Uncovering the Mystery Behind Floor Check in Hockey: What You Need to Know

Do you often hear the term “floor check” when watching hockey games? Do you know what it means? Whether you’re a seasoned hockey fan or a newcomer to the sport, it’s essential to understand the basics of floor checking. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the concept of floor checking in hockey and provide you with all the information you need to know to master this important aspect of the game.

At its core, floor checking is a defensive strategy used by hockey players to regain possession of the puck. It involves players using their body to impede the progress of the opposing team while trying to take control of the puck. Over time, floor checking has evolved into an essential component of the game, and understanding its nuances can give players an edge on the ice.

In this article, we’ll explore the history of floor checking in hockey, techniques and tips on how to perform floor checks correctly, common mistakes to avoid, and what coaches look for when evaluating players’ floor checking skills. By the end of this article, you’ll have a solid understanding of what floor checking is, why it’s important, and how you can use it to your advantage on the ice.

So, whether you’re a player looking to up your game or a fan wanting to deepen your understanding of the sport, read on to uncover the mystery behind floor check in hockey.

What is Floor Check in Hockey?

Floor check is a defensive technique used in ice hockey to impede the progress of an opponent and regain control of the puck. It is an essential skill that every hockey player should master, regardless of their position on the ice.

When performing a floor check, a player skates aggressively towards their opponent, aims to cut off their skating lanes, and uses their body to create separation between the opponent and the puck. A successful check can force a turnover, allowing the checking team to gain possession of the puck and create a scoring opportunity.

Unlike body checking, which is a physical hit on an opponent, floor checking is a way to disrupt an opponent’s movement without making contact. This technique is essential for defensive players as it enables them to stop an opponent’s advance without risking penalties or injuries.

To perform a successful floor check, a player needs to be quick, agile, and have excellent timing. It requires a combination of physical and mental skills, including good skating technique, spatial awareness, and the ability to anticipate an opponent’s movements.

For young hockey players, learning how to floor check can be challenging. Still, with proper coaching and consistent practice, it can become a natural and effective part of their defensive repertoire.

If you want to improve your defensive skills and become a valuable asset to your hockey team, mastering the floor check is a must. In the following sections, we’ll explore the history of floor checking in hockey, its importance, and techniques to perform a perfect floor check, so keep reading.

The Definition of Floor Checking in Hockey

Floor checking is a fundamental defensive strategy in hockey that aims to prevent the opposition team from advancing the puck past the defensive zone. It involves the use of body positioning, stick-checking, and angling to disrupt the opponent’s play and regain possession of the puck.

Body Positioning: To execute a successful floor check, a player must maintain a low center of gravity and stay in between the opponent and the goal, while keeping their stick on the ice to prevent passes.

Stick-Checking: Players use their sticks to poke-check, lift or sweep the puck away from the opposing player’s stick. Stick checks must be done legally, i.e., without making contact with the opponent’s hands or body.

Angling: A player must angle their body and stick to force the opposing player towards the boards, limiting their space to move and make a play. This technique can help to create turnovers and give the defending team a chance to regain possession of the puck.

Timing: Timing is crucial in floor checking. A well-timed check can separate the opponent from the puck and give the defensive team a scoring opportunity. However, a poorly timed check can lead to a penalty or create a gap in the defense.

When and How to Use Floor Checking in a Hockey Game

Floor checking is an essential aspect of the game, but it’s important to know when and how to use it effectively. It can be used to prevent an opposing player from entering the zone or getting a shot off, but it can also be used to take away time and space from a player who has the puck. Here are some tips on when and how to use floor checking:

1. When to use it: Use floor checking when the opposing player has the puck in the neutral zone, your defensive zone, or when they’re entering your offensive zone.
2. How to use it: Keep your stick down and use your body to angle the opposing player towards the boards or away from the net. Keep your feet moving and be aware of your positioning on the ice.
3. Don’t overuse it: While floor checking is an effective way to disrupt the other team’s play, overusing it can lead to penalties, exhaustion, and leaving your team vulnerable to counter-attacks.
4. Practice makes perfect: Floor checking requires practice and technique. Take the time to work on your technique in practice and focus on positioning, timing, and using your body effectively to disrupt the play.

