Mastering Deceptive Hockey Skills: Look-offs, Change of Pace, and Fake Passes Explained

In hockey, the difference between a good player and a great one often comes down to subtle moves that confuse opponents and create scoring chances. Developing deceptive skills like look-offs, changing pace, and fake passes can transform a player’s game. These techniques are not about raw speed or power but about outsmarting defenders and goalies. Teaching these skills in small groups allows coaches to focus on every detail, making it easier to correct habits and sharpen execution.

Player executing a look-off to mislead opponent

Look-offs: The Art of Misdirection with Your Eyes

Look-offs are one of the simplest yet most effective deceptive skills in hockey. They involve using your eyes to mislead defenders and goalies about your next move. Instead of staring directly at your intended target, you glance elsewhere to create doubt and hesitation.

Why Look-offs Matter

Defenders rely heavily on reading a player’s eyes and body language to anticipate passes or shots. A well-timed look-off can freeze a defender for a split second, opening passing lanes or shooting opportunities. Goalies also watch players’ eyes to predict where the puck will go, so a convincing look-off can throw them off balance.

How to Teach Look-offs

• Start slow: Have players practice looking away from their target while maintaining puck control.

• Use drills with defenders: Small group settings allow coaches to observe how players’ eyes influence defenders’ reactions.

• Combine with body language: Players should pair look-offs with subtle body movements to sell the fake.

• Practice timing: The look-off should happen just before the pass or shot to maximize confusion.

  
  

Example Drill

Set up two defenders and one attacker in a small area. The attacker practices looking off one defender while passing to the other. The coach watches closely and gives feedback on eye movement and timing.

Change of Pace: Controlling the Game with Speed Variation

Changing pace means varying your skating speed to keep opponents guessing. Instead of skating at a constant speed, players accelerate or decelerate suddenly to create space or catch defenders off guard.

Why Change of Pace Works

Hockey is a fast game, but constant speed makes a player predictable. A sudden burst of speed or a quick slowdown can disrupt defenders’ timing and positioning. This skill is especially useful in breakaways, one-on-one battles, and when entering the offensive zone.

Teaching Change of Pace

• Focus on acceleration: Teach players to explode from a slow start rather than just skating fast all the time.

• Use cone drills: Set up cones for players to skate through, alternating between slow approaches and quick bursts.

• Encourage awareness: Players should learn to read defenders’ positions and decide when to speed up or slow down.

• Small group feedback: Coaches can watch each player’s technique closely and suggest improvements.

  
  

Practical Tip

Encourage players to practice changing pace while handling the puck. This combination makes it harder for defenders to predict moves and increases scoring chances.

Player accelerating with puck to change pace on ice

Fake Passes: Creating Opportunities by Selling the Fake

Fake passes are a powerful way to manipulate defenders and goalies. By pretending to pass in one direction, players can draw defenders away from their real target or open shooting lanes.

The Impact of Fake Passes

A well-executed fake pass forces defenders to commit to the wrong side, creating space for teammates or the puck carrier. It also forces goalies to shift prematurely, increasing the chance of scoring.

How to Coach Fake Passes

• Emphasize body positioning: Players should position their shoulders and stick as if they are about to pass.

• Practice stick handling: Quick stick movements help sell the fake.

• Use small group drills: Coaches can observe subtle details like eye focus and body weight shifts.

• Combine with look-offs: Using eye movement with fake passes makes the deception more believable.

  
  

Example Drill

Set up a triangle of players. The puck carrier practices fake passes to one teammate before passing to another. Coaches watch for convincing body language and timing.

Why Small Group Coaching Makes a Difference

Deceptive skills rely on subtle details that are hard to spot in large groups. Small group coaching allows instructors to:

• See every player’s technique closely

• Provide immediate, personalized feedback

• Correct habits before they become ingrained

• Create realistic game-like scenarios for practice

  
  

This focused environment accelerates learning and helps players build confidence in using deception during games.