3 on 3

Question
QUESTION: What are the basic systems to playing 3 on 3 hockey?  Is the forecheck such as 2-1? Is there a specific rotation that the players should be expected to perform on their zone. Or, is the game more free form relying on the skill and experience of the player? I'm trying to figure out what I am instructing them to do as they prepare to play. Nearly all the players are AA and A level travel players.  Thanks, John

ANSWER: John,

Thanks your for writing.  Well, the tactics for 3 on 3 will depend on it you are running full ice or cross ice. While in the attacking mode, the players must always be moving and cycling...not standing still, hoping to get the pass.  If they are always moving, they open up time and space and they generate scoring opportunities.

If they are in the defensive mode, it's better if they set up in a defensive triangle.  Now they can do two types.  A passive triangle where the top of the triangle is facing the puck carrier.  The other is known as an aggressive triangle where the point is close to the goalie allow two players at the bottom of the triangle base now towards the puck carrier.

The aggressive one allows the line to me more active in intercepting the puck.  Plus, it puts the two top players in a better situation for a quicker breakout.  However, the key to a successful 3 on 3 line is their ability to keep moving and pass the puck to where the player is going to be, not to where the player is at.

While in the defensive mode, the line needs to be able to hold the shape and integrity of the triangle.  Plus, move their sticks from side to side to interfere with the passing lane of the puck.  If the pass is not tape to tape on the attacking team, the defensive line needs to be the first one to the puck and be aggressive to regain control of the puck.  Once they have control of the puck, each player needs to think about puck supporting the puck carrier by constantly moving into scoring positions.

I hope this helps.

Rob Lopez - CEO / Commissioner
Pass the Puck, Inc. / University Ice Hockey League - Mexico
www.passthepuck.net / www.toroshockey.com.mx





---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Mr. Lopez, thank you for your response.  Very helpful. Would you be willing to expand your thoughts regarding "Now they can do two types.  A passive triangle where the top of the triangle is facing the puck carrier.  The other is known as an aggressive triangle where the point is close to the goalie allow two players at the bottom of the triangle base now towards the puck carrier." I'm trying to understand the top and bottom. Is the point that is part of the aggressive system treated as the swing point around which the other two points swing? In the passive system am I positioning the defense much as you would play 3 on 5 penalty kill? Thanks again, John

Answer
John,

Here's a website that I write coaching tips for.  
http://forums.internationalhockey.net/showthread.php?11448-Coaching-Tip-86-Playi

If you ever need help, just write.

Rob Lopez - Commissioner
University Ice Hockey League - Mexico