How To Do A Deke In Hockey
Answer:
A deke, short for “decoy,” is a popular technique used in ice hockey to outmaneuver an opponent. It involves faking a move to deceive the defender and create an opening for a shot or a pass. Here are five supporting facts on how to perform a deke in hockey:
1. Master the basics: Before attempting a deke, make sure you have a solid foundation of skating and stickhandling skills. This includes being comfortable with both one-handed and two-handed stickhandling techniques and having good agility on the ice.
2. Choose the right situation: Timing is crucial when performing a deke. Pick the right moment when you have some open space and a good view of the defender. It’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and choose the right deke based on the defender’s positioning.
3. Observe the defender: Take a quick glance at the defender’s position and stick placement. This will help you determine which deke will be most effective. If the defender is anticipating a pass, using a move that involves pulling the puck back towards your body can be particularly effective.
4. Use your body as a decoy: Successful dekes often involve using body fakes to trick the defender. Shift your weight, make quick turns, and head fakes to keep the defender guessing about your next move. The more you can make the defender commit to a certain direction, the greater the chance of creating an opening.
5. Practice and experiment: Becoming proficient in performing a deke requires practice. Set up drills to simulate game situations and work on different dekes from various positions on the ice. Experiment with different moves and modify them based on the defenders’ reactions. The more you practice, the better your deking skills will become.
FAQs:
Q1. Are there any specific dekes that I should focus on mastering?
A1. While there are numerous dekes to choose from, some of the most effective ones include the toe drag, the fake shot, and the between-the-legs deke. Start by practicing these, but don’t limit yourself to just one – having multiple dekes in your arsenal will keep opponents guessing.
Q2. How can I improve my stickhandling skills to enhance my dekes?
A2. Stickhandling is a crucial aspect of performing successful dekes. Work on drills that focus on puck control, such as stickhandling through cones or practicing quick hands on the move. Developing your stickhandling abilities will give you more options and confidence when executing dekes.
Q3. What if the defender doesn’t take the bait and doesn’t commit to my deke?
A3. If the defender doesn’t fall for your deke, quickly transition to another move or adjust your plan on the spot. This is why it’s important to be adaptable and have multiple dekes in your repertoire. Remember, not every deke will always work against every defender.
Q4. Can I use dekes in other areas of the game, like penalty shots or shootout attempts?
A4. Absolutely! Dekes can be effective in various situations, including penalty shots and shootouts. However, keep in mind that the pressure is higher in these instances, so it’s crucial to practice and be confident in executing your dekes.
Q5. Is there a chance of losing the puck while attempting a deke?
A5. Yes, there is always a risk of losing the puck while attempting a deke. It’s important to have good control and awareness of the puck, and to practice dekes with increasing difficulty as you improve. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you will be in executing dekes without losing the puck.
Q6. Can I deke while moving at high speeds?
A6. Yes, dekes can be performed while moving at high speeds. In fact, using dekes while skating fast can catch defenders off guard and give you an advantage. Work on your overall skating ability to ensure you can perform dekes at any speed.
Q7. Should I always aim for a shot after executing a successful deke?
A7. Not necessarily. While one of the primary purposes of deking is to create a scoring opportunity, it’s also common to set up a pass to a teammate or create space for a better shot. The key is to stay aware of your options and make a quick decision based on the defender’s reaction.
BOTTOM LINE: Mastering the art of deking in hockey requires a combination of skill, practice, and game awareness. By understanding the basics, observing the defender, utilizing body fakes, and practicing different dekes, you’ll be able to create scoring opportunities for yourself or your teammates with increased success. Keep experimenting with various dekes and adapt your approach based on the defender’s reactions to become a formidable deking force on the ice.
