While defensemen say that “We may not get all the glory, but we can grunt out the victories,” they do jump in and score some points—either assists or goals. When the game is on the line, you’re the captain of the ship. Demand and want the puck on your stick. It’s not a hot potato. Have confidence that you can make it happen. A good defenseman can take charge and lead by example. Examples of when to jump in include:
- Down a goal. You have to take more chances to create offense or get your team a goal.
- Pinching in the offensive end. I was always told to pinch if I was 90% sure I could keep the puck in. If you are on the point, the puck is in the opposite corner, and they wrap it all the way around to where you are, you always pinch. If the puck is on the boards near your winger, you can pinch—if you have a forward back to cover for you. Communicate (read: yell) at your forwards to cover for you.
- When a forward shoots the puck on goal. Be ready to sneak in and pick up a garbage goal or knock a big rebound in. You can be in the high slot area and then jump in; if there is no play, get back to your position.
Roughly 65% of my prep school, college and pro practices were devoted to defense. Take pride in it!
Editor’s Note: Jeff Serowik is an NHL defensemen who retired from the Pittsburgh Penguins and went on to found Pro Ambitions Hockey Camps. For the last 11 years, he has worked to simplify and share the hockey knowledge that took him 25 years to figure out. His specialty and passion are defense, and he tries to personally teach as many Defense Camps as possible.
What parents, NHL players such as Martin Brodeur and NHL coaches like Joe Sacco say about Pro Ambitions: He came back a changed player: More confident, a harder shot, poised and in control…One of the most effective camps I have experienced…The high-paced tempo and top-notch instruction was fantastic…Learned a tremendous amount that no doubt will improve his defensive skills…My boy thinks the world of you…Your instructors are fine young men and great role models for the kids…My son had a blast…You really helped him mentally and as a player…The overall experience, your staff and the defense skills were fantastic…Your camp runs like a well-oiled machine…Best clinic that he has ever attended…You manage to capture the essence of what it is like to live, breathe and dream hockey.