Five Tips to Playing Defence in Hockey

If you like those bone crunching checks and physical play then playing defence is for you. A good defenseman is always in the right position, is patient and has great timing. You need to be able to control both the neutral and the defensive zones of the ice. Playing tough along the boards and winning those battles for the puck requires grit, determination and hard work. Of course, making that great break out pass from the defensive end and jumping into the rush is always fun and exhilarating too.

Here are five tips to playing defence in hockey:

1. Always try to stay between the forward and the net keeping your hockey stick out in front of you. Don't watch the puck, keep your eyes on the opponent's hips instead and always try to force them to the outside. Anticipate the pass.

2. Control the Gap. The "gap" is the space between you and the oncoming forward. A gap too big will allow the forward to cut to the inside, too narrow and he can get around you if you miss the check. Allow about 2 stick lengths for the gap. Keep your stick close to your body, tricking the forward into thinking the gap is larger than it is.

3. One of the most critical aspects of playing defence is controlling the front of the net. Most goals are scored from this, the slot area. Keep your body between the player in the slot and the goal. Face the play and try to tie up his stick by keeping your stick over top of his. All the time this struggle is going on be sure not to screen your goalie.

4. Keep your stick on the ice and use your feet. Your stick is doing you no good if you are carrying it too high. It takes too much time to bring it into play to intercept a pass or break up a rush. Also, your feet can be used as a second or third stick. Use them to move the puck along the boards or to make a pass when your stick is tied up. Practice playing soccer to become more adept with your feet.

5. As a defenseman you won't be able to prevent every shot on net but it is your job to prevent or limit the quality chances. Your opponent is the greatest threat when positioned between the face-off circles. Force them to the outside away from this area and try to get them to their backhand (their weak) side. Once they are in a side lane their chance for a quality shot is greatly reduced.

Remember, as a defenseman you are part of a team and you can't play the game of hockey by yourself. Always communicate with your defensive partner, forwards and goalie while on the ice. Know where your team mates and your opponents are at all times. Keep your head on a "swivel" and have a 360 degree view. Following these five tips to playing defence in hockey will help you and your team to success