By understanding when and how to use floor checking in a hockey game, you can become a more effective player and help your team succeed. Keep these tips in mind and remember to practice regularly to improve your floor checking skills.

Key Skills Required for Effective Floor Checking in Hockey

Effective floor checking in hockey requires a combination of physical and mental skills. Here are some of the key skills required:

• Agility: A floor checker needs to be quick and agile to keep up with the opponent and anticipate their moves.
• Body control: Floor checking requires good body control to stay balanced and make effective contact with the opponent without losing balance or getting knocked down.
• Stick positioning: Proper stick positioning is crucial for intercepting passes, blocking shots, and disrupting the opponent’s play.
• Anticipation: Floor checking requires good anticipation skills to read the opponent’s moves and react quickly to intercept the puck or disrupt their play.

To become an effective floor checker, it’s important to work on developing these key skills through regular practice and training. In addition to physical training, mental preparation is also important. A floor checker needs to have a clear mind and focus on the game to make split-second decisions and react quickly to changing situations on the ice.

History of Floor Checking in Hockey

Body Checking: The Early Years

The origins of floor checking in hockey can be traced back to the sport’s early days. Body checking was introduced as a means of gaining possession of the puck and disrupting the opposing team’s offense. However, the rules and regulations surrounding body checking were largely undefined, leading to dangerous collisions and injuries on the ice.

The Rise of Floor Checking

Over time, hockey officials recognized the need for more specific guidelines around body checking to promote player safety. This led to the development of floor checking, a less aggressive form of checking that involves using body position and stick skills to gain control of the puck without making contact with the opposing player.

Modern Floor Checking Rules

Today, floor checking remains an integral part of hockey strategy and is governed by specific rules and regulations. These rules emphasize safety and fairness, and players who violate them can face penalties or even ejections from the game. Despite the evolution of the game, the importance of floor checking remains as strong as ever.

Continued Evolution of the Game

As the game of hockey continues to evolve, so too do the rules and strategies around floor checking. Today, coaches and players alike are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to incorporate floor checking into their game plan and gain an edge on the ice.

Origins and Evolution of Floor Checking in Hockey

Origins: The concept of checking in hockey can be traced back to the 19th century when the sport was still in its infancy. Players used their bodies to obstruct opponents and steal the puck, but there were no specific rules for checking. The first official rules regarding checking were established in the early 20th century.

Evolution: Over the years, checking has become an integral part of hockey, and various forms of checking have evolved, including body checking, stick checking, and poke checking. Floor checking, in particular, has become an effective defensive tactic, allowing players to prevent opponents from entering their defensive zone and making it difficult for them to set up scoring opportunities.

Changes to the Rules: The rules governing checking have also undergone significant changes over the years, particularly with regards to player safety. In recent years, the NHL has introduced rules aimed at reducing dangerous hits and head injuries, including penalties for hits to the head and boarding.

The Future of Floor Checking: As the game continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see further changes to the rules surrounding checking in hockey. However, floor checking is likely to remain a key defensive tactic for years to come, as players continue to develop new techniques and strategies for using it effectively.

Famous Floor Checkers in the History of Hockey

There have been many legendary players who were known for their impressive floor checking skills. Here are a few of the most notable:

• Bobby Clarke: This former Philadelphia Flyers captain was a master at reading plays and anticipating where the puck would go next. He was so good at floor checking that the term “Clarke checking” was coined to describe his style of play.
• Bob Gainey: Another legendary captain, Gainey was known for his tireless work ethic and ability to disrupt opposing players. His exceptional defensive skills earned him four Selke Trophies for best defensive forward in the NHL.
• Doug Gilmour: Gilmour was a scrappy center who excelled at both offense and defense. His aggressive floor checking helped him rack up an impressive 1,414 career points and earned him the nickname “Killer.”
• Patrice Bergeron: This current Boston Bruins star is widely regarded as one of the best two-way players in the game today. Bergeron’s impeccable positioning and stick work make him a nightmare for opposing players, and he has won four Selke Trophies of his own.

