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MUSINGS FROM THE BENCH

This week we look at a second defensive zone structure.

DZ Swarm

This DZ structure has a couple hallmarks worth discussing.

1. Out number the puck battle below the top of the circles.

2. D2 vacates the net front area to assist/support the puck battle.

This structure gives the defensive team an advantage in the buck battle by out numbering the opposition, sometimes referred to as “Swarming” the opposition.

F2 stays in the net front area, shading towards the battle to support puck on exit. F3 drops lower to the battle and seals the boards. This prevents a puck going “Low to High” to the opposition D.

Set Backs

Where the DZ “Swarm” can be vey effective, there are some issues that can arise. If the opposition wins puck possession and moves it quickly, the defending team can be caught will players outside the dots.

The net front is not protected as much as in the Box + 1 system. This can lead to the opposition out numbering the defending team in the scoring danger zone.

The defending team must have a good plan to get back into position to defend.

Exit Plan

Player need to know the exit plan once possession has been secured. We will discuss this in  a later post.

Coach Preference

Both DZ structures can be used depending on situation, opposition OZ structure, rink size and player personnel. It really comes down to coach preference and the make up of your team.

System # 1

DZ “Swarm”

1. D1 creates contact and pins.

2. D2 supports the battle low.

3. F1 supports the battle in a higher position.

4. F2 supports battle from the net front.

5. F3 drops towards battle and seals wall.

Drill # 1

DZ Expand and Contract

1. Defensive line begins in the "5 on a Die/Pack it In" position.

2. Offensive line starts to move puck. Coach blows whistle and defensive line expands to DZ coverage.

3. Coach blows a second whistle and defensive line contracts back to "Pack it In" position.

4. Coach blows a third whistle and defensive line expands to DZ position a second time.

5. Offensive line continues to change position on the fly.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

PERFORMANCE ARTICLE OF THE WEEK