HOCKEY – HELP THE PUCK.™ Support the Puck Carrier by becoming a useful option instead of watching the play. Coach Joey™ teaches Players to create passing angles, spacing, and support that moves with the puck.
COACH JOEY™ BY AGE
U5-U7 • U8-U10 • U11-U14 • U15-U18 • Junior
U5-U7 + U8-U10 — Get Close Enough to Help
Move to open ice where your teammate can see you and make a safe pass.
U11-U14 — Create a Good Angle
Do not stand in the same line as the defender. Move to create a passing angle and keep enough distance to give your teammate space.
U15-U18 + Junior — Support the Next Decision
Read pressure and anticipate where the puck carrier may need help next. Support can be underneath the puck, across the ice, or behind the play depending on the situation.
Why Support Matters
Possession becomes easier when the puck carrier has more than one option. As a result, defenders must cover additional space instead of attacking one isolated Player.
Create Separation From Defenders
A useful support Player is available, not merely nearby. Change your route, speed, or position so a defender cannot cover both you and the puck carrier at the same time.
Keep Adjusting
The correct support position changes as the puck moves. Therefore, do not skate to one spot and become a spectator. Continue reading pressure and repositioning.
5 Smart Ways to Support the Puck Carrier
Support the Puck Carrier by solving part of the problem away from the puck. Good support gives the puck carrier a safe outlet, a better passing lane, or enough spacing to attack.
1. Create a Clear Passing Angle
Do not stand directly behind a defender. Move laterally, change depth, or adjust your route so the puck can travel to you without passing through pressure.
2. Keep Useful Spacing
Standing too close crowds the puck. Standing too far away removes the option. Find enough distance to stretch defenders while still being reachable.
3. Move as the Puck Moves
The correct support position changes every second. Support the Puck Carrier by adjusting to pressure instead of skating to one spot and stopping.
4. Communicate Early
Use short, useful information when it helps. A quick call can tell the puck carrier that support is available before pressure arrives.
5. Support the Next Decision
Think one play ahead. If the puck carrier is under pressure, become the safe outlet. If there is time and space, stretch the defense and create another attacking option.
Practice Better Puck Support
Use small-area games where the puck carrier must always have at least two passing options. Stop the drill when Players crowd the puck, hide behind defenders, or become stationary. Restart with better spacing and movement.
Continue with Get Open, Make a Target and Short Shifts. For more player-development resources, visit USA Hockey training materials.
Coach Joey’s Takeaway
When your teammate has the puck, become part of the solution. HELP THE PUCK.™
Coach Joey™ 10-Second Hockey Lesson™
HELP THE PUCK.™
ONE LESSON. ONE INSTRUCTION. ONE TAKEAWAY.™
Part of Coach Joey™ 10-Second Hockey Lessons™. Presented by The Hockey Resource™.
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