Coaches Corner
Down the Wall

PURPOSE
To reinforce proper checking/angling techniques.

EQUIPMENT
None

TIME
2-3 minutes

PROCEDURES
1. Players are in two lines on each side of the ice, from the blue line down, facing the end boards.
2. Leader dumps a puck into the corner and players from both lines go for possession.
3. The player without the puck attempts to angle the opponent out of the play with an effective body check along the side boards. Player with the puck attempts to escape.
4. Puck must be skated past the blue line to be considered cleared.
5. Alternate sides in each zone.

KEY POINTS
First player to the puck gains possession and attempts to carry it out of the zone while the other player tries to eliminate the body check.
Players should gain possession first, before skating with it; use the boards and the body to protect if necessary.

DRILL PROGRESSIONS
Finish the drill with a shot on goal, rather then by clearing.
Make it a 2-on-1 or 3-on-1 activity.