This video explains how to knock down pucks out of the air, which is a valuable skill for handling bad passes or making plays in tight areas.
Coaching Points:
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Purpose of Knocking Down Pucks: This skill is useful for controlling bad passes, handling rebounds, or intercepting saucer passes in tight situations. The aim is to get the puck down quickly and into a manageable position to create a shot or make a pass.
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Proper Technique: When knocking down a puck, focus on keeping your stick below shoulder height to avoid high-sticking. Gently guide the puck down with a soft touch to keep it close to you and avoid it bouncing away.
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Practice Drills:
- Partner Drill: One player chips or saucer passes pucks to a partner, who tries to knock them down. Players can alternate turns and count how many successful knockdowns they achieve.
- Game Situations: Integrate this skill into game-like scenarios, such as a one-on-one or two-on-one drill. After a shot is taken, the coach can pass the puck into the zone, and the player knocks it down and quickly shoots or makes a pass.
- Monkey in the Middle: Have three players positioned in a line. The middle player tries to intercept passes from one end player to the other. If they succeed, they switch spots.
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Control and Positioning: Once the puck is knocked down, the objective is to control it in a way that you can quickly shoot or pass. Focus on keeping the puck in your shooting box or passing zone.
Practicing this skill will improve a player’s ability to handle difficult passes and create offensive opportunities, especially in front of the net.
