Stationary Stickhandling Figure-8
Puck Handling
Legend
- player
- cones
- ball
- movement path
How it works
Build basic stickhandling coordination by moving a puck in a figure-8 pattern around two cones while standing still.
What you need
- hockey stick
- puck
- two cones
- ice
Your focus
Stationary stickhandling allows young players to focus entirely on hand coordination and blade control without the complexity of skating. The figure-8 pattern develops soft hands and bilateral hand coordination , the forehand and backhand touch needed for all future puck handling. Mastering this simple pattern creates the wrist and hand foundation for more complex moves.
Place two cones 2 feet apart on the ice.
Player stands over the cones and stickhandles the puck in a figure-8 pattern around them.
Keep the puck moving continuously; don't let it stop.
Run for 30 seconds on, 15 seconds rest; repeat 4 times.
Goal
You've got it when the puck keeps moving in a smooth figure-8 without stopping, left side, right side, back and forth, no bobbles.
Helpful cues
- Soft hands, cup the puck, don't slap it
- Both forehand and backhand, it should feel equal both ways
- Eyes up, try to look forward while you stickhandle
Adjust the challenge
Make it easier
Strip it back
Use a larger ball and wider cones for easier control on the first set.
UpLVL it
Add the next challenge
Add movement, slowly skate forward while continuing the figure-8 pattern.No account needed
Build a practice plan
Add drills, keep the plan in this browser, then share a link with your staff or parents.This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.
This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.After every practice, UpLVL automatically surfaces the drills each player needs to work on most. See it for yourself.