Examples of Breakout Drills for Hockey Teams

Introduction to Breakout Drills

Breakout drills are essential for hockey teams to practice transitioning from defense to offense smoothly. These drills help players learn how to communicate, move the puck quickly, and create scoring opportunities. Here are three diverse and practical examples of breakout drills that can enhance your team’s performance on the ice.

Example 1: The Basic Breakout Drill

This drill is perfect for teaching players the fundamentals of breaking out of their defensive zone. It emphasizes positioning and quick puck movement.

The setup involves the defensive team starting in their zone while the offensive team waits at the blue line. The drill begins with the coach signaling the defense to retrieve the puck and initiate the breakout. Players need to communicate effectively, with one defenseman retrieving the puck and the other assisting in moving it up the ice.

The key points to focus on include:

• The defenseman should look for a forward to pass the puck to, making sure to use the boards if necessary.
• The forwards should position themselves to receive the pass, creating a triangle formation.
• Once the puck is passed, the forwards should skate towards the offensive zone and look to set up for a potential shot.

Notes or Variations:

• To increase difficulty, introduce a forechecking opponent to pressure the defense during the breakout.
• You can also alternate the direction of the breakout to practice both left and right side movements.

Example 2: The Two-on-One Breakout Drill

This drill simulates a game-like scenario where players practice breaking out while under pressure. It’s great for teaching players how to handle defensive pressure and create offensive opportunities.

Set up two forwards and one defenseman in the defensive zone. The coach will start with a puck and pass it to the defenseman. The defenseman must make a quick decision to pass to one of the forwards, who will then carry the puck into the offensive zone while facing one defender.

In this drill, players should focus on:

• The defenseman making a smart, quick pass to the forward.
• The forward using their speed and agility to evade the defender while maintaining puck control.
• The second forward should position themselves to support and create a passing option.

Notes or Variations:

• You can add a second defender to increase the challenge.
• Encourage players to shoot or pass quickly once they enter the offensive zone to simulate real gameplay.

Example 3: The Full Ice Breakout Drill

This advanced drill is designed for teams that want to practice their breakout skills across the entire ice surface. It’s excellent for building teamwork and improving overall game strategy.

Begin with the entire team on the ice. Divide the players into two groups: one group will act as the defense, and the other as the offense. The drill starts with the defense in their zone and the offense positioned at the opposite blue line. The coach initiates the drill by giving the defense a puck to start the breakout.

During this drill, focus on:

• The importance of making quick, accurate passes to keep the puck moving forward.
• The forwards should spread out and create passing lanes.
• After the breakout, the offensive players should transition into a controlled attack, aiming for a shot on goal or setting up a play.

Notes or Variations:

• Use different formations for the breakout, such as a 1-2-1 or 2-1-2, to encourage strategic thinking.
• You can also include a rule that requires a certain number of passes before a shot can be taken to promote teamwork.

By incorporating these examples of breakout drills for hockey teams into your practice sessions, you can help your players develop the skills they need to execute effective breakouts during games. Happy practicing!