Pass, move, and get open is one of the simplest Hockey habits a young Player can learn. A pass should not end a Player’s involvement in the play. It should start the next movement.
Why Passing and Moving Matters in Hockey
Young Players sometimes pass the puck and stand still to watch what happens. That makes it easier for defenders to cover them and gives their teammate fewer passing options. When a Player moves immediately after passing, the Team can create space, maintain possession and support the puck carrier.
The lesson is not to skate as fast as possible in any direction. The objective is to find useful open ice while remaining available for a return pass.
Coach Joey’s 10-Second Hockey Lesson
Pass the puck. Move your feet. Get open for the next pass.
Three simple actions make the instruction memorable. First, make an accurate pass to a teammate. Next, move into a useful supporting position rather than staying in the same spot. Finally, turn your body, keep your stick ready and show your teammate a safe passing option.
How Coaches Can Teach the Habit
Start with a two-Player passing drill in which both Players must move to a new position after each pass. Once the habit becomes comfortable, add a defender who applies light pressure. The Players must then recognize open space instead of following a fixed skating pattern.
Use one short reminder during practice: “Pass, move, get open.” Praise Players who create a useful passing lane, even when they do not receive the puck. That reinforces the decision, not just the outcome.
Adjust the Lesson by Age and Development Stage
U5–U7: Pass and Take a Few Steps
Keep the instruction simple. After passing, encourage the Player to skate into nearby open ice and face the puck. The main goal is movement and enjoyment, not perfect positioning.
U8–U10: Find a Passing Lane
Introduce the idea of getting away from a defender. Players can learn to move sideways or diagonally to become visible to the puck carrier.
U11–U14: Support Under Pressure
Add decision-making. Sometimes moving closer creates a short passing option; at other times moving wider stretches the defence. Teach Players to scan before choosing.
U15–U18: Read the Next Play
Emphasize timing, spacing and communication. The best supporting movement depends on teammates, defenders and available ice. Moving without purpose can close a passing lane rather than open one.
What Hockey Parents Can Reinforce
After a game, Parents can notice effort and intelligent movement rather than counting only goals and assists. A useful question is, “Did you find open ice after you passed?” Keep the conversation encouraging. Players need room to recognize their own decisions.
The Hockey Resource Takeaway
A Player who passes and stops is easier to defend. A Player who passes, moves, and gets open helps the entire Team. Make this a repeated practice habit and keep the instruction short enough to remember during a game.
As always, thank you for being part of The Hockey Resource Community.
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