Picket Fences Game (2 vs. 2 or 3 vs. 3)

Picket Fences is a great small area hockey game that can be setup as a 2 vs. 2 or 3 vs. 3 game. The offensive team gets 2 points for scoring a goal and the defensive team gets 1 point by skating the puck between the tires. Game: Objective: Play a Game up to a certain Number (1 point for the Defensive Team skating the puck between the tires & 2 points for the Offensive Team when they score) - When the whistle blows, three players in White (Offensive) get a puck from coach while three players in Red (Defensive) being to defend - The team in White attempts to score while the Team in Red attempts to steal the puck & skate it between the tires - The coach allows the players to compete for 20-30 seconds - There is NO change of possession (White is offense the entire shift) - When the next whistle blows, three new players enter from the White and Red team - Now, Red is on Offense and White is on Defense - Coach can give a new puck to the Offensive Team if: - If the goalie covers the puck - If the puck goes out of play - A goal is scored - The defensive team skates the puck between the tires Principles: The brilliance of this game is both teams are attempting to ‘score’ while one attacks the goalie & one aims for possession to skate the puck between the tires. The game incorporates: - Defending 3v3 (in a condensed space) - Once the Defenders gain possession of the puck, they must thinking ‘offensively’ to skate/get open to score a Goal (skate puck between tires) - Communication with other teammates is essential so each defender can operate in a ‘man on man’ scenario - Attacking 3v3 (in a condensed space) - The offensive players are can either challenge a defender 1v1 with the puck or try to isolate and create a 2v1 on a defender - Player without the puck must work to get open, drive net or create space for teammates - Must find a way to create space & opportunities to get off a quality shot with pressure - ‘Play after the Play’ – anticipate loose puck/rebounds and regain possession for more offensive zone time with the puck - Players must constantly talk & perceive the ever changing environment to solve problems as they happen (both offensively & defensively) Related Game / Variation The picket fences 3 vs 3 uses the full zone and incorporates 2 gates. This way the defenders can use deception or are forced to use another option in order to carry the puck through the gates.