This is a defensive stickwork drill for developing through advanced players that builds quicker, more controlled checks by improving stick speed, coordination, and comfort moving the stick through different checking patterns.
SET UP
Pair two players together, with one player acting as the offensive “dummy” without a stick and holding their hands out in front to create a target area. The defender starts in a balanced athletic stance and works through four stick patterns around the hands: an M motion over the outside and between the gloves, a W motion underneath and between the gloves, figure eights around the hands, and circles alternating over and underneath each hand. Begin stationary so players can learn each pattern with control. Once comfortable, progress to having both players move in a straight line down and back while the coach calls out different patterns, forcing the defender to coordinate their stick movement with their feet while maintaining good defensive posture.
COACHING POINTS & PRINCIPLES
- Short, Quick Checks: Focus on stick speed and placement rather than big windups—keep the movements tight, controlled, and around the hands.
- Maintain Your Stance: Stay balanced with knees bent, chest up, back straight, and weight on the balls of the feet even as the stick moves quickly.
- Build Movement Variety: The patterns aren’t necessarily checks players will throw exactly in a game; they develop muscle memory and stick control so defenders are more comfortable executing different checks when opportunities appear.
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