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For Coaches
TIP #1- Bend Those Knees
Since this is the very first tip, let's start with a basic yet very important
tip. When players skate with a good knee bend they increase their speed,
balance and range of motion. Take a look at the NHL's quickest players such
as Mike Gartner, Paul Coffey and Paul Kariya and you will see they all have
a very deep knee bend when they skate. This knee bend increases power which
results in increased speed. To see how knee bend increases balance perform
this simple test. Tell a friend who is standing to get ready because you
are going to try to push them over. The result will be for them to bend
their knees to get ready. If you want to increase how far you can stick-handle
from side to side then increase knee bend and range of motion will increase
as well. Developing players can work on knee bend on the ice by exaggerating
knee bend and by remaining in the hockey stance with a good knee bend throughout
practice and games. Off-ice drills can include slide boarding and squat
and hop exercises.
TIP #2- Turnovers
At The Blue Lines
One thing coaches like to try to eliminate are turnovers at the blue lines.
What is meant by that is turnovers that occur just before the blueline in
the defensive zone and near either side of the blueline in the offensive
zone. In these areas it is crucial for players to make sure they either
"get the puck out" or "get the puck deep". Take a look
at as you watch the game at how many scoring chances occur because of turnovers
in this area.
TIP #3- Watch
The Puck
This is a great habit for players to develop. Too many times players will
turn and lose sight of the puck. By pivoting, stopping and starting it is
possible for a player to never take their eyes of the puck. lt is a hard
habit to develop but those who know where the puck is at all times gain
greater anticipation, decrease their reaction time and are better at reading
plays.
For
Players
TIP #1- Passing and Shooting:
Feet should be shoulder width apart with knees slightly bent.
Look where the pass or shot is going.
Transfer weight from back leg to front leg.
Roll wrists.
Follow through with your stick blade pointing to the target.
TIP #2- Pass
Receiving
Feet should be shoulder width apart with knees slightly bent.
Keep stick blade on the surface.
Transfer weight from the front leg to back leg when contact is made with
the puck.
Roll wrists.