Chip Shot

In the game of hockey, we often witness players executing lobs to elevate the ball. However, today we’re going to explore a more challenging technique known as the chip shot. Unlike a traditional shot where we aim for power, the chip shot requires us to open the stick blade at the last moment to achieve a higher trajectory. Our objective with the chip shot is to ensure that the entire stick goes under the ball, rather than just the top portion.

In previous videos, I’ve emphasized the importance of keeping your shoulders and head above the ball when hitting. However, for the chip shot, we need to adopt a slightly different body position. It’s akin to the technique used in golf chipping. In the chip shot, you want to lean back slightly to facilitate getting under the ball. So, in your final position, your shoulders are further away from the ball, allowing the stick to do most of the work. By opening up your body, you can achieve the desired upward trajectory.

When it comes to hand positioning for the chip shot, there are three key aspects to consider. First, you should open up the face of the stick completely, unlike the normal shooting grip. Second, adopting a slightly shorter grip can be beneficial. This reduces the length of your backswing, enabling you to generate more speed and get under the ball effectively. Finally, during the chip shot, focus on using your wrists more than your arms. By utilizing a throwing motion with your right wrist (for right-handed players), you can generate the necessary lift. This involves flipping your wrist during the follow-through.

To summarize, the three important elements of the chip shot are opening the stick face toward the sky, using a slightly shorter grip, and emphasizing wrist movement in the follow-through. By practicing these techniques, you’ll be able to execute chip shots with greater control and height.