When developing the power play, the coach must go through several steps including selecting a formation, describing the skills necessary for each position, slotting players into positions, developing drills to practice the skills, and finally allowing players to offer input as they mature and possibly select their own options within the framework. Most coaches go through these steps before the season starts after they know the makeup of the team. As a coach, you should follow these steps and review them from time to time as your lineup changes or when you are looking for improvements.

Select a formation. We will discuss three formations in this chapter. Identify which formation is suited for the abilities of the players available to you. Certain players are more suited to execute one formation better than another. The differentiating factor is usually the skill level and how good they are at passing, seeing the ice, and shooting off the pass....