Crease Scramble 3v2
Three offensive players and two defenders start at the top of the box. On the coach’s whistle, all five players sprint toward the crease and touch it, simulating a transition or fast-break scenario. Immediately after, the coach rolls a ball into play, creating a 3v2 ground ball situation. Offense must gain possession and attack, emphasizing proper spacing, timing, and finishing under pressure. Defenders focus on communication and rotations.
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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!
2v1 Ground Balls
Set three lines 2 yards apart: two teammates on the outside lines, one defender in the middle line. Coach rolls a ball toward the middle. First teammate scoops the ball; second teammate positions between ball and defender, using body and stick to shield. Communicate and work together to win possession. Can vary angles or progress to a “go to goal” scenario.
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.
Hot Rock
Set up a 20x20 yard box with three offensive players against two defenders. Offense moves and passes within the box, working to keep control of the ball. Defenders work together. One covers the ball, while the other splits the remaining two offensive players to disrupt passing lanes. Play continues as offense tries to maintain possession, and defense tries to create turnovers. Multiple boxes can run simultaneously so all players get turns on offense and defense. Encourage crisp ball movement, smart spacing, and clear communication. Offense should recognize overloads and exploit them, while defense practices teamwork and anticipation. Variations include awarding points for four consecutive passes by offense or interceptions/possession gains by defense to make the drill competitive. Adjust box size or numbers to challenge players further.
Target Practice Face Off
Practice winning faceoffs and directing the ball to specific locations on the field. Set up at the center X. One player at a time gets set with a ball. Before the whistle, the coach drops a cone somewhere in the midfield area. On the whistle, the player wins the draw and forces the ball toward that cone. Next player steps up, cone moves, and repeat. Variation: Use different faceoff moves. Have two players face off against each other with different colored cones as targets.
Feed the Crease
Practice defending crease players against picks, cuts, and feeds. 2 offensive players on the crease vs 2 defenders. Perimeter players move the ball around looking to feed the crease. Defenders constantly adjust, staying between their man and the ball to deny feeds. Communication is key to covering picks and rolls. Variation: Have offense work pick/re-pick, high-low cuts, and pick-and-roll on the crease.
Zig Zag Dodge Drill
Set up two cones: one downhill, one near goal line extended. Players perform a split dodge at the first cone, then a zigzag dodge at the second, simulating live game action. After the second dodge, make a pass to the backside and cut for a shot. Focus on footwork, timing, and maintaining game-like intensity. Reps should emphasize smooth transitions, realistic angles, and quick decision-making under pressure.
Riding 2-1-3 V Ride with Dead Ball off Shot
Improve riding after a dead ball on the end line following a shot. Lock your attack and midfield onto the clearing team's players. Drop 3 attack players into a zone splitting the goalie and 3 defensemen. The attack zone up and attack the first clearing pass, forcing long or contested throws. Variation: Strengthen the clear to practice forcing turnovers in live situations.