Air hockey is a great way to challenge the guys and yourself whilst having loads of fun and knocking back a few beers, as who knows it could even be your hidden talent.
Master these three moves, and put any self-proclaimed air hockey champion to bed with your skills and cat like reflexes by using these tips from Air Hockey World Championships Master Elite, Travis Luscombe.
The Grip
Plant your index and ring fingers firmly in the groove between the knob and the rim of the mallet, your middle finger should bend slightly; with the knuckle touching the knob.
Your thumb and pinkie should rest outside the mallet; move the mallet by turning your wrist, not your hand. As this allows you to react faster to the puck.
The Defence
Hold the mallet about a foot from the goal and don’t sweep too far to chase the puck,as you’ll leave yourself open.
When you want to block a shot, tap the puck lightly to keep it on your side, and then observe your opponent’s position before firing back
The Offence
If your opponent is guarding the goal closely, attack him with straight shots to either corner of the goal. If he usually keeps his mallet out away from the goal, bank the puck off the side rail. This makes it easier for the puck to travel around and behind the mallet before he can bring it back to block the goal.
Remember not to- smash the puck and hope for the best, slow down, study your opponent and wait for your time to strike and most importantly have fun!
-Alice Paulse
