Corner Houda

The Corner Houda from Dave Smith focuses on puck retrievals, wall play, quick transitions, and structured zone play. It offers flexibility for various d-zone and special teams scenarios by changing it up from 3v3 to 5v3 to 5v4. Setup - Two coaches positioned on opposite sides of the blue line to initiate a rimmed puck. - Players are split into offensive and defensive groups—typically starting 3v3 (but can expand to 5v3 and 5v4). - Puck is rimmed around the boards to initiate a battle. Execution - First three players from one side retrieve the puck and start on offense; three from the other side defend. - Offensive group gains possession and attempts to create a scoring opportunity. - Drill is repeatable with different number combinations: 3v3, 5v3, 5v4 (PP/PK), etc. - Defensive group must pass or skate the puck over the red line to transition out. - Can include a net and goalie at the red line for breakout scoring opportunities after defensive transition. Progression - Start with 3v3 for basic wall play and transition work. - Advance to 3v5 to work on defensive zone returns and structure (slot, net front, strong side wall). - Incorporate special teams scenarios: Power play (PP) starts with puck possession. Penalty kill (PK) may retrieve puck and clear or attempt to shut down the PP setup. - Power play (PP) starts with puck possession. - Penalty kill (PK) may retrieve puck and clear or attempt to shut down the PP setup. Variations - Use variations (3v3, 5v3, 5v4) to target different systems and teaching points. - Can have the defensive group must pass or skate the puck over the red line to transition out or you can include a net and goalie at the red line to give the defense a chance to shoot on net.