Drill Spotlight – Small Ice Games

When you shrink the ice, everything speeds up. Players have less room to operate, tighter passing lanes, and less time to make decisions. That’s why small ice games have become a staple for coaches at every level of hockey.

In NHL Sense Arena, we’ve taken that same concept into the VR world. Small ice games inside the headset put players in fast, high-pressure situations where they have to think, react, and execute without the luxury of open ice.

Why does this matter? Because in real games, the majority of the action happens in tight spaces: battling along the boards, fighting for loose pucks around the crease, or trying to find a teammate in traffic. These are the moments that separate good players from great ones.

With our small ice drills, players can:

• Sharpen quick decision-making – reading defenders and finding options faster.

• Improve puck protection – learning how to shield and move under pressure.

• Develop vision and awareness – spotting open teammates in chaotic moments.

For coaches and parents, the best part is that VR training means players can get these reps anytime, anywhere. No waiting for limited ice slots or hoping drills fit into practice plans.

Small ice games aren’t just about sharpening skills — they build hockey sense in a way that translates directly to live play. Next time your player needs an edge, remember: less ice, more intensity, better results.