Full-Ice Backcheck Relay
Effort
Legend
- player
- ball
- movement path
How it works
Build maximum-effort backchecking habits by racing back to stop a 2-on-1 through a competitive relay format.
What you need
- hockey stick
- puck
- ice
Your focus
Backchecking effort is one of the most coachable and consequential team behaviors in hockey , a high-effort backchecker can turn a 2-on-1 into a 2-on-2, changing the game. Teaching players that a full-speed backcheck can neutralize any rush advantage builds the habit of never giving up on a play. Effort in the backcheck is one of the highest-return effort investments in hockey.
Team A initiates a 2-on-1 rush; before they cross the red line, Team B sends one backchecker from behind the goal line.
Backchecker must sprint at full speed to catch the play before a shot is taken.
If the backchecker reaches the rush in time, they join the defense; if not, it remains a 2-on-1.
Rotate roles every 3 minutes; track how often the backchecker successfully neutralizes the rush.
Goal
You're there when the backchecker catches the attacker and prevents a clean shot, a full-speed sprint all the way back.
Helpful cues
- First step is your fastest step, go immediately
- Take the shortest angle back, not the pretty route
- The goal you prevent is as valuable as the goal you score
Adjust the challenge
Make it easier
Strip it back
Give the backchecker a head start on the rush to guarantee early success.
UpLVL it
Add the next challenge
Add a 10-second time pressure, if the backchecker does not catch up in 10 seconds, they receive a conditioning consequence.No account needed
Build a practice plan
Add drills, keep the plan in this browser, then share a link with your staff or parents.This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.
This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.After every practice, UpLVL automatically surfaces the drills each player needs to work on most. See it for yourself.