Ice Hockey Strategies

Introduction
Ice hockey, just like any sport, requires both physical and mental skills in order for the athlete to perform to the best of their ability. Positions in ice hockey include the goaltender, wingers, centers, and defensemen. Each position requires different skills in order to succeed in the role and perform together as a team. There are three zones of play, the defensive, offensive and neutral zones, where players are expected to execute different strategies based on their position on the team. Physical conditioning and developing psychological abilities gives players a competitive edge.
Defensemen have a variety of different roles in the defensive and offensive zone. In the defensive zone, the defensemen are responsible for keeping themselves between the opponent and the goalie at all times to decrease scoring opportunities. The defensemen also need to force the opponents to the perimeter of the ice rink where it is harder to take a shot. In the offensive zone, defensemen support the wingers and centers while they are creating scoring chances closer to the net. It is important for defensemen to avoid turnovers at the blue line, and to move the puck to the wingers. Taking an accurate, powerful slap shot from the blue line can put the puck on net to either score or create an excellent rebound opportunity.
There are many stresses associated with being a defenseman, including decreasing scoring chances in the defensive zone, creating scoring opportunities in the offensive zone, avoiding turnovers, and effectively moving the puck. Psychological skills training can be helpful in decreasing the stresses that defensemen face, and increase confidence. Confidence involves a combination of believing in your own skills, talent, a...

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...the program was beneficial in improving the athlete’s confidence by enhancing his performance on the ice. His use of the new psychological tools presented afforded him the knowledge to refine his abilities on the ice in the areas of most concern to him.
Sport Confidence Inventory pg. 334 to measure confidence
Sport Imagery Questionnaire pg. 310
Discussion and Evaluation
The test subject, an 18-year-old male hockey defenseman, participated in a psychological skills training program designed to help improve confidence and performance. Education was provided for four psychological skill areas, including goal mapping, relaxation, imagery, and performance accomplishments.
3 week showed improvement
But gave skills to work on and improve over off season
Psychological skills take more than 3 weeks to result in significant change
Takes time and practice to perfect a skill