This video outlines the progression for teaching a snapshot, focusing on proper hand positioning, body mechanics, and puck control to help players effectively use the shot in games.
Coaching Points:
- Body and Hand Positioning: Ensure players maintain a good hockey stance with hands away from the body, creating space for the shot, while the top hand should be held as if someone were in a headlock.
- Puck on the Toe: Teach players to start the puck on the toe of the blade, pulling it into the middle of the blade for optimal power and accuracy on the release.
- Footwork Variety: Practice shooting off both the front and back foot, as different situations in a game require versatility in foot positioning.
- Minimal Wind-up: Emphasize a quick pull and snap motion with the puck close to the body to prevent goalies from reading the shot and to release quickly.
- Cradle and Cup: When receiving a pass, teach players to cradle the puck and cup the blade, ensuring a quick and smooth transition to the shot.
- Progression and Deception: Once the fundamentals are mastered, add movement to the shot and incorporate deceptive elements, like pulling the puck or faking a shot, to challenge goaltenders.