These players are just a few examples of the countless athletes who have made their mark on the game of hockey with their exceptional floor checking abilities.

Impact of Rule Changes on Floor Checking in Hockey

The game of hockey has evolved over the years, and with it, the rules governing the game. The way players check each other has also changed, and the rules around floor checking have been no exception.

Introduction of the two-line pass rule: The two-line pass rule was introduced in 1998 to promote faster and more exciting gameplay. It restricted players from passing the puck across both the red line and the opposing team’s blue line. This rule reduced the number of floor checks because it forced players to rely more on stick checks and body positioning.

Introduction of the trapezoid behind the net: In 2005, the NHL introduced the trapezoid behind the net, which restricted the goalie from playing the puck outside of the designated area. This rule was introduced to prevent goalies from controlling the pace of the game by slowing it down. As a result, there has been an increase in the number of floor checks as players can now recover the puck more easily behind the net.

Introduction of the hybrid icing rule: The hybrid icing rule was introduced in 2013 to reduce the number of injuries that occurred during traditional icing plays. The rule allows the referee to call icing if they believe that the defensive player will reach the puck first, even if the offensive player is closer to the puck. This rule has reduced the number of floor checks during icing plays.

Introduction of the coach’s challenge: In 2015, the NHL introduced the coach’s challenge, which allowed coaches to challenge specific calls made by the referees. This rule has affected floor checking by creating more stoppages in play, giving teams more time to rest and plan their floor checking strategy.

As the game of hockey continues to evolve, it is likely that the rules governing floor checking will continue to change as well. It is important for players to stay informed about these changes and adapt their playing style accordingly.

Importance of Floor Checking in Hockey

Defensive Strategy: Floor checking is a crucial defensive strategy in hockey, allowing teams to regain possession of the puck and prevent scoring opportunities for the opposition.

Physical Fitness: Floor checking requires a high level of physical fitness and endurance, making it an important aspect of player training and conditioning.

Teamwork: Effective floor checking requires coordination and communication among team members, promoting teamwork and cohesion on the ice.

Fan Appeal: Floor checking is a dynamic and exciting aspect of the game, and fans appreciate the skill and athleticism required to execute it successfully.

Why Floor Checking is Vital for Successful Hockey Teams

• Defense: Floor checking is a crucial part of defensive play in hockey, as it allows teams to regain possession of the puck and prevent the opposition from scoring.

• Offense: While often thought of as a defensive strategy, floor checking can also be used as an offensive tactic to create scoring opportunities and wear down the opposing team’s defense.

• Teamwork: Effective floor checking requires coordination and communication among teammates, which can help build team chemistry and improve overall performance.

• Momentum: A well-executed floor check can shift the momentum of a game and energize both the players and the fans, making it a valuable tool for teams looking to gain an edge.

In short, floor checking is a fundamental skill that can make all the difference between a successful team and a struggling one in the sport of hockey. It requires discipline, teamwork, and a commitment to both offensive and defensive play, and is a key component of any winning strategy.

How to Perform Floor Check in Hockey: Techniques and Tips

Proper Positioning: The first step to a successful floor check is proper positioning. The checker must approach the opposing player at the right angle and distance to be effective.

Stick Placement: The stick plays a crucial role in floor checking. It should be placed on the ice in front of the opposing player, either to slow them down or to force them in a particular direction.

Body Contact: Timing is essential when making body contact. The checker should hit the opposing player at the right time to avoid a penalty while effectively taking them off the puck.

Agility and Balance: Floor checking requires a combination of agility and balance. The checker should be able to change direction quickly, maintain balance while performing the check and be ready to recover quickly in case the check fails.

Body Positioning and Angling for Effective Floor Checking in Hockey

Body positioning is crucial when performing a floor check in hockey. The checker should have a low, wide stance with knees bent and their weight evenly distributed on both feet. This provides stability and balance, which is essential when engaging with an opponent.

Angling is also important in floor checking. The checker should approach the opponent at an angle, rather than head-on, to reduce the opponent’s options and increase the chance of a successful check. The angle of approach should be calculated based on the opponent’s position, speed, and direction.

