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10U Underhandling Drill

08/29/2015, 3:00pm MDT
By USA Hockey

Purpose: This drill works on basic puck-control skills with a twist -- it forces players to move their body around the puck. The mechanics of this drill also emphasize ready positioning by keeping the puck in an immediate passing or shooting position.

Drill Mechanics: The player carries the puck around the tires, keeping the puck on the forehand the entire time. The puck is not allowed to touch the backhand side of the stick blade. The player finishes the drill with a shot on goal.

Coaching Points: Turning away from the player's strong side should be relatively easy on the forehand, while turning toward the player's strong side can be more difficult for young players. To turn toward the player's strong side, the skater must move his or her feet ahead of the puck and keep the top hand on the stick pushed forward, away from the body. Also, after carrying the puck around the tires, don't let the players stickhandle (dust off the puck) before they shoot. The puck is already on the forehand and in shooting position. Make them keep their eyes up and find a target.

Equipment: Three tires placed inside the face-off circle.

Comments: This drill helps players learn to control the puck more effectively in shooting and passing situations. Keep the number of players involved to six or fewer so that the repetitions remain high. While this drill is very basic in its setup, it can be valuable (and challenging) for older age players as well.

Tag(s): Drill of the Month