Stick Handling

Master the Art of Stick Handling: Your Key to Hockey Success

Welcome to our first 'Hockey Skills Spotlight' post! At Elite Diamond Ice Hockey Academy, we believe that mastering fundamental skills is crucial for success on the ice. Today, we're diving into one of the most essential skills in hockey: stick handling.

Why Stick Handling Matters: Stick handling is the foundation of puck control. It allows players to maintain possession, evade defenders, and create scoring opportunities. Whether you're a Rising Star just starting out or a Champions Academy player aiming for the next level, improving your stick handling can significantly elevate your game.

Key Techniques:

1. Proper Grip: Hold the stick with your top hand at the end of the shaft and your bottom hand about 8-10 inches lower. This grip allows for maximum control and flexibility.

2. Soft Hands: Keep your hands relaxed. Tension in your hands can limit your ability to make quick, fluid movements with the puck.

3. Head Up: Practice handling the puck without looking down. This skill is crucial for maintaining awareness of your surroundings on the ice.

4. Use Your Body: Incorporate your body position to shield the puck from defenders. This technique is especially useful for our Intermediate Hockey Training players as they begin to face more competitive situations.

Practice Drills:

• Stationary Figure 8s: Move the puck in a figure-8 pattern around your feet. Start slow and gradually increase your speed.
• Obstacle Course: Set up cones or water bottles and practice weaving through them while maintaining control of the puck.
• Off-Ice Practice: Use a golf ball or street hockey ball to practice stick handling off the ice. This can help improve hand-eye coordination and is a great way to continue skill development even when you're not at the rink.

Coach Chris's Tip: Remember, consistency is key. Even just 5-10 minutes of focused stick handling practice each day can lead to significant improvements over time. At Elite Diamond, we incorporate stick handling drills into every session to ensure our players are constantly honing this crucial skill.

Mastering stick handling takes time and dedication, but the payoff is immense. As you improve your puck control, you'll find yourself more confident on the ice, better able to create plays, and ultimately, a more valuable player to your team.

Stay tuned for next week's 'Hockey Skills Spotlight' where we'll break down essential skating techniques!