Mastering the Art of Passing in Ice Hockey

Passing is a fundamental skill in ice hockey, vital for creating scoring opportunities, maintaining puck possession, and fostering teamwork. This guide will help young players understand the essentials of passing, including techniques, what makes a good pass, and practice drills to improve their skills.

1. The Importance of Passing
   • Teamwork: Passing allows teams to move the puck efficiently, break defensive setups, and create scoring chances.
   • Puck Control: Accurate passing helps avoid turnovers and maintain game momentum.
   • Scoring Opportunities: Effective passes often lead to high-quality shots on goal, increasing the chances of scoring.

1. Basic Passing Techniques
2. 1. Forehand Pass
   • Stance: Position your bottom hand at the middle of your stick, and stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
   • Puck Control: Keep the puck slightly in front of your body.
   • Stick Motion: Sweep the puck towards your target, shifting your weight from your back foot to your front foot. Follow through by pointing your stick blade where you want the puck to go.
3. 2. Backhand Pass
   • Stance: Similar to the forehand pass, but use the back of your stick blade.
   • Puck Control: Keep the puck close to your body.
   • Stick Motion: Push the puck forward using the backhand, transferring your weight from back to front. Follow through in the direction of the pass.
4. 3. Saucer Pass
   • Technique: Use a flicking motion to lift the puck slightly off the ice to pass over sticks or other obstacles.
   • Puck Control: Cup the puck and follow through with a slight upward motion for a controlled landing on your teammate's stick.

1. Characteristics of a Good Pass
   • Accuracy: The puck should reach your teammate's stick directly.
   • Timing: Release the puck at the right moment so your teammate can receive it in stride.
   • Speed: The pass should be firm enough to avoid interception but manageable for your teammate to control.
   • Communication: Verbally and visually signal your intentions to help teammates anticipate the pass.

1. Practice Drills
   • Wall Passing: Pass the puck against a wall to practice accuracy and control.
   • Partner Passing: Work with a teammate on both forehand and backhand passes, starting close and gradually increasing distance.
   • Triangle Passing: Form a triangle with two teammates and pass in sequence, changing direction and moving to different points.
   • 2-on-1 Drills: Practice passing under defensive pressure to improve decision-making and timing.

1. Final Tips
   • Always be ready to receive a pass with your stick on the ice.
   • Communicate with teammates to ensure effective puck movement.
   • Watch professional players to learn advanced techniques and strategies.

Mastering passing in ice hockey requires dedication to practice and a focus on fundamentals. By developing these skills, young players can significantly enhance their performance and contribute to their team's success. Keep practicing, stay focused, and enjoy the game!

See you at the rink!
Coach Dave