Learning Tips

Turns into Crossovers by Coach Vinny Messina

This is a very overlooked part of the game when we speak about them as one item. Usually there is a focus on each skill independent of each other. First the turn, and then the crossover. Not to mention the lack of time spent on the Crossunder portion of the crossover. This is a major factor in a player's ability to function at a high level with or without the puck. OK, lets get started!

• A good turn needs both skates on the ice with Equal weight distribution into both skates - this creates a stable base of strength and balance that will allow for a strong explosive crossover.
• Your body should be at approximately a 45 degree angle from the ice - any less of an angle will cause you to come "up" coming out of your turn instead of in the direction you are trying to get to. When you stand up, or straighten your legs you destroy your acceleration coming out of your turn, and you round off your turn.
• Your upper body (shoulders and chest) as well as your stick, should be pointed in the direction you are turning. Your shoulders are the "front wheels" and direct the power coming from your legs, or "back wheels" as you BURST into your crossover.

These 3 points are critical for your ability to handle a puck properly (in front of you and under your chin with your hands OFF your body.)

Kyle Okposo and Radek Martinek do a great job of illustrating these teaching points.

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