Proper timing is key to successful floor checking. The checker should wait until the opponent is within reach before initiating the check. This requires quick reaction time and the ability to read the opponent’s movements.

Using Your Stick to Disrupt Opponents During Floor Checking in Hockey

Column 1	Column 2	Column 3
Stick Lift	Poke Check	Stick Sweep
One of the best ways to disrupt an opponent during floor checking is with a stick lift. This is where you place your stick under the blade of your opponent’s stick and lift it up, causing them to lose control of the ball. Be careful not to lift too high, or you may be penalized for hooking.	The poke check is another effective way to disrupt your opponent’s movements. With a quick motion, you can knock the ball away from your opponent by tapping their stick with your own. This is a great way to regain possession of the ball.	A stick sweep involves using your stick to knock the ball out of your opponent’s path. This is done by sweeping your stick in a low, lateral motion to the side of your opponent’s stick. This move can be particularly effective if your opponent is trying to carry the ball along the boards.
Remember, when attempting any of these moves, it’s important to stay in control and avoid contact with your opponent’s body. Keep your stick low and be aware of where your opponent’s stick and body are positioned on the floor.	By utilizing these stick-checking techniques, you can gain an advantage on the floor and disrupt your opponent’s movements. Practice these moves with your teammates during training sessions to develop your stick-handling skills and become a more effective player on the floor.

In conclusion, stick checking is an essential part of floor checking in hockey. Learning how to use your stick effectively can help you disrupt your opponent’s movements, regain possession of the ball, and gain an advantage on the floor. By incorporating stick-lifting, poke checking, and stick sweeping into your game, you can become a more effective player and help your team achieve success.

Timing and Anticipation: Keys to Successful Floor Checking in Hockey

Floor checking is an essential part of playing hockey. It is a physical technique that can be used to regain possession of the puck, disrupt the opposition, and create scoring opportunities. Timing and anticipation are key factors in executing successful floor checking in hockey.

Timing is crucial in floor checking. Players must time their movements and body checks precisely to make effective contact with their opponents. When executed correctly, a well-timed check can knock an opponent off balance and gain possession of the puck. However, poorly timed checks can result in missed opportunities and penalties.

Anticipation is equally important in floor checking. Players need to anticipate their opponent’s movements and actions to be in the right place at the right time. By anticipating an opponent’s next move, a player can position themselves to intercept a pass or make a successful check. This requires not only physical awareness but also a deep understanding of the game and the opponent’s tendencies.

Effective floor checking also requires players to be able to read the play and anticipate what is going to happen next. This means keeping your head up and constantly scanning the ice for potential opportunities to make a play. By being aware of what is happening around them, players can position themselves to take advantage of any situation.

Another key to successful floor checking is to be patient and not rush in. Players who are too eager to make a hit or win back the puck can end up out of position, leaving their team vulnerable to counterattacks. Instead, players need to be patient and wait for the right opportunity to present itself before making their move.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Floor Checking in Hockey

Checking is an essential part of hockey. It can be the difference between a win and a loss. However, even the most experienced players can make mistakes when floor checking. Here are five common mistakes to avoid:

Poor Timing: One of the most common mistakes is checking at the wrong time. If you check too early, the opponent may have time to make a pass or shoot. If you check too late, they may have already made their move and escaped your reach.

Poor Anticipation: Similar to poor timing, failing to anticipate your opponent’s movements can lead to missed checks. Study your opponent’s playing style and be ready to react to their next move.

Using Only Your Stick: While your stick is an important tool for checking, relying solely on it can be a mistake. A well-timed body check can be more effective in disrupting your opponent’s play.

Failing to Protect Yourself: Checking can be a dangerous part of the game. Always make sure to protect yourself when checking, especially along the boards where collisions can be more severe.

Getting Caught Out of Position: A successful check requires proper positioning. If you’re caught out of position, you may miss the check or leave your team vulnerable to counter-attacks. Make sure to stay in a good defensive position before attempting a check.

Going for Big Hits instead of Effective Floor Checking in Hockey

When it comes to floor checking in hockey, it’s important to remember that the goal is to effectively disrupt your opponent’s play, not just to land a big hit. While a well-timed body check can be a valuable tool, focusing solely on big hits can often lead to missed opportunities and costly mistakes.

