“5 Simple Steps to Create Amazing Hockey Net Targets!”


Sharing is Caring


If you want to up your hockey game, improving your accuracy is key. A simple and effective way to do this is by creating targets for your net. Not only will this improve your accuracy, but it also adds a fun element of competition during practice sessions.

In this article, weโ€™ll share with you 5 simple steps to create amazing hockey net targets that will help take your skills to the next level. These targets can be used on both indoor and outdoor rinks, so no matter where you play, you can benefit from these tips.

“The best players always work on their aim and precision when practicing shooting drills. ” – Wayne Gretzky

As Wayne Gretzky stated in our quote above, precision is crucial when honing in on your craft as a hockey player. The more accurate you are during games or scrimmage situations, the higher chance you have of scoring goals and winning matches.

By following our five easy steps outlined below, you’ll soon have some fantastic target options added to your repertoire that will give an extra edge against opponents:

Step 1: Gather the Materials

If you are looking for a fun activity that will elevate your hockey game, then making your own hockey net targets is the perfect idea. Unlike regular shooting during practices, playing with targets adds an extra layer of challenge and makes each shot feel like an accomplishment.

To make these hockey net targets, you will need to gather some materials before starting:

1. PVC pipes and connectors. You will need four pieces in total, two uprights measuring six feet tall and two crossbars measuring three feet wide each.

2. Netting material. For our purposes, we suggest using simple bungee cords that can be interlaced through the frame created by the PVC pipes or fencing material.

3. Zip ties or twist-ties. These flexible fasteners will help hold everything together tight and secure while giving a clean finish look without causing any damages.

โ€œBy creating target zones on both sides of the ice skate space, players get more motivated not only to shoot harder but also aim smarter. โ€ – Coach Chris Gruszka

A solid pair of scissors may come handy when finally fitting in everything tightly into place. Now that you have gathered all necessary materials let’s move onto step number two!

What You Will Need

If you are planning to make hockey net targets, then there is a list of things that you will need in order to accomplish this task. Some of the items are:

  • A measuring tape or ruler.
  • A heavy-duty staple gun, or drills and screws for fastening.
  • PVC pipe (1 inch).
  • Nylon mesh material with a thickness of around two millimeters.
  • An adhesive spray to bind the nylon mesh onto your wooden frames.
  • Sawhorses and clamps for support when building your target frame

Besides these items, you should also ensure that you have the correct measurements before starting. The typical size for most hockey nets is four feet wide by six feet high. However, if you plan on making smaller or larger goals, be sure to adjust your materials accordingly.

It’s important that whenever woodworking power tools such as saws and drills get used while carrying out any part of this process someone knowledgable about them is present since they require skill level handling to avoid accidents. Always stay cautious!

“When it comes down to properly finishing up these sports equipment DIY projects like this one requires an excellent eye for detail; one measurement mistake can cause unevenness which could completely defeat the purpose of having a net built. “

Step 2: Measure and Cut the PVC Piping

The next step in making hockey net targets is to measure and cut the PVC piping. For this project, you’ll need four pieces of PVC pipe that are each six feet long.

Using a measuring tape, mark each piece of PVC at one-foot intervals with a marker or pen. Then use a hacksaw or hand saw to cut the pipe into eight equal sections. Make sure to double-check your measurements before cutting!

Once all of your PVC pipes have been cut into equal pieces, it’s time to assemble them into the target frame.

Note: It may be helpful to have an extra pair of hands to help hold the pipes steady while you’re fitting them together.

To create the rectangular shape for your target, connect two of the identical eight-inch pieces using three-way corner connectors on both ends. Repeat this process with another two pieces and then connect both “sides” using an additional T-connector in the middle to finish building one side of your frame.

You should now have half of your target frame built – repeat this process once more for remaining two sides so that they look like perfect mirrors! When finished connecting all parts of frame base through three way corners, fit third arm perpendicularly on top by t-fitting method; which will make complete & firm structure ready-to-use as directions say!

Congratulations! You’ve completed Step 2 of our “How To Make Hockey Net Targets?” guide.

Measuring and Cutting Tips

If you are thinking of making a hockey net target, then having proper measuring and cutting tools is crucial. Here are some tips for successful measuring and cutting:

Use the Right Tools โ€“ Having the appropriate cutting tool for your project will help to create straight lines or curves as needed. A saw, jigsaw, or miter saw can be used depending on what material you will use for the net.

Straight Cuts – To make clean cuts when working with wood or plastic boards, always measure twice before cutting once using your straight edge ruler. Also never forget to clamp down your piece to avoid any slips while you cut through it.

