As in pass reception, the blade of the stick cups the puck when you are stick handling. This applies to both the forehand and backhand motion in stick handling.

You will be a more dangerous player if you have a wide range of motion when you're stick handling. This makes it easier to pull the puck out of the reach of your oponents, yet while maintaining control.

    o drill: stick handing on the spot for 30 seconds.    o drill: w-i-d-e stick handing on the spot for 30 seconds.    o drill: stick handle in a figure-8 fashion around your               gloves while remaining stationary.    o drill: stick handle around a row of pilons.  Make a               move on each pilon as you approach it.  Be               convincing!  Practice the fake to both the               forehand and backhand.