Hockey Tips and Training Methods

Practicing Shooting
Practicing your shooting is one of the most enjoyable parts of hockey.  However, to improve you need to be disciplined and work on those parts of your shooting that are weak. 

It is good idea to periodically inventory your shooting skill.  Take an empty net and use all four shots to hit each of the five holes. Try this from close, medium and long distances.    This will tell you which shots need work.

A common technique to improve a shot is to line up a number of pucks in front of you on the ice.  You then shot each one quickly at a target or a corner of the net.   This techniques allows you to work on the body mechanics of the shot so that you don’t need to think about them during a game.  Elements of your shot to consider as you practice are:

     ·        weight transfer

     ·        grip position and strength

     ·        eye on puck or target

     ·        follow through

You can cut a piece plywood to hang in front of the net which has openings for each of the shooting holes to be used as targets.  Another option is to hang a large can from the front of the net and move it into the position of each of the holes.  This can be more fun and provide positive reinforcement because each time you shoot accurately you get to “ring the bell.” 

If your team has an opportunity to practice between games, you should work on some shooting drills.  These include feeding the defense at the point and having them shoot while the offensive player attempts a tip in. One timers should be a part of this practice.  You should also practice one on none and one on one breaks to improve your close in shooting and deking skills.

You can also work on shooting when ice is not available.  In line nets can be purchased inexpensively and work nicely for practice.  You can use either a regular hockey puck or an inline puck.  We do not recommend inline balls as they have a much different feel than a puck.  You need to find a very smooth surface and if your driveway or sidewalk is not smooth enough put down a piece of plastic or some other smooth material.