Jim’s Intro to Stationary Stickhandling
Hi folks, Jim here, the only commentator who once tried to show off stickhandling in place and accidentally missed the puck and sent the stick flying into the penalty box.
What is stationary stickhandling?
Stationary stickhandling is the ability to control the puck in place using quick, precise stick movements. It develops soft hands, hand-eye coordination, and puck feel without the added complexity of skating. Mastering it lays the foundation for every pass, deke, and shot that follows.
How does it work?
Stationary stickhandling focuses on rhythm, control, and body positioning:
- Athletic Stance: Knees bent, weight slightly forward, and hands comfortably apart on the stick.
- Top Hand Leads: The top hand drives most of the movement, allowing the bottom hand to guide without locking up.
- Controlled Movements: Keep the puck within stick length and make smooth side-to-side motions.
- Blade Angle Awareness: Adjust the stick blade slightly to cup the puck and keep control.
- Head Up: Train to look up while handling, relying on feel rather than staring at the puck.
- Consistent Rhythm: Good stickhandling has a natural, quick beat, not jerky or forced.
How do you make good decisions with it?
- Use Stationary Drills as a Base: Build hand speed and comfort here before moving.
- Develop Both Forehand and Backhand: Don’t rely only on your strong side.
- Add Fakes and Pulls: Once comfortable, incorporate puck pulls, toe drags, and quick changes of direction.
- Visual Awareness: Looking up trains game vision, allowing quicker decisions later.
- Stay Relaxed: Tension in the hands kills speed and control.
How do you master it?
Mastering stationary stickhandling requires consistent, focused reps. Players practice at home, in locker rooms, or on synthetic tiles, using golf balls or weighted pucks to develop soft hands. As skill grows, they vary tempo, add fakes, or challenge themselves with obstacle patterns.
What does it look like when done right?
Elite stationary stickhandling looks fast, smooth, and effortless. The puck stays glued to the blade while the player’s eyes scan the ice, ready to pass, shoot, or deke at a moment’s notice.
Commentator’s Corner
Jim’s Take
I’ve seen players turn a living room floor into a training ground. The best stickhandlers start modestly, but their hands end up lightning fast.
Parent Tip
Set up a space for stickhandling practice at home. Even five minutes a day builds serious improvement.
Player Tip
Stay loose, keep your head up, and let your top hand do the work. Smooth control beats frantic movement.
A Final Thought
Stationary stickhandling is where puck control begins. Master it, and every move you make on the ice will feel sharper, quicker, and more natural.
