Step 1: Properly grip the stick
The first step in correctly using a stick is to grip it properly. A common mistake made by beginners is to hold the stick too tightly. Gripping the stick too tightly can lead to muscle fatigue and poor ball control.
To grip the stick correctly, place your dominant hand at the top of the stick, just below the knob. Your fingers should be loosely wrapped around the stick, and your thumb should be resting on the top of the stick. Your non-dominant hand (known as the guide hand in hockey) should be placed slightly below the halfway point of the stick shaft. The guide hand should have a slightly firmer grip than the dominant hand.
Step 2: Find the proper balance point
The balance point of the stick is the spot where the weight is evenly distributed on both sides of the shaft. To find the balance point, hold the stick near the head with your dominant hand and slowly move your hand down the shaft until you find the point where the stick feels balanced.
It is crucial to find the balance point because it will help you control the stick and improve your overall stick handling skills.
Step 3: Use proper body position
Once you have a proper grip on the stick, you need to focus on your body position. Your body position should be athletic and balanced. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, and your knees should be slightly bent. Keep your head up and your eyes focused on the ball or puck.
Step 4: Practice stick handling drills
Now that you have learned the proper grip and body position, it’s time to put it into practice. The best way to improve your stick handling skills is to practice. There are many stick handling drills you can try, such as:
– Figure 8’s: Place a small cone or obstacle on the ground and maneuver the ball or puck around it in a figure 8 pattern.
– One-handed stick handling: Practice stick handling with only your dominant hand, then switch to your guide hand.
– Cone dribble: Set up a series of cones and dribble the ball or puck between them.
– Elbow-to-elbow: Stand facing a partner and pass the ball or puck back and forth, keeping your elbows close to your body.
Step 5: Properly use the stick during a game
Now that you have practiced your stick handling skills, you need to know how to use them in a game situation. Proper stick use is crucial in avoiding penalties and properly executing maneuvers.
When using the stick, keep it low to the ground, and use short, quick movements. Avoid swinging the stick wildly to avoid penalties such as slashing or high-sticking.
In hockey, a proper stick can also help you block shots and properly execute a poke check. When blocking shots, angle the stick blade towards the shooter and use your body to absorb the impact of the ball or puck. When executing a poke check, aim the blade of the stick towards the ball or puck and use a quick jabbing motion to knock it away from the opponent.
In conclusion, proper grip and use of a stick are not just important for performance but also for avoiding penalties and injuries. Remember to grip the stick loosely, find the proper balance point, use proper body position, practice stick handling drills, and properly use the stick during a game situation. With time and practice, you can improve your stick handling skills and become a more valuable player on the field or ice.