From Skating to Game Play: First Step Toward the Ovechkin Cup 🔥

Krasnaya Mashina Junior 2014 completed its first training microcycle: 12 hours on the ice along with a strong focus on off-ice conditioning.

This stage built the foundation — because without it, there is no speed and no results.

The first three-day block was fully focused on skating — the most important skill in hockey. We worked on edge control (inside and outside edges), balance, and body control in turns and direction changes. Every detail mattered, from posture to how the skate blade works on the ice.

Here’s how the training was structured:

Day 1. Fundamentals
We focused on forward and backward skating, keeping the blade on the ice, and changing direction at speed. Players worked on coordination between hands and feet and basic edge control.
Then we added pucks to help players connect skating with puck control, so skills can be used automatically in games.
We finished with shooting drills, adding vision and decision-making.

The day ended with small-area games, where players applied skills under pressure.

Day 2. Building Speed and Control
We made the drills more challenging: quick turns, edge transitions, and explosive start-stop movements — all important for real game situations, especially along the boards.
We also focused on puck control, with stickhandling drills using both hands and movement.
The session included passing and shooting work, followed by competitive small-area games (1-on-1 and 2-on-2).

Day 3. Position-Specific Training
Players worked by position.
Forwards focused on skating, coordination, puck control, and attacking moves. Defensemen worked on backward skating, positioning, and reading the play.

With pucks added, forwards practiced puck protection and offensive skills, while defensemen focused on stick checks and puck recovery.

The day also included small-area games to reinforce skills in game-like situations.

Day 4. Intrasquad game
We finished with a full 5-on-5 game to see how players apply what they learned. This helped us evaluate decision-making, teamwork, and how well skills transfer into real game situations.

The first microcycle set the foundation. Next — more speed, more contact, and higher intensity.

Preparation for the Ovechkin Cup continues.