Anticipation is key to successful floor checking, and going for big hits can often result in missed opportunities to disrupt your opponent’s play. By focusing too much on delivering a big hit, you may find yourself out of position or off balance, leaving your opponent with a clear path to the net.

Another common mistake is failing to maintain your balance when attempting to deliver a big hit. It’s important to keep your center of gravity low and your feet moving, as this will help you maintain your balance and avoid getting caught out of position.

Timing is also crucial when it comes to floor checking. Focusing solely on delivering big hits can often lead to mistimed checks, leaving you out of position and vulnerable to counter-attacks. Instead, focus on disrupting your opponent’s play through well-timed stick checks and body positioning.

Discipline is another key factor in effective floor checking. While big hits can be tempting, they can also lead to unnecessary penalties and missed opportunities. By focusing on effective floor checking techniques and maintaining discipline, you can help your team stay in control and maintain momentum on the ice.

Ignoring Defensive Responsibilities During Floor Checking in Hockey

While floor checking is an essential part of the game of hockey, it’s important not to lose sight of your defensive responsibilities. One common mistake that players make is focusing too much on checking and neglecting their defensive duties. This can leave your team vulnerable to counterattacks and goals against.

Positioning is key when it comes to balancing your checking and defensive responsibilities. Make sure to maintain proper positioning on the ice and be aware of your surroundings. This will allow you to react quickly to any potential threats and prevent the opposition from capitalizing on any mistakes.

Another common mistake is overcommitting to a check. While it may be tempting to go all out for a big hit, it’s important to remember that your ultimate goal is to prevent the opposition from scoring. Overcommitting to a check can leave you out of position and unable to defend effectively.

Finally, communication is crucial when it comes to balancing your checking and defensive responsibilities. Make sure to communicate with your teammates and let them know where you are on the ice. This will help to prevent confusion and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Using Poor Technique that Results in Penalties During Floor Checking in Hockey

One of the most common mistakes made during floor checking in hockey is using poor technique that often leads to penalties. Technique is a vital component of successful floor checking, and using improper form can result in dangerous and illegal plays.

One common error is not keeping the stick down while checking. This can lead to high-sticking penalties or dangerous hits to the head. Another mistake is leading with the elbows during a check, which can result in a penalty for elbowing.

Hitting from behind is another technique error that results in penalties. When players are checked from behind, they are vulnerable to serious injuries, and referees are quick to call a penalty. Lastly, charging is another penalty resulting from poor technique during floor checking. Charging occurs when a player takes more than a few strides before hitting an opponent, making the hit much more dangerous.

It’s essential to learn proper technique when floor checking in hockey to avoid penalties and protect yourself and your opponents. Coaches and experienced players can provide guidance on proper form and technique to help improve your skills and keep you safe on the ice.

What Coaches Look for When Evaluating Floor Checking Skills in Players

Efficiency: Coaches look for players who use effective and efficient floor checking techniques to disrupt opponents without taking themselves out of the play.

Timing: Coaches also evaluate a player’s timing and anticipation skills, as well as their ability to read the play and react quickly to create turnovers.

Defensive Responsibility: Additionally, coaches look for players who balance their offensive and defensive responsibilities, understanding when to commit to a floor check and when to prioritize defensive positioning.

Ability to Read the Play and Anticipate Opponent Movements in Hockey

Anticipation is a crucial skill for effective floor checking in hockey. Players who can anticipate the opposition’s movements can position themselves correctly to make an interception or disrupt the play. It requires players to be aware of their surroundings and anticipate the opposition’s actions.

One way to improve anticipation is to watch game footage and analyze the opposition’s patterns of play. Coaches can help players develop their anticipation skills by teaching them to recognize patterns and tendencies in the opposition’s play and anticipate their movements accordingly.

Reading the play is another important skill for successful floor checking. Players who can read the play can quickly assess the situation and react accordingly. It involves being aware of the location of all players on the ice, including teammates and opposition players, and predicting where the puck is likely to go.

