Trapping Penalty Corner

Today, we’re going to focus on an often underestimated but crucial skill in hockey: trapping the ball during penalty corners. Trapping the ball effectively is essential for providing a clean and dead ball for the drag flicker to execute their flick. So let’s dive into how we can improve our trapping skills.

First and foremost, we need to address hand positioning. There are different ways to hold the stick when trapping the ball, and it’s important to find a method that suits you best and feels comfortable. Some players prefer having their hands apart, while others may opt for a closer grip. Another variation is trapping the ball with the left hand at the top of the D or the curl to provide additional support. Experiment and find a grip that works well for you.

The angle of the stick is another critical aspect when trapping the ball. You want to find the right balance, neither having the stick too far down nor too open. If the stick is too low, the ball may bounce off the side, and if it’s too open, you’re merely blocking the ball, which can result in it rolling away. Aim to trap the ball at an angle that allows you to push it into the turf, effectively stopping its spin and preventing it from rolling. You want the ball to be trapped and stuck in the turf.

Next, let’s discuss footwork. Some players prefer a low and stable stance, sitting down and waiting for the ball to arrive. While this can work if the injector consistently delivers the ball in a specific area, it becomes challenging to reach the ball if it comes slightly to the right or left. To have better reach and adaptability, you can position your feet flat and slightly open, assuming a squat-like pose. This allows you to move quickly in response to the ball’s placement. By being flexible with your footwork, you can adjust and trap the ball effectively, regardless of its position.

One crucial aspect to avoid is letting the ball go underneath your stick. Although you’re not allowed to have your stick inside the D before the injection, once the ball is injected, you can firmly plant your grip on the turf. This ensures maximum depth in your stick and minimizes the chance of the ball slipping underneath. Pushing your grip down provides a clear indication of the maximum space available for the ball to go under, reducing the likelihood of it happening.

Lastly, when trapping the ball, you want to focus on receiving it and softening its landing rather than merely blocking it. As the ball arrives, make a controlled movement to catch it and guide it in, allowing for a smoother and cleaner trap. By doing so, you create a better setup for the subsequent play.

I hope you found these tips helpful for improving your trapping skills during penalty corners. Remember to practice and refine your technique.