Absorbing pressure is the ability to control the puck when an opponent applies forward force during a contest. Instead of meeting pressure with force, the player receives that pressure, softens it, and redirects the puck into a controllable space.
This skill is important because players often lose possession by trying to push directly back into the opponent. A better outcome comes from bending the arm slightly, staying balanced, and guiding the puck in the direction it is already traveling. This reduces the impact of the contest and helps the player keep control.
Absorbing pressure is commonly used when an opponent is driving onto the puck from in front, from the side, or during any moment where direct resistance would lead to a collision or loss of shape. It is a control skill first, and should be learned before speed or intensity is added.
Demo video coming soon!
Players use absorbing pressure whenever an opponent applies force onto the puck and there is an opportunity to control the outcome instead of colliding. This often happens during 1v1 contests, recovery moments, or when an opponent tries to drive through the puck with speed.
To absorb pressure well, the player should stay balanced, keep the puck close, and allow the opponent’s momentum to come into the contest. Instead of pushing back, the player bends the arm, softens the contact, and guides the puck into a safer direction. The goal is to maintain possession and emerge from the contest in control.
Players often make the mistake of trying to meet force with force. This usually creates a harder collision, makes the puck harder to control, and can cause the player to lose balance. Coaches should reinforce that the purpose is to reduce force, not fight it.
Players should also avoid reaching too far away from the body while absorbing pressure. If the arm gets too extended, the player loses strength and control over the puck. The puck should stay close enough that the player can redirect it smoothly and protect it immediately after the contest.
It is also important that players do not panic after absorbing the first contact. The skill is only complete when the puck is settled into controllable space and the player is ready to continue play.
The black team player absorbs the pressure and redirects the puck instead of colliding with the white player’s momentum.
Example clip placeholder: player redirects the puck with the flow of pressure, then secures possession and exits the contest in control.
ABSORBING PRESSURE