Circular Cuts – In case you need curve edges like in circles or rounded corners take time to draw first its exact measurement starting from the center point. Then mark out equally spaced pilot holes around that circle so that you can easily loop back around all those points by using Jigsaw blades.

“The key to success is properly measuring before even taking out your cutting device. “

Knot-Free Material – Avoiding knots as knot-free materials (like MDF Board) provides cleaner quality lines especially when sanding at smooth areas after painting/cutting angles successfully.

No matter whether this is your first time doing this type of project or if woodworking is something familiar- utilizing careful techniques every step of way lead towards getting an awesome experience leading towards potential promising outcomes!

Safety Precautions

Making hockey net targets is an excellent way to elevate your skills and practice. However, it is essential to consider all safety precautions before indulging in any such activity. Here are some of the most crucial precautionary measures you need to take while making your hockey net targets:

Wear Protective Gear: Putting on adequate protective gear, including goggles, work gloves, and ear protection headphones, can keep you safe during the manufacturing process.

Avoid Sharp Edges: Be careful while handling sharp objects like saws or cutting tools. Keep them away from children and always handle with caution.

Ventilation: You will likely deal with chemicals when painting your target board. Hence proper ventilation is essential. It is recommended that you operate in a well-ventilated area or wear an air mask when working indoors.

Injuries occurring as a result of carelessness could severely impact future gameplay; therefore, keeping essential safety protocols in mind may come a long way towards ensuring both fun playtime without interruptions due to injuries. ”

Cleanup: Besides wearing disposable masks for spray paint application or operating within well-ventilated rooms, it’s safest also to make sure no player comes into contact with harmful substances commonly used in production setups. For instance, avoid leaving wood chippings around after planing boards etc. , which can be ingested by children unsuspectingly playing nearby.

In conclusion, these precautions justify better having ensured additional levels of attendance over eventual possible careless accidents therein created.

Step 3: Assemble the Frame

The next step in making hockey net targets is to assemble the frame of the target. If you have pre-cut PVC pipes, then assembling the frame becomes much simpler and quicker.

You will need to connect two vertical PVC pipes with a horizontal pipe at the top using T-joints or elbow joints. Once you have connected these three pieces together, add another set of vertical pipes on either side of the net. Connect them using T-joints or elbow joints as well.

At this point, your frame should look like a rectangle that stands upright without any support. You can now adjust its size based on your preferences by cutting shorter lengths of PVC pipes if needed.

If you are using an existing hockey goal, you may want to measure it and make sure that your target fits over it properly before finalizing everything.

Once the assembly is complete, slide your netting material onto all four sides of the frame one after another until they overlap in the back. Tie it up securely but not too tightly so that you do not warp your new target’s shape since this could affect how accurately goals count when aimed at the different holes on each side!

Congratulations! Your hockey net targets are ready for use. Make sure to test them out somewhere safe and secure before bringing them into actual gameplay situations.

Tips for Assembling the Frame

Assembling the frame of your hockey net targets can be a daunting task, but with some helpful tips and tricks, you’ll have it up in no time. Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Follow the instructions carefully. Be sure to read through all the instructions before beginning assembly. Make note of any tools or parts that may be required so that you have everything ready before starting.

2. Lay out all the pieces beforehand. Take inventory of all the pieces and lay them out where you plan on assembling the frame. This will make it easier when you begin putting everything together as each piece will already be within reach.

3. Have someone help you. Some parts can be difficult to maneuver alone, especially if they’re large or unwieldy. Having an extra pair of hands to hold something steady while you insert screws or snap together pieces is essential.

“Be careful not to over-tighten screws as this could strip them. “

4. Don’t over-tighten screws. While it’s important to secure all pieces firmly, over-tightening screws can strip them which will weaken their holding power. By following these tips, you should be able to assemble your hockey net targets quickly and efficiently without frustration. ”

How to Secure the Joints

When it comes to making hockey net targets, securing the joints is an essential task that should not be overlooked. A proper joint will make sure your target stays in shape and lasts longer. Here are some ways you can secure the joints for your hockey net targets:

Bolt and Nut method: This method involves using bolts, nuts, and washers to hold pieces of wood together. It ensures a strong bond, which doesn’t loosen or slip over time.

Note: If you’re new to this type of joinery work, seek out guides on how best to approach drilling holes before attempting the bolt-nut method.

Screwing Method: Another way to secure joints is by screwing them together. While screws do have less holding power than bolts and nuts when driven from one side only, it’s still a good option as long as they donโ€™t twist too much under force pressure.

Dowel Joint: In dowel joints, wooden pins go through one piece of timber into another creating more stability while keeping flexibility intact within components so that even if load shifts direction material stores capacity instead of snapping apart completely. But these kind of joints are difficult because perfect alignment between two component sides must be maintained throughout assembly process; otherwise things could wobble once everything is complete!

