Stops and Starts is a great drill for introducing stops as a change in direction. Have players come to a full stop then rotate their head and shoulders towards their new trajectory.
Description
Coach draws lines on the ice to designate starting point for the players and places 4 cones in front of the line. 2 cones staggered and a far in line with the line.
Players line up behind the starting line and skate to the first cone performing a stop before moving onto the next cone.
Once the player has stopped in both directions they skate around the far cone and return to line.
Once a player is past the second cone the next player may go.
Key Points
Load edges with pressure by bending knees and dropping hips slightly.
“Snow plow” or point toes towards each other to initiate loading inside edge.
Use leg strength to push down on the ice and scrape.
Encourage players to make snow by stopping.
