Equipment Needed
- Pucks
- Sticks
A reliable stick matters here
A durable practice stick holds up to the stick-on-stick battle that face-off technique work involves.
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- Two players face off against each other in a proper face-off stance.
- A coach drops the puck (or calls the drop) to start each rep.
Instructions
- Set up in a low, balanced stance with the stick blade ready on the ice and the bottom hand positioned for quick leverage.
- On the drop, react with a quick forehand or backhand pull based on the pre-decided target.
- Follow the win by immediately skating to support the puck rather than standing still.
- Rotate opponents and practice both forehand and backhand draws.
Coaching Points
- Anticipating the drop (without false-starting) is a real skill — watch the official's or coach's hand, not just guess the timing.
- A strong bottom hand grip gives far more control and pull strength than a weak or high grip.
- Decide where the puck is going BEFORE the drop — hesitating after winning the draw often gives the puck right back.
- Winning the draw is only half the job; following up to support the puck completes the play.
Variation
Add wingers to the drill to practice the full face-off unit's support and coverage, or practice specific face-off plays off a clean win.