3v2 to 2v1
Goalie starts with a ball in the crease and passes to three offensive players (Player 1–3) at half field. Offense attacks a 3v2 against two defenders (Player 4–5). The last offensive player to touch the ball rotates back to defend in a 2v1 vs. the defenders, while the other two rotate out to the D line. Goalie or recovered ground balls start the 2v1. After the 2v1, release three new offensive players to repeat.
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West Genny
Set three offensive players (Player 1–3) vs. two defenders (Player 4–5) on a short field with a net at each end (sideline-to-sideline OR box-to-box OR similar distance). Play 3v2 until a goal or turnover. The last offensive player to touch the ball rotates out; remaining offense switches to defense and runs back into the hole to defend their net. The goalie clears a new ball to 3 new offensive players pushing down in a 3v2. End practice on a high note and keep score for fun!
3v2 Sideways
Set up cones to define each team’s half of the field. Place three offensive players (Player 1–3) vs. two defenders (Player 4–5). On the whistle, offense moves the ball within boundaries, looking for high-percentage shots; defenders communicate, stay tight, and force turnovers. Can start with ground balls, adjust players, or shift boundaries for progression.
Numbers
Players line up with the offense at the top of the field and the defense on the sides. The coach calls out a set of numbers, such as “43,” where the first number is offensive players and the second number is defensive players. That many players sprint in to compete for the ball and play a live possession, e.g., 43 - 4v3, 55 - 5v5, 32 - 3v2. Variations can adjust the number combinations to create even or uneven matchups.
3v2 Out and Back
Set three offensive players (Player 1, 3, 5) and two defensive players (Player 2, 4) on half field. Offense passes upfield, moving quickly through midline. Defense sprints to midline, forms a tight stack in the “hole,” communicates, and contests passes. Offense stays spread, draws defenders, and looks for high-percentage shots. Rotate players through all lines for full engagement.
Canadian 2v2 Ground Balls
Teach defenders to scoop ground balls in the crease area and transition the ball upfield. 2 defensive lines behind the goal, 5 yards from GLE. 2 goalies in the cage. Coach at 15 yards with a bucket of balls. Coach shoots low, soft shots that deflect into the rebound zone. Defenders rush up, scoop the ground ball, break out to the wing, then turn and throw back to the goalie. The player breaks upfield and receives a clearing pass. Repeat. Variation: Add offensive pressure near the crease.
Split and Roll Dodge
Teach players to chain dodges together — split dodge into a roll dodge, finishing with a shot. Players line up at the top of the box with balls. Set up 3 cones: one in the middle of the box (5 yards in), and one to each side (5 yards down and over). Players drive in, split dodge at the first cone, go right or left, roll inside at the second cone, and drive for a shot. Variation: Move cone locations. Add defenders at the cones for pressure.
Funnel
Practice defensive positioning and holds when playing a ball carrier from up top, directing them down the alley. Defensive middies and dummy offensive middies line up outside the restraining line. On the whistle, the ball carrier drives toward the goal. The defender turns his hips, points feet to the sideline, and takes away the middle. Establish contact with a top-hand hold — top hand on the ball carrier's lead shoulder, bottom hand on lead hip, gloves only (no stick contact). If the dodger rolls back, maintain contact and stay topside, driving them down the alley into the slide.
Swarm Drill
Set up 6 offensive players outside the crease moving clockwise and 6 defenders inside moving counterclockwise. Coach rolls or passes the ball to a random offensive player. Two defenders immediately converge to create a 2v1 on the ball. Offense must secure the ground ball, find outlets, and quickly move the ball. Defenders rotate to cover adjacent threats, emphasizing communication, quick reactions, and aggressive doubling.