Pure Defence
Pure Hockey Development
SHIELD’s Elite Defence Program
Pure Defence: Forge the Future of Elite Hockey Defensemen
Build the Backbone of Championship Teams
The Pure Defence Program is tailored to develop the complete modern defenseman, combining advanced technical skills, tactical intelligence, and physical conditioning. Drawing on insights from NHL and PWHL players, we’ve identified the patterns and skills that set elite defensemen apart, equipping you with the tools to dominate both ends of the ice.
Program Highlights
Defensive Mastery: Own the Zone
- Gap Control and Angling: Perfect your ability to close gaps, steer attackers into low-danger areas, and control the pace of the game.
- Stick Placement and Poke Checks: Learn precision techniques to break up plays and recover possession.
- Net-Front Coverage: Master positioning, body control, and stick checks to protect the crease.
- Defensive Zone Breakouts: Enhance your ability to read the play and make quick, effective decisions under pressure.
Offensive Contributions: The Two-Way Defenseman
- Shooting from the Point: Develop tactical shooting to create scoring chances and rebounds.
- Breakout Passing: Improve puck movement with accurate, decisive passes to kickstart the attack.
- Joining the Rush: Learn when and how to step up offensively without sacrificing defensive responsibilities.
- QB on the Power Play: Build the confidence to control the pace, distribute the puck, and take high-quality shots from the blue line.
Skating Skills: Agility and Power
- Lateral Mobility: Enhance your ability to pivot, transition, and change direction fluidly.
- Backward Skating: Build speed, balance, and control for gap closing and defensive recovery.
- Edge Work: Gain confidence in tight turns, quick stops, and maintaining stability under pressure.
- Overspeed Training: Push your skating limits to stay ahead in today’s fast-paced game
Hockey IQ and Game Situations
- Reading Plays: Develop anticipation and awareness to disrupt opposing strategies.
- Defending Odd-Man Rushes: Learn techniques to neutralize attacking advantages.
- Wall Play and Rims: Excel at retrieving, protecting, and moving the puck along the boards.
- Special Teams Awareness: Hone penalty kill positioning and power play contributions.
Physical Presence: Strength and Toughness
- Body Positioning: Use leverage and strength to win battles in the corners and in front of the net.
- Backward Skating: Build speed, balance, and control for gap closing and defensive recovery.
- Shot Blocking: Build the courage and technique to effectively block shots and disrupt scoring chances.
- Injury Prevention: Learn mechanics and conditioning to withstand the physical demands of defensive play.
Building Defensive Strength
Defensive Tactics Mastery
Delve into the intricacies of defensive tactics, learning the art of positioning, stickwork, and tactical decision-making. Develop the instincts to anticipate opponents’ moves and effectively neutralize threats on the ice.
Pro-Inspired Maneuvering Techniques
Harness the expertise of professional defenders as you master the refined edgework and maneuvers that define elite defensive play. Learn to emulate the agility, anticipation, and precision exhibited by pros, refining your skills to dominate the defensive zone.
Offensive Integration Techniques
Explore the seamless integration of defensive play with offensive contributions. Learn to transition fluidly between defensive responsibilities and offensive opportunities, becoming a dynamic force capable of influencing every aspect of the game.
The SHIELD Advantage: From Data to Development
Defend Like the Best: Analytics-Driven Training for Elite Defensemen
Through our work with NHL and PWHL players, we’ve gathered analytics that identify what separates top-tier defensemen. Our program is designed to prepare you for the next step in your career by addressing these benchmarks.
- Position-Specific Training: Focus on the unique responsibilities and skills required for defensemen.
- Pro-Level Coaching: Work with experts who have developed players in the NHL, PWHL, NCAA, and OHL.
AGES 11-15
- Level: REP
- Start Date: February 6th 2025
- End Date: March 27th 2025
- Days: Thursdays
- Start Time: 5:15pm
- End Time: 6:15pm
- Duration: 60 minutes
*Price: $400.00 + HST
AGES 8-10
- Level: BB/MD/A/AA
- Start Date: February 6th 2025
- End Date: March 27th 2025
- Days: Thursdays
- Start Time: 4:15pm
- End Time: 5:15pm
- Duration: 60 minutes
*Price: $400.00 + HST
current Sessions
AGES 8-10
- Level: A/AA/MD/BB
- Start Date: April 24th 2025
- End Date: June 26th 2025
- Days: Thursdays
- Start Time: 5:30pm
- End Time: 6:30pm
- Duration: 60 minutes
*Price: $500.00 + HST
AGES 11-15
- Level: A/AA/AAA
- Start Date: April 24th 2025
- End Date: June 26th 2025
- Days: Thursdays
- Start Time: 4:30pm
- End Time: 5:30pm
- Duration: 60 minutes
*Price: $500.00 + HST
U16-18: ELITE JR/U18
- Start Date: April 24th 2025
- End Date: June 26th 2025
- Days: Thursdays
- Start Time: 3:30pm
- End Time: 4:30pm
- Duration: 60 minutes
Cost: $500.00 + HST
July 3rd- August 28th 2025
AGES 8-10
- Level: A/AA/MD/BB
- Start Date: July 3rd 2025
- End Date: August 28th 2025
- Days: Thursdays
- Start Time: 6:00pm
- End Time: 7:00pm
- Duration: 60 minutes
*Price: $450.00 + HST
AGES 11-15
- Level: A/AA/AAA
- Start Date: July 3rd 2025
- End Date: August 28th 2025
- Days: Thursdays
- Start Time: 5:00pm
- End Time: 6:00pm
- Duration: 60 minutes
*Price: $450.00 + HST
Upcoming Sessions
Sept 4 - Oct 30
AGES 11-15
- Level: (AA/AAA)
- Start Date: Sept 4
- End Date: Oct 30
- Days: Tuesdays
- Start Time: 4:15 PM
- End Time: 5:15 PM
- Duration: 60 minutes
*Price: $450.00 + HST
Prepare for the Next Level of Your Career
Become the Backbone of Champions: Join the Pure Defence Program Today!
Defense wins championships. Whether your goal is to anchor a college team, compete in junior leagues, or take your place on the professional stage, the Pure Defence Program will help you develop into a cornerstone player.
Take control of your future and establish yourself as the backbone of any team with the Pure Defence Program.
Sign Up Now to elevate your defensive game and make your mark on the ice!