INTERMEDIATE 

• With two lines stationed along the boards at centre-floor, have players come forward in groups of three, standing in an “I” formation (three players in a straight line). 

• The second player in line has a ball (or the coach) and rolls it out into the middle of the floor, or off of the boards.

• Variation #1 (7 min): "Neutral Zone." The first player then goes out and retrieves the loose ball, with the second player in line pursuing them; also giving the first player a 2-second head start. The third player gets open to receive a pass back from the first player once they’ve corralled the loose ball, communicating "here's your help." The second player tries to knock down the pass (sticks up) and/or interfere with the first player in getting the ball back to the third person; start with no physical contact (Draw Diagram).

• Variation #2 (7 min):  "Defensive Zone."  Same drill as the above variation except starting from the middle of the defensive zone, which brings the crease into play for the ball carriers.

• Variation #3 (7 min):  "Battle With Support."  Same drill as variation above except the first two players start side-by-side, battle for the loose ball (See Loose Ball Drill #10), and the third player follows the play closely communicating their support to whomever wins the ball.  Players should be the 3rd player (support), every 3rd time through the drill on average.