3v2 to 5v5
Last Updated: 2026-07-02
Age Group: 14U, 16U and older
Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
Equipment Needed: None
Space Required: Full Ice
Drill Information
3v2 to simulate a rush to a full ice back check.
- Activity starts with a 3v2 at the net front with a second 3v2 waiting in the neutral zone.
- Coaches or players are posted at the top of the circles on each side of the net-front 3v2.
- On the first whistle, players battle at the net front for body positioning while one coach shoots a puck to create a rebound. Players play it out until the whistle.
- On the second whistle, a second puck is shot by the coach on the opposite side and players continue until the third whistle.
- On the third whistle, players in the neutral zone leave and rush up ice, with the original net-front 3v2 following to create a 5v5.
- Play out the 5v5 until a goal, stoppage of play, breakout, or whistle.
Coaching Focus Points
- Recognize passing options.
- Communicate to back checking players.
- Recognize stick hands of threat options.
Shooter Focus Points
- Clean passes.
- Use speed on the rush.
- Put sticks in passing lanes.
Skills Focus
Fundamental Skills:
- Skating
- Positioning
- Stance
- Save Selection
- Rebound Control
- Recovery
Skating Skills:
- Shuffle
- T Push
- C Cut
- Butterfly
- Power Push
Game Situations:
- Macro Game
This drill and the website on which it is hosted were developed as part of USA Hockey's Goaltending Gold certification program. For more drills and goaltending content, visit GoalieGen.com. All drills created and organized in CoachThem.
