The Best U9 Skating Drills

Introduction

This tutorial provides a series of effective skating drills specifically designed for U9 hockey players. These drills aim to enhance skating skills, improve technique, and build confidence on the ice. Whether you’re a coach or a parent, these exercises will help young players develop essential skating abilities.

Step 1: Warm-Up Routine

Before starting any skating drills, it’s important to warm up properly to prevent injuries and prepare the body for physical activity.

• Dynamic Stretching: Incorporate movements like arm circles, leg swings, and torso twists.
• On-Ice Warm-Up: Have players skate around the rink at a gentle pace, focusing on smooth, controlled movements.
• Introduce Basic Movements: Encourage players to practice starting, stopping, and turning while warming up.

Step 2: Forward Skating Drill

This drill focuses on mastering the forward skating technique, which is fundamental for all hockey players.

Basic Forward Skating

• Start with feet shoulder-width apart.
• Push off from one foot while gliding on the other.
• Alternate feet while maintaining a low center of gravity.
• Practice: Have players skate in a straight line, focusing on strong pushes and maintaining balance.

Step 3: Backward Skating Drill

Backward skating is crucial for defense and should be practiced regularly.

Basic Backward Skating

• Players should turn their hips and shoulders to face the opposite direction.
• Use small, quick strides while keeping the knees bent.
• Practice: Set up cones for players to skate backward around, emphasizing control and agility.

Step 4: C-Cuts Drill

C-cuts are essential for improving acceleration and direction changes.

How to Perform C-Cuts

• Start in a standing position with one foot slightly in front of the other.
• Push outwards in a "C" shape with the inside edge of the skate.
• Alternate feet, practicing both left and right C-cuts.
• Practice: Set up a course with cones to navigate through while performing C-cuts.

Step 5: Agility and Stopping Drill

Agility is crucial for maneuvering on the ice, and stopping techniques are vital for safety.

Agility Course Setup

• Place cones in a zig-zag pattern.
• Players should skate through the cones, focusing on quick changes of direction.

Stopping Practice

• Teach players the snowplow stop and T-stop techniques.
• Allow them to practice stopping at the end of the agility course.

Step 6: Game Simulation

Incorporate drills into a game-like scenario to apply skills learned.

• Small Area Games: Set up small-sided games to encourage players to use their skating skills in a competitive environment.
• Focus on Skills: Remind players to utilize forward and backward skating, stopping, and agility throughout the game.

Conclusion

By regularly practicing these skating drills, U9 players will improve their fundamental skating skills, which are essential for their development in hockey. Make sure to maintain a fun and encouraging atmosphere during practices. For continued improvement, consider integrating these drills into each practice session and tracking player progress over time.