What's up guys! Just got into weplay, and getting to know all the functions... so here's a test blog post of a recent video i shot. I was trying to embed the vid, but haven't figured out how yet :) Anyways, this is just a test post anyways, so I'll just post the youtube link here: Hockey Plyometrics

Although this post is focused on helping beginners, a lot of experienced players make these same mistakes. I'd love to pretend I'm not guilty of these offenses, but let's just say it doesn't hurt to have a friendly reminder.

Keeping the Head Down

Players who aren't used to the feeling of a puck on the end of their stick have a tendency to look down to make sure it's still there. While stick-handling is important, it's still secondary to being able to move the puck well. Think about it: the puck will always be the fastest moving and most maneuverable object on the ice. If a player's eyes are constantly checking on the puck he will miss what is happening around him.  On the other hand, a player with his head up can survey the scene; he can avoid defenders, see open teammates, and take cues from the goalie. A player who can set up passes will be a much better asset to his team than someone who can skate fast and execute fancy toe drags.

Giving Up After Getting Burned

New players are bound to let an opponent slip by at some point, it happens. The real problem occurs when  the defender doesn't pursue the puck after getting beat. Teammates tend to be more understanding if a solid effort is made to retrieve the puck after losing it. It may take time for a player to develop speed and cornering, but he can show hustle from day one. Many times a player's persistence pays off, and he is able to regain possession of the puck.  In addition, a sense of personal pride is felt when a player is able to redeem himself.

Holding the Stick Too High From the Ground

One of the most basic fundamentals of hockey is keeping the stick down on the ice. When it's there passes are easier to receive, quick shots are easier to execute, and those playing defense are more likely to intercept the puck. Hockey is a fast paced sport where every second counts. Sometimes the time it takes to bring the stick from the knees to the ice is enough to miss an opportunity. A blade on the ice also helps hockey players stay low and maintain proper posture.

Getting Caught Out of Position

Each player on a team has a responsibly and teammates need to be able to count on one another.  Part of being dependable means being at the right place at the right time. When defending, sometimes just putting a body on an opponent or hitting his stick up is enough to stop him. Even those who aren't strong shooters find goal scoring opportunities when camping out in front of the goal; some of the best assists are provided courtesy the goalie's pads.  One of the best ways a player can help his teammates is by always providing a passing option.

Watching Passes to Make Sure They Connect

It is not necessary to wait around to admire a perfect pass or watch nervously to see if a shaky pass connects. Most beginners can skate  a lot faster when they don't have the puck, so cutting to an open area is often a good option immediately after dishing the puck. Remember, when passing to a player who is moving, make sure to lead them. Pass to where he will be, not to where is at present.

Turning Away From the Offense

In most circumstance it is not natural to face an object flying right at you, but this is hockey. Shinguards and a cup are worn to protect the front of the body. When players turn their back to a shot, it leaves their calves and thighs vulnerable to abuse. Most importantly though, their eyes are taken off the play. The best bet is to face the shooter and take a puck to the shins or block it with the stick.  A puck bouncing of these surfaces will be the most predictable, and often result in an easy turn over.

Carrying the Puck Too Far From the Body

Players who are still developing their stick handling skills can prevent the puck from being stolen. Keeping the body between the puck and the defender is a great way to maintain possession. By using the body as a shield a defender will be boxed out to the point he is unable to make a steal.. Too many rookies hang the puck a few feet out from their body, making it easy for a defender to slap it away. The only thing a defender should be able to see is the name on the back of the jersey. And remember, body contact is OK!

Clearing the Puck In Front of the Home Goal

A player should never dump the puck in front of his own goal. It is the tendency of some beginners to get nervous and dump the puck without even looking to see who they are passing it to. They may think this is better than the alternative, but often  a member of the opposing team is center ice in front of the goal, ready to receive the puck. An assist to the other team is much worse than a turn over.

hi, testing 1,2,3

Hey everyone, I have been shooting a lot of hockey tip videos over the past few weeks to add to my blog. I hope that a few of you have been able to pick up some tips from my articles and videos. The next thing that I want to work on is the accuracy of your wrist shot. I think that the first thing every player should work on is the accuracy of their shot. There is no point in shooting 100mph if you can not aim. So here is a little video I made, this shows me sniping a few shots and also invites you to subscribe to my youtube videos to learn some more about hockey. Check out my wrist shot accuracy video on youtube, and don't forget to subscribe :D

You can also subscribe to my hockey tips articles on our website!

Anyhow, I wanted to answer another question sent to me from a Weplay hockey fan. 

Julie, What was your most memorable youth sports moment?

Playing in the Peewee Quebec hockey tournament in Quebec City, Quebec when I was turning 13. It was like a mini Olympics. Teams from all around the world came to compete at the old Quebec Nordiques arena. I played for the Junior Rangers and made it to the finals and won that division and then we competed in the crossovers for the whole tournament. The arena was sold out so we were playing in front of 15,000 fans and it was unbelievable. The first time I stepped on the ice, I had so much nervous energy and excitement, it was overwhelming the magnitude, but it was calming because you're there with your teammates sharing in the experience together. I definitely had the jitters though and was staring in the crowds for a while. Growing up a lot of times I would get asked to play and I would just for fun and then all these amazing opportunities started to present themselves.

Are you trying to perfect your wrist shot? Take a look at the tips I have included below to make your wrist shot even better! If you are new at hockey or just learning you can read my article how to take a wrist shot. I am always adding articles, hockey videos and hockey tips to my website   

Wrist Shot Tips

What are the 3 most important aspects of a wrist shot?

1. The Accuracy of your shote
2. The speed of your shot
3. The release time of your shot

A lot of kids just try to get the hardest wrist shot, or the hardest slapshot that they can, but this is not the right way to learn. You should practice getting the most accurate shot you can first, then work on your power. What good it a 70 MPH wrist shot if you can never hit the net?

After you have good accuracy, you should work on your power. A few things that make you wrist shot faster is the flex in your stick (make sure your stick is right for you) how strong you are, and how good your technique is. To get a great wrist shot you should be pulling back with your top hand, while pushing fowards with your bottom hand. The wrist shot can be tricky so I will not explain it all here, but I have covered this in another article on my website

The next thing you need to do is perfect your release time. Practice getting the shot off quickly, the slower you are, the more time the goalie has to get into position to stop you. Practice shooting at full speed, without breaking your stride. Also try snaping pucks at the net while a friend passes them to you.

You can check out my How to take a wrist shot video on youtube for some more tips

Hey everyone-

I am getting pumped for our game against Sweden in the Semifinals today. This is what we have been preparing for, and I know we are all ready to play our best. This game will bring us one step closer to the gold medal.

Anyways, Another special Weplayer asked me a question that I wanted to answer.

Julie, Discuss what you learned and took away most from your youth sports experiences, how did it help you in life?

I have been involved in youth sports since kindergarten. I was always a team sport athlete and truly believe being part of a team, communicating with others and learning how to get along with others are important lessons from playing sports growing up. I always enjoyed the camaraderie, telling stories with your teammates, and hanging out with your teammates in the locker room. The team atmosphere as a kid was incredible, and it made me really enjoy and want to continue to improve.

Julie