2 vs 2 Game (With 1 Goalie & Tire Nets)

https://vimeo.com/657484569

Only 1 goalie? No Problem! Coach Alyssa Gagliardi shows coaches how they can run a cross-ice game with only one goalie. One team shoots on a goalie, while the other team has 2 small tires on the opposite end they try to hit to score points. Below we discuss the setup, coaching points & variations for different ability levels.

Setup

Cross-ice setup as shown in the diagram. Can be 2v2, 3v3, or 4v4.
One team shoots on a goalie and the other team tries to hit tires for points. You can add 1 to 3 tires depending on the skill level of your players (the more tires, the easier it is for the other team).
On the whistle, the coach flips the puck into the zone. Coaches can blow a whistle for a line change, if the goalie freezes the puck, the puck goes out of play, or a goal is scored.
Switch up the sides during the course of the game so everyone gets a chance to shoot on the tires and the goalies. Both nets provide fun and unique challenges.
The coach should keep score! Players waiting at the blue line should cheer for their teammates.

Coaching Points

Encourage good habits during this game (stick on the ice, play with your head up, communicate with your team). Learn 8 Important Hockey Habits From Topher Scott.
Encourage give & goes, or jumping to space when you do not have the puck. View video examples of Moving Without The Puck.

Variations

Can vary the number of players playing (2v2, 3v3, 4v4).
Can vary the size of the playing area.
Can set up the game so if a team scores on the tires, the teams switch sides and their team gets to shoot on the goalie now.
If you do not have any goalies you can have both teams try to score on tires. (View example).
View 10 Games to Play With No Goalies