Puck Control Secrets for Young Players
I thought I’d try something new this month (and I wouldn’t mind trying it again during future months).
Danny, a Mite coach from Southern California wrote me recently and asked if he could contribute to our CoachChic.com format. Of course, I have to be sure all the ideas provided by the guest coach meet our requirements, and I think Danny did just that with what he sent me.
~ Dennis C
Fun Ways to Boost Your Mite Hockey Team’s Puck Control
Hey, coaches, if you’re coaching a Mites-level hockey team, you know how important it is to help your players get better at controlling the puck. Good puck control can make your team stand out on the ice. So here are some creative and fun drills that have worked for me, and they aren’t your usual practice routines. Let’s dive in!
Obstacle Course Drills
Set up a mini obstacle course on the ice with cones, small hurdles, or even sticks. Have your players skate through it while keeping the puck close. This drill is like a video game challenge — it helps them handle the puck better, move faster, and think quick on their skates. Plus, it’s super fun!
Ball and Puck Switch-Up
Try this cool trick: have your players practice with a tennis ball instead of a puck for a bit. A tennis ball is lighter and bounces more, so it forces players to focus extra hard on their stick handling. When they switch back to a puck, it’ll feel so much easier to control. It’s like leveling up their skills!
Mirror Drills
Pair up your players and have them face each other on the ice. One player leads, moving and controlling their puck, while the other tries to copy their every move. This drill teaches kids to keep their heads up, watch their teammate, and still control the puck. It’s like a dance-off but with sticks and pucks!
Silent Hockey
Here’s a unique one: run a practice where players can’t talk at all. No shouting or calling out—just silence. This forces them to pay close attention to the puck and their teammates’ movements. It’s a great way to build focus and learn to “read” the game without relying on words.
Weighted Stick Practice
Every once in a while, let your players practice with slightly heavier sticks. It’s like lifting weights for their stick-handling muscles! When they go back to their regular sticks, controlling the puck will feel smoother and easier. Just don’t overdo it — keep this drill short and fun.
Target Passing
Set up small targets on the boards or ice, like tape marks or cones. Have players practice passing the puck to hit those targets and receiving passes from teammates. This sharpens their accuracy and helps them stay calm with the puck, even when the game gets intense.
Keep It Fun and Exciting
These drills are all about making practice creative and enjoyable. When kids have fun, they stay excited about hockey and want to keep improving. Mix up these activities to keep things fresh, and watch your team’s puck control get better game after game.
Final Thoughts
Coaching a Mites team is all about helping young players grow and love the game. These unique drills can give your team an edge while keeping practices lively. Try them out, cheer on your players, and have a blast on the ice. Go get those pucks, team!
