4v3 Forechecking
Last Updated: 2026-07-02
Age Group: 14U, 16U and older
Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
Equipment Needed: None
Space Required: Half Ice
Drill Information
Half ice 4v3 forecheck.
- Teams alternate being the forechecking team (4 players) or the breakout team (3 players).
- The coach begins the game by dumping a puck into an area where the breakout team can gain possession.
- The game plays out 4v3 for 20-30 seconds.
- If the breakout team (3 players) scores, the goal is worth 3 points. If the forechecking team (4 players) scores, the goal is worth 1 point.
- Alternate breakout teams and make sure to switch sides.
Optional Additional Rules:
- 3v2, 4v3, or 5v4
- Change the point system to shots to incentivize higher scoring and success.
Coaching Focus Points
- Communicate threats.
- Anticipate play.
- Set feet on shooter stick.
Shooter Focus Points
- Forechecking hard force plays.
- Use speed and passes to get around players.
- Keep players to the outside.
Skills Focus
Fundamental Skills:
- Skating
- Positioning
- Stance
- Save Selection
- Rebound Control
- Recovery
Skating Skills:
- Shuffle
- T Push
- C Cut
- Butterfly
- Power Push
Game Situations:
- Small Sided 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.
