Practices are typically 1 hour long. Most players will do best learning skills by

1. Break the skill down into sub-skills of 1-2 steps.
2. Teach the sub-skills. Demonstrate rather than explain.
3. Chain the sub-skills together. Provide lots of praise and encouragement
4. Practice the entire skill.

Drills need to be fun, simple, and adaptive. They should follow a standard routine, a whistle can be helpful.

Volunteers

On a team of 15-20 players there may be 3-5 players who need one-on-one help. For the rest of the team a ration of 2 volunteers to 5-7 players is good. It is reasonable to have 7-9 volunteers in addition to the two coaches. Most volunteers do not need significant hockey skills.

Practice equipment

• whistle(s)
• cones
• water bottles
• jersey
• clipboard, pen, paper
  

Typical practice breakdown (1 hr)

• free skate 8 min
• stretching 3 min
• play "sharks and minnows" or other game: 10 min
• divide into drill groups (typically 2-3 groups by level) 10-15 min (example: Eagle advanced group drills)
  
• scrimmage for remainder 25-30 min (need jersey or other way to identify teams)
• meet at center ice for team cheer

Bench support

During practices station a volunteer on the bench to support and encourage athletes who need a rest. Provide water using personalized bottles with long straws for use with masks.