Effective Ice Utilization and the use of Small Games are 2 important ingredients in developing a efficient and effective practice. It is important for all coaches at all levels of the game to take the time to plan their practices and to choose or create drills that allow for maximum utilization of the ice and teaching of the fundamental skills. It is particularly important for coaches to challenge young players through drills and to create a FUN environment that promotes learning! If you use shared ice for many of your practices it is important that all the coaches work together to insure an effective use of this ice!

The "Town Carnival Drill" involves creating 3 stations on the ice – each of the stations has a small game that focuses on the fundamental skills of skating; passing / receiving; puck possession; and shooting / scoring. This is a great drill that promotes ice utilization and skill development for your players – I hope you and your players enjoy it!