Sweep Checking

Sweep checking is the most popular fore check used by forwards. This type of checking uses your stick to keep the opposing player from sending a pass or by knocking the puck away from them. This is accomplished by swinging your stick in a sweeping motion in front of the opposing player.  The ideal of the sweep check is to force the player to the outside.  Never approach the puck carrier head on because he/she could get around you and score a goal.  Always angle the puck carrier while sweeping your stick. You can accomplish the angling by using forward or backward cross overs.

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Hook Checking.

The hook check is accomplished by placing your top hand on the stick then bend one knee and bring the shaft of your stick down where it is nearly flat on the ice. Hook your stick blade in the direction of the puck.  The curved part of the stick should cup the puck and drive the puck away from the opponent.  This type of stick checking is the most difficult to use.

Lift Checking

Lift checking is the act of lifting the opposing teams stick to gain possession of the puck. A lift check is done for two reasons. The first reason is not to allow them to score a goal when they are positioned in front of the net. The second reason is to take the puck away and take it in for a goal yourself. Lift checking is done when you put your stick under their stick and lift up. This form of checking is another type of stick checking.

Press Checking

The press check is opposite of the lift check. The press check is when you use your stick to stop or control the movement of an opponents stick by placing your stick on top of their stick and pressing it down so that it can not move.

Poke Check.

A poke check involves using your stick to poke at the puck to knock it away from the opposing player. To accomplish a poke check place your top hand on the stick with palm down. The stick will face down and closed. Keeping your elbows tucked in toward your sides and use the other hand to keep your balance. Then poke the bottom of your stick blade at the puck using your top hand to get the puck away. With the poke check avoid sweeping your stick,the purpose of the poke check is to poke the puck not sweep it. Remember to always play the body after poking the puck away.

Stick Checking

Stick checking is the use of your stick to interfere  with an opponents stick to gain possession of the puck. There are many types of stick checking like left, poke, sweep, press and hook checking. Each type will separate the opponent from the puck and gain you the advantage. In the next few posts we will take a look at each of these types of stick checking.