Face-Off Fundamentals: Breaking Down Winning Strategies for Every Situation - MartyStrength

Face-Off Fundamentals: Breaking Down Winning Strategies for Every Situation

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The Ultimate Hockey Faceoff Strategy: A Breakdown

When it comes to winning a hockey game, faceoffs are one of the most underrated yet crucial skills a player can master. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the thought process and strategies behind a successful faceoff, based on the key points from our latest YouTube video featuring Coach Marty and Coach Schomogyi.

This Video Breakdown will give you an overview of the fundamentals that go beyond just stepping into the circle.

Winning faceoffs isn’t about luck—it’s about preparation, strategy, and understanding the game on a deeper level.

1. Know Your Strengths and Areas for Improvement
Before you even step into the circle, it’s essential to identify your strengths and weaknesses as a player. Being honest with yourself about what you’re good at and what needs work will allow you to improve your faceoff game in different situations. Maybe you’re great at winning in the offensive zone, but struggle in the defensive end. The key is to be adaptable and effective in all situations, making you a player your team can rely on no matter where the faceoff is.

2. Study and Learn
The best players constantly study and learn from others. Watch videos, analyze different players’ techniques, and try to pick up a few key moves from each one. The more you study, the more you’ll be able to adapt to different opponents and refine your own game. This way, you can build a toolset that works in various faceoff scenarios.

3. Push the Limits (Within the Rules)
As Coach Schomogyi says, “If you ain’t cheating, you ain’t trying.” This doesn’t mean breaking the rules but pushing the boundaries of what you can get away with. Every referee and linesman has different tendencies, and it’s up to you to figure out what you can do in each game. Can you sneak in a quick move before the puck drops? Can you position your foot a bit differently without getting called out? These small advantages can make a big difference over the course of a game.

4. Read the Situation
One of the biggest mistakes players make is treating every faceoff the same. Before you even think about winning the puck, you need to evaluate the situation. Is it 5-on-5, 4-on-4, or a power play? Are you trying to protect a lead or come back from a deficit? What’s the strategy of your opponent? All of these factors should influence how you approach each draw.

5. Adapt to Your Opponent
Every opponent is different, and it’s important to recognize what’s working and what isn’t. If you’re consistently losing to a certain player, it’s time to change up your approach. Don’t let ego get in the way—sometimes, pulling your winger in to help win a faceoff can be the smartest play.

6. Prioritize Defensive Zone Faceoffs
In the defensive zone, the number one rule is simple: don’t lose the draw cleanly. A clean loss in the defensive end can lead to a quick shot on net, leaving your team scrambling. If you can’t win it clean, focus on tying up the puck or your opponent long enough for your teammates to get into position.

7. Be the Quarterback
As the center, you’re the quarterback of the faceoff. Before you step into the circle, scan the ice and communicate with your teammates. Point out potential threats, highlight opportunities, and make sure everyone knows what they’re doing. The more information you can gather and share, the better prepared your team will be to execute a successful faceoff play.

8. Understand the Importance of “Winning the Loss”
Not every faceoff loss is truly a loss. Sometimes, pushing the puck forward or into a specific area can still give your team an advantage, especially if your wingers or defensemen are ready to jump into action. Make sure your team has a plan for what happens if you lose the draw, so you’re always ready to counter.

9. Use All Available Tools
Winning faceoffs is not just about brute strength or fast reflexes. It’s about using all the tools available to you, including the positioning of your stick, feet, and even your body. Small details like hand position or where you’re looking before the draw can make a huge difference.

10. Plan for Every Outcome
Even the best players only win about 60% of their draws. That means having a plan for the 40% you might lose is just as important. Ensure your teammates know their roles and what to do in the event of a lost draw, especially in high-pressure situations like the defensive zone or late in the game.

Final Thoughts
Winning faceoffs is an essential skill for any hockey player who wants to be a valuable asset to their team. It’s about more than just reaction time—it’s about preparation, strategy, and using every advantage you can.

By mastering these strategies and thinking critically about each faceoff, you can elevate your game and make a bigger impact on the ice.

For more in-depth drills and strategies, check out the full video and keep an eye out for upcoming content where we dive deeper into specific face- off situations.

 

Want to up your game? Download these FREE templates made for beer league and competitive hockey players:

🏒 Beer League Workout Plan – Get stronger and faster with a routine tailored to your needs.
🔥 Beer League Warmup – Stay agile and injury-free with this pre-game warmup.
🏋️‍♂️ Off-Ice Warmup for Competitive Players – Prep for peak performance with advanced drills.
🥅 Stickhandling Drills – Improve your puck control and dominate the ice.

Download all for FREE and start leveling up today!

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