A jersey colour is not a permanent group

The situation

When the same players always wear the same colour, the colour can become a label. Meanwhile, a group that works for skating technique may not be the right group for a small-area game.

Try this next session

Start with what players should try in the next drill and choose group sizes to suit the space and the number who can be active at once. Review combinations again when you move from technique to play against opposition. Rotate jersey colours between sessions and explain today’s challenge. A new colour needs a considered setup alongside it.

Hypothetical example

Hypothetical example: 18 skaters practise in three groups of six on three marked areas. Try 3v3 with one puck per area and let different players start with the puck after each stoppage. After six minutes, move one player from each group to the next group for the next drill. At the next session, assign colours again based on the groups you will use that day.

The examples illustrate setups to try and do not describe measured results.

Follow up on the ice

Watch whether a player takes a different role with new teammates: do they offer support, carry the puck or still wait? If many players are waiting for a turn, change group size or the drill as well as jersey colours. Note which combinations you want to try again and why.

In LineupDesigner

Choose the number and size of your training groups. Review the suggested distribution, move players, lock the groups you want to keep and set colours to match the jerseys you are using today. Share the list with the other coaches.

What to check yourself

Changing colours should not hide a permanent ranking. Watch who gets involved, who waits and who repeatedly loses access to the puck. Reconsider group size, drill design and assignments when the challenge is not working.