Ep.42 | Foundations for Defencemen in Youth Hockey *Mini Series Ep.1*
About this episode
Coach Eric Palazzolo discusses foundational strategies for defencemen in youth hockey, focusing on defensive techniques and puck management.
In Episode 2 of this Built From Steel Podcast Mini-Series, Coach Eric continues on the white board with transferable foundations for defencemen, from defending the rush to making decisions with the puck. He focuses on protecting the middle, controlling the gap, defending inside-out, and recognizing that good defence starts with managing time and space rather than chasing every play. He also breaks down defensive-zone responsibilities, puck retrievals, partner support in the neutral zone, and when a defenceman has earned the chance to join the rush. The conversation closes with offensive-zone habits, pinching decisions, and a defence-first approach to faceoffs. Key Moments 3:00 – Defending the rush 9:10 – Gap control and managing attacking space 16:28 – Defending a 2-on-1 19:00 – Defensive-zone coverage responsibilities 23:00 – Defending out of the corners 27:00 – Protecting the front of the net 31:00 – Communicating switches in coverage 34:30 – Puck retrievals 37:00 – Puck management under pressure 40:00 – Neutral-zone responsibilities 40:30 – Using the D-to-D hinge for partner support 45:00 – When to join the rush 47:00 – Offensive-zone positioning 52:00 – Pinching and…
More episodes of Built From Steel Podcast
- Ep.43 | Foundations for Centermen in Youth Hockey *Mini Series Ep.3*
- Ep.41 | Foundations for Wingers in Youth Hockey *Mini Series Ep.1*
- Ep.40 | Youth Hockey Q&A: Ice Time, The Car Ride Home, Phones & Player Confidence
- Ep.39 | 5 Undervalued Qualities of A Great Coach
- Ep.38 | 5 Undervalued Qualities All Hockey Players Need
- Ep.37 | The Key Lessons You Learn Playing Hockey
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