Skills & Drills: Defensive Stickwork

Checking: One of the most basic and effective forms of defensive stickwork is checking, where you use your stick to dislodge the ball from your opponent’s stick. Mastering different types of checks—such as the poke check, slap check, and lift check—will allow you to be more disruptive on defense.

Deflecting Passes: Use your stick to deflect incoming passes. Being able to intercept or disrupt passes without leaving yourself open to a quick counterattack is key to effective defense.

Body Positioning: Proper body positioning combined with stickwork is essential. Always keep your body between the ball and the goal, using your stick to either knock the ball away or keep it from getting into dangerous passing lanes.

Checking the Hands: Instead of focusing solely on the ball, aim your stick at your opponent’s hands. This forces them to adjust their grip, making it harder for them to maintain control of the ball and easier for you to make a successful check.

• Stay Balanced: Good stickwork relies on your ability to stay balanced and in control. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and bend your knees to lower your center of gravity. This will give you the stability you need to execute checks and deflections effectively.
• Use Your Body: Don’t just rely on your stick. Use your body to position yourself between the attacker and the goal, while your stick disrupts the ball or pass. Combining stickwork with body positioning makes you a more complete defender.

• Be Patient: Avoid lunging at your opponent’s stick or the ball. Be patient, stay in your stance, and wait for the right moment to check or deflect the ball. This will help you avoid unnecessary fouls and maintain better control over the ball.
• Read the Offense: Anticipate where the ball is going and position your stick to either intercept a pass or block a shot. Understanding the offensive player’s tendencies will help you make smarter decisions and create more turnovers.