Attacking with the 2-1-2 Forecheck

In this dynamic presentation, former NHL player and current Lindenwood University Coach Rick Zombo walks you through options for implementing the aggressive 2-1-2 forecheck.

The 2-1-2 forechecking system enables forwards to skate aggressively, taking time and space away from opponents and creating turnovers. Coach Zombo provides a basic 2-1-2 structure and identifies many different routes that will give players a numerical advantage. Using the three H's (hunter, helper, highman), he teaches young forwards the various responsibilities of the aggressive 2-1-2 forecheck. Teaching the fundamentals of every role creates team unity and creates growth that can be measured as a five-man unit, holding everyone accountable for the outcome.

Using a whiteboard diagrams immediately followed by on-ice demonstrations, Coach Zombo shares the following formations:

• The Can-Am
• Strong Wide Pinch
• Hard-wrap
• 2-3 Forecheck
• Wide 2-1-2
• Left-wing Lock
• Check Forecheck

The 2-3 Forecheck drill demonstrates how to control an individual opponent's pace of play. Coach Zombo's effective "trapping" style eliminates viable passing outlets, forcing the opponent to take the time to look at every available passing option before moving the puck. This fundamental yet effective system forces the opposition to remain flat-footed as they search for an open outlet to pass to. This slows the game to a desired pace and exposes the opponents lack of situational awareness.

Coach Zombo's ability to take an NHL system like the Left Wing Lock (used by the Detroit Redwings) and break down its complex structure to a fundamental level for every age level speaks to his coaching prowess. His communication skills let the Left Wing Lock demonstrate how to successfully remove time and space by funneling the opponent into a designated section of the ice, eliminating other outlet options. The Left Wing Lock is a compilation of all three major focuses of the forecheck, and Coach Zombo's coaching style demonstrates the usefulness of the LWL to perfection.

This presentation stresses the importance of understanding changing roles and adapting accordingly. Coach Zombo explains and demonstrates the variations of the 2-1-2 forecheck so clearly that players and coaches of all ages will benefit.

51 minutes. 2014.