Understanding the Synchronized Passing Drill

In the world of hockey, mastering the art of passing is critical. Smooth, effective passing can make the difference between a successful play and a missed opportunity. In this guide, I’ll walk you through a quick, simple, yet effective passing drill called “Synchronized Passing.” This drill can be applied to players of all ages and skill levels. Moreover, it offers several variations to keep practices dynamic and challenging.

What is Synchronized Passing?

The Basics

Synchronized passing aims to teach players to give and receive passes smoothly without breaking stride. The essence of this drill is maintaining close distance between players to ensure precise and efficient passing. You’ll want to focus on moving the puck “tape to tape”—meaning your passes are hitting the sweet spot of your teammate’s stick every single time. As players get better, the drill can be modified to incorporate more distance and different types of passes.

Initial Setup

1. Player Placement: Position two lines of players about two stick lengths apart. Players should be close enough that if they reach their sticks across, they can touch each other.
2. Speed: Start the drill at half or three-quarters speed to develop a feel for the passing rhythm. Eventually, work up to full speed.
3. Pass Style: Begin with a cushion and sweep pass, moving to touch passes or even finesse saucer passes as players improve.

Execution of the Drill

Basic Layout

• Starting the Drill: One line of players starts with the puck. Players move down the ice, exchanging passes in a synchronized manner. They should cushion sweep their passes to control the puck and deliver passes smoothly.
• Crossing Behind the Net: Once players reach the end of the rink, they loop around behind the net. Right-handed players will be on their forehand on the way down and backhand on the way back, and vice versa for left-handed players.
• Reversing Direction: After completing the first leg of the drill, players wait in a line on the same side of the rink and then repeat the drill coming back the opposite way.

Adding Complexity

As players become adept at synchronized passing, you can add a shot to the drill for an added layer of complexity:

1. Incorporate Shooting: Instead of looping around and returning, players can work in pairs. The pass goes to the outside player as they cross the blue line, driving wide while the other player drives towards the backdoor.
2. Executing Shots: The player with the puck makes a quick pass across the ice to their partner for a shot on net. This variation mimics a two-on-zero type scenario and helps players practice game-like situations.

Advanced Variations

Butterfly Passing

Butterfly passing is a more advanced iteration of synchronized passing:

1. Initial Passing: Players start in the middle of the ice, maintaining close passes as they move down the rink.
2. Cross-Ice Passes: In the far zone, players pass the puck to one side and then loop around the bottom of the circles. They come back with long cross-ice passes.

Specifics of Cross-Ice Passing

• Forehand vs. Backhand: While cross-ice backhand passes are generally low percentage plays, focusing on forehand passes can increase accuracy and success. The players receiving the puck should always gather it in front of them, whether it lands on their forehand or backhand.
• Avoiding Other Players: This drill helps players practice avoiding teammates who are also in motion, providing a more game-like feel.

Practical Tips and Insights

Emphasize Forehand Passes for Long Distances

While there is value in teaching players to use their backhands, long cross-ice passes on the backhand are low-percentage plays even in professional hockey. For this reason, emphasize sniping hard, accurate forehand passes during the butterfly drill.

Ensure Smooth Execution

The cornerstone of synchronized passing is achieving seamless puck movement. Strive for smooth, uninterrupted strides paired with crisp, accurate passes.

Keep Modifying

Introduce variations such as changing pass types, increasing distances, or incorporating more shots to keep the drills engaging and challenging. This approach ensures players remain focused and constantly improve their skills.

Conclusion

Synchronized passing is a vital drill for hockey players aiming to refine their passing game. By focusing on close-quarters passing, adding shooting components, and progressing to more complex configurations like butterfly passing, players can significantly enhance their skill set. Mastering these drills not only contributes to individual player development but also fosters better teamwork and communication on the ice.

For more drills, skills, and resources, be sure to keep up with Weiss Tech Hockey’s blog. Whether you’re a coach or a player, continuous practice and dedication to mastering the fundamentals are key to excelling in hockey. Happy training!

USE THIS DRILL IN YOUR OWN PRACTICE PLAN:

• PDF: Synchronized Passing Drill

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