How to Run a Hockey Defense: Left Wing Lock

This is a popular variation on the two-player forecheck defense. It sets the defense in a slightly different position and creates a wonderful wall against offensive breakouts.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Hockey Sticks
• Hockey Pucks
• Ice Skates

1. Have the right defender sit just behind the blue line and be responsible for protection of the right lane.
2. Have the left defender take the center lane and keep in motion just inside the neutral zone.
3. Instruct the left wing to hold the left side of the offensive zone, patrolling at the top of the faceoff circle.
4. Note that these players do not overlap their zones, nor do they help each other if an attacker enters. This gives them less ice to cover.
5. Send the center and right wing forward to engage the puck carrier, flushing her along the boards toward the left-wing wall.
6. Maintain this defense until the center and right wing succeed in intercepting a pass, or until the offense breaks the defense.

Tips & Warnings

• If the right wing cuts behind the defensive wall, the left wing needs to break her position and pursue.
• 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.