stickhandling

Stickhandling is the skill of controlling a hockey or field hockey stick to maneuver a puck or ball during play. It is a core ability in ice hockey, field hockey, floorball, and other stick-and-ball sports, enabling players to maintain possession, change direction, and create scoring opportunities. Effective stickhandling relies on precise blade control, quick wrist and forearm movement, good body positioning, and head-up awareness.

Key elements of stickhandling include grip, stance, hand placement, and blade control. The top hand guides the stick while the bottom hand provides stability and power. A relaxed grip facilitates fast wrist action, keeping the puck close to the blade and protecting it with the body when challenged. Players use both forehand and backhand handling, along with dekes, fakes, and rapid stick movements, to outmaneuver opponents. Common training drills include tight-control patterns, figure eights, and toe drags to develop touch, speed, and decision-making.

Tactically, stickhandling supports puck progression, transition play, and space creation. It is trained in conjunction with skating, shooting, and passing, with emphasis on keeping the head up, reading defenders, and choosing when to pass, shoot, or deke. Equipment factors such as stick shaft stiffness, blade curve, and overall weight influence control and release. Safety considerations include avoiding excessive stick swinging and protecting others on the ice or field.

While most closely associated with ice hockey and field hockey, stickhandling concepts apply to other sports using sticks or bats, with technique adapted to equipment and rules.