An example of a short drill as noted by Mike Hartman and Sam Mercurio in ‘STAY IN SHAPE BUT HAVE FUN’ is to “work on little things like stickhandling. Take out a golf ball and stickhandle in driveway for an hour or so. Controlling golf ball will further enhance your hand-eye coordination and, again, you will be amazed at difference when you step back onto ice in fall” (www.hockeycoach.com). For all practical purposes, all you need for stick handling improvement is your hockey stick and something to hit. Common choices for something to hit can be: golf ball (as stated before), tennis ball, roller hockey ball or puck, racket or hand ball, or any comparable sized object in your vicinity. Balls tend to work best for drills off ice because ball naturally returns to shooter, depending on where you are practicing.

Our best tips for enjoying backcountry in rain can be separated into two categories. The first pertains to getting ready to hike, camp or whatever else you love to do outdoors. Here are Best Outdoor Preparation Tips:

1.Always check weather forecast. Understanding type of rain to expect may even determine whether you go or not. If forecast calls for severe thunderstorms with tornados, you will probably plan differently than you might for scattered showers. Check before you go, and check when you’re there. A good weather radio is an essential piece of gear for backcountry recreation. 2.Store everything you take in re-sealable plastic bags, especially socks, matches, flares, food, maps and your first aid kit. 3.Pack your sleeping bag in a large plastic trash bag or a specially designed waterproof bag. 4.Pack a brimmed waterproof hat and jacket. Always have rain gear with you, even if it is only a large trash bag. 5.Treat your tent, hat, jacket and pack with waterproofing spray – even if they’re called “waterproof” to begin with. 6.For two weeks prior to your trip, be sure to take your multi-vitamins. You should be doing this regardless. A good immune system is an outdoor enthusiast’s best friend.