Author Information
Author Name:
John Pirie
Author School:
The Governors School
Drill Specs
Drill Theme:
Clears
Field Position:
Offense, Midfield, Defense
Drill Style:
Game
Time Needed:
15 min
Field Location:
Half Field
Skill Level:
Advanced
Objective
Teach players transition play in clearing and recovering on defense.
Description of Drill-Execution
This drill is designed to allow you to practice clearing by requiring at least one “over” or cross field pass by the clearing defenders(#1 - #4). Once the ball is cleared beyond the top of the box then the ball is thrown to the top opposite middie(#8 or #10). Offensive players will then attack in a 5v4 with Attack #5,6,7 (who have just been riding)and a middie from line #8 and line #10(one of which received the last “over” pass)against the three defensemen (#1,2,4) and an additional defensive SSM or LSM from line #9. When the last pass is made from the clearing defenseman to the opposite offensive middie there is a “fire” call for a turnover during a clear and the goalie and 3 defensemen have to pack into the hole fast.
Drill Diagram:
Skills Practiced:
- Long Clears
- Slow Break Offense
- Defensive cuts
Variations/Progression/Increased difficulty (As your players improve their skills incorporate the following…)
Offense is required to move the ball quickly and is only given 5-10 seconds to get a quality shot. Drill can be run at both ends of the field to maximize “touches” for all players.