How to Run a Hockey Defense: Zone Defense
This is the most basic defense (and the easiest for beginning players to understand). It uses the simple concept of assigning a portion of the ice to each player.
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Instructions
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Instruct the two defenders that they are responsible for the area from the back of the net forward to the middle of the faceoff circle, and from the boards to center ice.
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2
Instruct the two wings to maintain protection from the blue line back to the middle of the faceoff circle, and from the boards to almost halfway across the rink.
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3
Have the center hold safe the area between the two faceoff circles, overlapping slightly into the wings' zones.
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Instruct the defense that when a puck carrier enters a zone, that zone's defender moves toward the puck and engages the offense.
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1
Tips & Warnings
If more than one attacker enters a zone, an adjacent defender can leave his zone to assist.
The defenders should be trying to intercept passes as they move from zone to zone.
Watch that the offense doesn't slip in between the zones undefended. One of the defenders needs to pick that player up.
If you have any condition that would impair or limit your ability to engage in physical activity, please consult a physician before attempting this activity.