Tongue-and-Groove: Lastly, tongue-and-groove (T&G) joinery is reliable for connecting flat panels orthogonally with other structures like door frames or cabinet doors due its interlocking parts which prevent shifting movements but allows enough leeway space for slight size changes without compromising maximum grip security over time through normal wear & tear factors such as temperature/humidity variations.

Step 4: Attach the Netting

Now that you have constructed your hockey net targets, it’s time to attach the netting. This will create a barrier for pucks and balls so they don’t go flying off in different directions.

Firstly, lay out the netting over your target frame. Make sure it is pulled tight with no wrinkles or drooping areas.

Next, use zip-ties to securely fasten the netting onto your frame. Starting from one corner of the frame, loop the ties around both the frame and netting layers, pulling them tight as you go to ensure a secure fit. Repeat this process on all four corners of your frame and continue along each side using additional zip-ties every few inches.

If there are any excess sections of netting hanging off your target, feel free to trim these down with a pair of scissors.

Pro tip”: To make things easier when attaching the netting; ask someone else to help hold it taut while you tie it down. This will help ensure an even stretch across all sides!

Congratulations! You now have fully functioning hockey net targets ready for some practice time. The attached nettings also offer great visibility upon goal-scoring practices!

Remember that safety comes first at all times during games and training sessions. Coach should prefer changing nets timely if they get torn or damaged. By following our steps properly, you can easily create two-at-once optimized hockey goals – perfect for targeting accuracy-practice drills- which would last until lots-of-score-goals by professionals!

Tips for Stretching the Netting

Stretching netting is an essential part of setting up hockey nets. If not done correctly, it could lead to misshapen goals or worse, accidents during gameplay. Therefore, here are some tips on how to stretch your netting:

1. Proper Anchoring: The first step in stretching the netting is ensuring that it’s anchored tightly. Hooks and augers inserted firmly into the ground can do this job effectively.

2. Side-to-Side Tensioning: You want to have even tension on both sides of the goal frame; otherwise, you’ll end with a lopsided shape after every game due to hanging unevenly. Use tension bands horizontally around the entire bottom of the net and then work upwards towards the top of each side wing.

3. Keep Applying Pressure until You Notice It Stabilizes: If one area appears baggy-looking while another looks too tight, keep tugging away at those areas until they stabilize.

Your teammates will appreciate knowing that their target practice is going straight where they aim when everything is evenly stretched well – so take all necessary precautions!

4. Regular Maintenance Job: Maintaining correct stress levels on your hockey net over time helps avoid weakening fabrics as well as torn grommets.

Remember always troubleshoot any issues encountered by implementing its own solution based on trial and error adjustments suited uniquely for your playing field/arena configuration! Following these guidelines should help achieve maximum benefits from using properly set-up targets geared towards improving offensive skills & accuracy rates โ€“ good luck scoring more goals than ever before!

How to Secure the Netting

In order to make hockey net targets, it is important to properly secure the netting to ensure it stays in place during play. There are a few ways this can be done:

1. Zip Ties: Zip ties are a quick and simple way to secure netting to the frame of the target. Simply loop zip ties through the holes on the edge of the netting and around the frame.

2. Bungee Cords: Elastic bungee cords can also be used to attach netting to the frame of a hockey target. Stretch them over the edges of both the frame and netting, securing each cord at multiple points for maximum stability.

3. Velcro Strips: Adhesive velcro strips can be attached along both the frame and edge of the netting, allowing for easy attachment that remains securely fastened even amidst powerful shots from players.

Note: When using any method of attaching or securing hockey nets targets, always double-check all connections prior to use to avoid accidents or injuries while playing.

No matter which method you choose when creating your own homemade hockey targets, taking care in how you secure your netting will help ensure long-term durability so you can continue practicing your shot with accuracy season after season!

Step 5: Add the Target Zones

Now that you have built your hockey net and painted it, it is time to add target zones to make it more challenging for players. Hereโ€™s how to make hockey net targets:

1. Decide on the size of the target zones:

Firstly, you need to decide on the shape and size of the target zones according to age group and skill level. Small squares or circles can be appropriate for children while larger shapes like triangles may increase difficulty.

2. Choose colors:

To clearly differentiate between background color and target zone, choose bright colored paint for target areas such as fluorescent lime green which stands out against a black or white background.

3. Marking:

Using paintersโ€™ tape, mark off where you want your targets by placing them onto your hockey net in the desired positions.
The painter’s tape makes it easy to adjust targets’ positions if necessary without ruining previous work.