Reading the play requires a combination of awareness, anticipation, and hockey IQ. Coaches can help players improve their ability to read the play by emphasizing the importance of being aware of their surroundings and making quick decisions based on the situation.

Effective communication is also key to reading the play and anticipating opponent movements. Players who can communicate effectively with their teammates can coordinate their movements and make interceptions or disrupt the play more effectively. Coaches can encourage players to communicate on the ice and practice effective communication strategies during training sessions.

Consistency and Discipline in Floor Checking in Hockey

Consistency is key when it comes to floor checking in hockey. Coaches want to see players consistently executing proper techniques and making smart decisions on the ice. Players who lack consistency may struggle to earn regular playing time or receive fewer opportunities to play in important situations.

Additionally, discipline is crucial in floor checking. Players who take unnecessary penalties, such as boarding or checking from behind, can be a liability to their team. Coaches want players who are able to maintain their composure and stay within the rules while still being aggressive and physical on the ice.

Finally, it’s important for players to understand the role of floor checking in the team’s overall defensive strategy. While it’s important to be aggressive and disrupt the opponent’s offense, players must also be disciplined and responsible in their defensive positioning to prevent giving up scoring opportunities.

Effective Communication with Teammates During Floor Checking in Hockey

Collaboration: Effective floor checking requires teamwork, communication, and collaboration with your teammates. It is important to communicate with your teammates to ensure that everyone is on the same page and to avoid defensive breakdowns.

Clear Instructions: When communicating with your teammates, make sure your instructions are clear and concise. Use specific language and provide information about the opponent’s location, movement, and any potential threats.

Support: Communication also involves offering support to your teammates. Be positive and offer encouragement to boost morale and to help your teammates stay focused and motivated. Support can also involve covering for each other and being ready to step in if a teammate misses a check.

Listening: Effective communication also requires listening to your teammates. Be receptive to their feedback and input, and use it to adjust your floor checking strategy as needed. Listening to your teammates can also help you anticipate opponent movements and avoid mistakes.

Take Your Hockey Game to the Next Level: Mastering Floor Checking

Floor checking is an essential part of hockey that can make a significant difference in the outcome of a game. By mastering this skill, you can take your game to the next level and become a more valuable player on your team.

One of the keys to mastering floor checking is to understand the proper technique and form. This involves using your stick to disrupt your opponent’s movements, timing your checks correctly, and staying in control of your body.

Another important factor in effective floor checking is awareness of the play and anticipating your opponent’s movements. By staying focused and reading the game, you can position yourself in a way that allows you to make the most effective check.

Consistency and discipline are also crucial elements in mastering floor checking. It takes practice and effort to develop this skill, and it requires a commitment to using it consistently throughout the game. With discipline and dedication, you can become a floor checking master.

Finally, it’s essential to communicate with your teammates effectively during floor checking situations. By working together and communicating on the ice, you can maximize your team’s defensive efforts and increase your chances of success.

Off-ice Exercises to Improve Your Floor Checking in Hockey

Plyometric Exercises: Plyometric exercises, such as box jumps and hurdle jumps, can help you develop explosive power needed for floor checking.

Resistance Band Training: Resistance band training can help you develop the muscles needed for effective floor checking, including your core, legs, and upper body.

Agility Drills: Agility drills, such as ladder drills and cone drills, can help you improve your footwork and quickness on the ice, which is crucial for effective floor checking.

Cardiovascular Training: Building your cardiovascular endurance through exercises like running, cycling, or swimming can help you maintain your energy and stamina during long games or extended shifts.

Video Analysis: How to Identify Areas of Improvement in Your Floor Checking in Hockey

Record your games: One of the best ways to identify areas for improvement in your floor checking skills is to record your games and watch them back. Look for opportunities where you could have made a better decision or executed a technique more effectively.

Break down game footage: Use video analysis tools to break down game footage into individual plays or moments. This will help you to focus on specific aspects of your floor checking, such as your timing, positioning, and technique.

Compare your play to others: Watch footage of professional players or teammates who excel in floor checking and compare your own play to theirs. Look for similarities and differences in your approach and technique, and identify areas where you could make improvements.

Frequently Asked Questions