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STICK SAVES
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The stick is a great weapon to deflect, stop, control and direct an
incoming puck. Sizing, proper grip and the correct position in your stance
are all important factors to consider. If you have already read the chapters
on equipment and basic stance you should already know the fundamentals.
Now that you have the right stick and you are holding it properly how do you
use it to stop the puck?
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First of all, we need to understand that the stand up stick save is
now dead.
All low shots should be stopped down in the butterfly position
with stick involvement wherever possible.
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Keep the blade fairly upright so you don't deflect one up in the
breadbasket. As the shot comes in, follow the puck with your eyes and
move your stick sideways in an arc in front of the puck. Lean your body over
towards the save and back your stick up with a pad. A hard shot to a low
corner should be angled out of danger into the comer or up into the stands.
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Use the speed and force of the shot to control it. You don't need to jab
or stab at the puck. Small, precise motions are the best and if you have
ever watched an NHL warm up you know what I am talking about.