This video emphasizes the importance of proper hand positioning and puck control during stickhandling, ensuring the puck remains in a strong position close to the body for shooting, passing, or deceptive plays.
Coaching Points:
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Top Hand Control: Use your top hand as the primary control for turning the blade, ensuring smooth movements during stickhandling and quick transitions to shooting or passing.
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Bottom Hand Power: Rely on your bottom hand to provide power for stronger shots and passes after making moves with the puck.
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Cupping the Puck: Maintain consistent control by cupping the puck on both forehand and backhand, rolling your wrist to keep the blade properly angled.
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Strong Positioning: Always bring the puck back to a "ready" area near your body, where it’s protected and accessible for immediate plays.
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Avoid Overextension: Keep the puck close to your body to reduce vulnerability to defenders and enhance control during tight situations.
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Game-Like Focus: Practice with a mindset of game scenarios, keeping the puck in areas that allow quick shots, passes, or deceptive manoeuvres.
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Adapt to Equipment: Whether using a puck, tennis ball, or synthetic ice, focus on technique over equipment, ensuring proper execution regardless of the training environment.
Practicing these fundamentals will enhance control, improve in-game decision-making, and build confidence in puck handling under pressure.
