Examples of Stickhandling Drills for Advanced Players

Enhance your game with these advanced stickhandling drills designed for hockey players looking to elevate their skills.
By Taylor

Introduction

Stickhandling is a crucial skill for any hockey player, especially at advanced levels. It allows players to maneuver the puck effectively, evade defenders, and create scoring opportunities. In this guide, we’ll explore three advanced stickhandling drills designed to refine your skills and improve your overall gameplay. Let’s dive in!

1. The Figure Eight Drill

Context

The Figure Eight Drill is an excellent way to develop quick hands and improve your puck control while moving in tight spaces. This drill focuses on agility and coordination, which are essential for advanced players.

To set up, you’ll need two cones placed about 4-5 feet apart. The goal is to maneuver the puck in a figure-eight pattern around the cones.

While performing the drill, keep your knees bent and your head up to simulate game-like conditions. This will help you develop the ability to maintain puck control while being aware of your surroundings.

Example

  1. Position two cones on the ice about 4-5 feet apart.
  2. Start with the puck at one cone and skate towards the other, using a tight figure-eight motion.
  3. As you approach the second cone, switch the puck to your backhand and then back to your forehand as you transition back to the first cone.
  4. Repeat this motion, focusing on keeping your body low and your hands quick.

Notes

  • To increase difficulty, add a defender to simulate pressure.
  • You can also vary the distance between the cones for a greater challenge.

2. The Obstacle Course Drill

Context

The Obstacle Course Drill is designed to enhance your stickhandling skills under pressure while navigating through various obstacles. This drill helps develop your ability to control the puck when faced with challenges, just like in a game situation.

Set up a series of cones or other objects (like pucks or sticks) in a zigzag pattern across a section of the rink.

Example

  1. Place 6-8 cones in a zigzag pattern, spaced about a stick length apart.
  2. Start at one end of the course with the puck.
  3. Skate towards the first cone and practice moving the puck from forehand to backhand as you weave through the cones.
  4. Focus on keeping the puck close to your stick and maintaining speed as you navigate through the obstacles.
  5. Once you reach the last cone, make a hard push to the net and take a shot.

Notes

  • For added complexity, alternate between using your forehand and backhand.
  • Time yourself to create a competitive element and track your progress.

3. The Puck Protection Drill

Context

The Puck Protection Drill emphasizes the importance of shielding the puck from opponents while stickhandling. This is essential for an advanced player who needs to maintain possession under pressure. By practicing this drill, you’ll develop better puck protection techniques and improve your overall stickhandling ability.

You will need a partner for this drill to simulate defensive pressure.

Example

  1. Have your partner stand a few feet away from you as you begin with the puck.
  2. Start skating with the puck, and as you do, your partner will attempt to poke check or steal the puck.
  3. Focus on using your body to shield the puck while stickhandling with quick, controlled movements.
  4. Try to maintain puck possession for as long as possible while moving in different directions.
  5. Switch roles after a set time, allowing both players to practice their puck protection skills.

Notes

  • Use a variety of stickhandling moves to keep your partner guessing.
  • Incorporate sudden stops and changes in direction to mimic real-game situations.