picture (Slab Version):
1. F skates full speed toward the bottom cone, as you see it in the diagram, curls around the cone, and continues at maximal speed toward the two cones at the top.
2. As he approaches the two cones, the dotted box represents the footwork area. He attempts to keep the front of his body facing the two cones (which represent a point man, or point men) to simulate blocking a shooting lane. He keeps his feet moving, trying to block the lane from either or both of the cones. You can vary the distance positions of those cones, as well.
3. He stays within the footwork area (which isn't drawn on the ice - just explain that it's just outside the width of the cones, and approximately a certain distance in front of them) and moves rapidly within that area, simulating staying in the shooting lane, visualizing how it would change with the player moving, or the puck moving between players. GREAT NEW DRILL! I'm reviewing various NHL games from this season. With a little inspiration from Edmonton Oilers' Benoit Pouliot, I just designed an epic body control drill. The best part, is that it can be disguised as/doubles as a defensive zone drill for wingers! Presenting the slab, and live, versions of the "Pouliot Drill!"
Bottom Picture (Live Version):
1. C1 (on the half boards) pases to F.
2. F passes back to C1. (Steps 1 and 2 optional)
3. C1 passes to C2 (at the point). Simultaneously, F sprints to the point. As F approaches the point, he tries to maintain full body control (especially upper body) and face the two opponents with the front of his body, as he decelerates, taking up as much shooting lane as possible.
4. C2 and C3 play pepper at the point, while F is in continual motion to try and close down the shooting lane.
5. After a few seconds, C2 or C3 attempts a shot.
6. F skates back below the dot, curls back up, and starts again. You can have him stop, or move continuously for a certain number of reps.
To make it more interesting, I suggest a competitive element. A shot on goal is a point for the offensive team. A shot off target, or a blocked shot, is a point for the defending player.
