Hockey Drills For 12 Year Olds
Hockey is a fast-paced and exciting sport that requires skill, discipline, and teamwork. For 12-year-olds, it is important to develop their hockey skills and build confidence on the ice. By practicing different drills, they can improve their stickhandling, passing, shooting, skating, and other essential skills. In this article, we will explore some of the best hockey drills for 12-year-olds that are both fun and challenging.
1. Stickhandling Drills
Stickhandling is one of the most important skills in hockey. It allows players to maintain control of the puck while skating and maneuvering around defenders. For 12-year-olds, stickhandling drills should focus on improving their hand-eye coordination and stickhandling techniques.
One effective drill is the "cone drill," which involves setting up a series of cones or other obstacles in a straight line. Players must skate through the line while keeping the puck close to their stick and maneuvering around each cone. Another popular stickhandling drill is the "figure-eight," which involves skating around two cones in a figure-eight pattern while keeping the puck close to the stick.
2. Passing Drills
Passing is another essential skill in hockey. It allows players to move the puck quickly and accurately to their teammates. For 12-year-olds, passing drills should focus on improving their accuracy, timing, and decision-making skills.
A classic passing drill is the "five-man weave," which involves five players skating in a predetermined pattern while passing the puck back and forth. Another effective drill is the "pass and shoot," which involves two players passing the puck back and forth while one player skates towards the net to receive a pass and take a shot.
3. Shooting Drills
Shooting is one of the most exciting aspects of hockey. It allows players to score goals and help their team win games. For 12-year-olds, shooting drills should focus on improving their accuracy, power, and technique.
One effective shooting drill is the "stationary target practice," which involves setting up targets in different areas of the net and having players take shots from various angles. Another popular shooting drill is the "breakaway challenge," which involves one player skating towards the net while the goalie tries to stop the shot.
4. Skating Drills
Skating is the foundation of hockey. It allows players to move quickly and effectively around the ice. For 12-year-olds, skating drills should focus on improving their speed, agility, and balance.
One effective skating drill is the "ladder drill," which involves skating through a series of cones set up in a ladder pattern. Another popular skating drill is the "cutback drill," which involves skating backwards towards the blue line, turning around, and then skating forwards towards the net.
5. Small-Sided Games
Small-sided games are a fun and effective way to improve hockey skills and build teamwork. They allow players to practice their skills in a game-like setting and develop their decision-making abilities.
One popular small-sided game is "3-on-3," which involves three players from each team playing on a smaller rink. Another effective small-sided game is "keep away," which involves one team trying to maintain possession of the puck while the other team tries to steal it.
By practicing these hockey drills for 12-year-olds, players can improve their skills and build confidence on the ice. It is important to remember that hockey is a team sport, and that working together with teammates is essential for success. With hard work and dedication, 12-year-olds can become skilled and successful hockey players.