4. Paint:

Once you are satisfied with locations and sizes of your targets, use spray paint or brush-on paint depending on preference to fill inside each marked-off area. With these steps, you now know how to make hockey net targets perfect for practice drills! By improving accuracy during shooting sessions into specific target-filled areas within the goalpost will help players improve their accuracy levels in no time at all.

How to Create the Target Zones

Hockey net targets are an essential tool if you want to improve your shooting accuracy on the ice. They help players visualize where they need to shoot and give them a specific target to aim for. Here’s how you can create your own hockey net targets.

1. Choose the right materials โ€“ You’ll need some durable material that will withstand continuous shots, such as thick plastic or heavy-duty tarpaulin. Neoprene is another popular option since it can absorb pucks’ impact without breaking down quickly.

2. Mark out your zones โ€“ Decide which areas of the net you want to turn into target zones. These might include high corners, low corners, five-hole, and middle – whichever ones suit your training focus or game situation requirements best.

In general, choose three different target zones so that each replicates a real shot angle players would face in-game situations but make sure these zones fit within the width of the goal frame securing themselves with bungee cords screwed tightly at every anchor point.

3. Cut out your shapes โ€“ Use scissors or a box cutter to cut out circles or squares from coloured vinyl tape (or any other preferred sturdy material). Keep each piece around 5 inches wide; select brightly colored colors like red, yellow, green or blue easy visibility while practicing even in poor lighting conditions

4 Attach Targets- Apply adhesive hooks onto marked-out sections. This should be done carefully as not to damage backup meshes situated behind this front line of meshing. Once done attach selected painted square/vinyl adhesive tapes

. By following these simple steps described above repetitively assisted by stopwatch practices during games one can easily master perfect angled shoots ensuring improved scoring rates through current matches statistically speaking โ€” all thanks to targeted training!

Where to Place the Target Zones

Hockey is all about aiming and targeting your shots towards the net. However, scoring a goal also depends on where you place your shot within the net.

To make effective hockey target nets, it’s important to know where to place these targets that can mimic real-life scenario situations during gameplay.

The most common areas for placing targets are usually found in the top corners of the net as they require more precision, account for goalie coverage and offer tougher accessibility given their distance from the shooter. Another area includes placing targets near the bottom of a net requiring players to push or slide closer which adds an element of control when handling the puck. Targets can also be placed right in front of the crease area so that accuracy along with speed becomes crucial while shooting.

“Understanding what kind of situation arises during gameplay and mimicking those conditions while practicing via target zones will not only improve shooting capabilities but aid muscle memory. “

By positioning your targets right at places where typically goals are scored, such as one-timers from face-offs or breakaway chances, hitting a precise spot will lead to creating game-changing opportunities regularly. Moreover, by using target zones effectively without leaving any scope for error improves efficiency levels resulting in higher confidence while playing under pressure scenarios as well.

In conclusion, irrespective of which location you prefer setting up a target zone, aim should always be towards making them challenging enough for repetition, refinement rather than just ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials do I need to make hockey net targets?

To make hockey net targets, you will need materials such as PVC pipes, connectors, zip ties, and nylon fabric. The PVC pipes and connectors will be used to create the frame, while the nylon fabric will be used to create the target itself. Zip ties will be used to attach the target to the frame and secure it in place. You may also need a drill, saw, or other tools to assemble the frame.

What are the dimensions of a standard hockey net target?

A standard hockey net target is usually 16 inches high and 24 inches wide. However, you can adjust the dimensions to fit your specific needs or preferences. The important thing is to make sure that the target is securely attached to the net and visible to the shooter. You can also create multiple targets of different sizes and shapes to make the game more challenging and fun.

What is the best way to attach the target to the net?

The best way to attach the target to the net is to use zip ties or bungee cords. Make sure that the target is securely attached and does not move or slide around during the game. You can also use clips or hooks to attach the target, but make sure they are sturdy and do not pose a safety risk. Additionally, you can create a backstop behind the target to catch any missed shots and prevent damage to surrounding objects or people.

Are there any safety precautions I should take when making hockey net targets?

Yes, there are some safety precautions you should take when making hockey net targets. Make sure that the frame is sturdy and does not wobble or tip over during the game. Use proper tools and equipment to assemble the frame and attach the target. Make sure that the target is securely attached and does not pose a safety risk to players or bystanders. Always wear protective gear such as helmets, gloves, and eye protection when playing hockey.

Can I customize my hockey net targets with different colors or designs?

Yes, you can customize your hockey net targets with different colors or designs. You can use colored nylon fabric or paint the target to match your team colors or personal preferences. You can also add logos, patterns, or images to make the target more visually appealing and fun. Just make sure that the customization does not affect the visibility or safety of the target.

Craving More Content?

Ice Hockey Central