Centre (ice hockey)

Centre or Center in hockey is a forward position of a player whose primary zone of play is the middle of the ice, away from the side boards. Centres have more flexibility in their positioning and are expected to cover more ice surface than any other player. Centres are ideally faster skaters who can backcheck quickly from deep in the opposing zone.

Offensive Zone Play

Centres position themselves in front or behind the net.

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Front of net positioning

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If the defence has the puck, the Centre should use the opportunity to screen the goalie. A shot can then be taken by the Defence and the Centre can step out of the way or deflect it with his or her stick.

Related Topics:
Screen - Goalie - Shot

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The centre can also use front of the net positioning to draw a penalty (cause the opposing team to get a penalty). This is done by standing firmly in front of the net. Because the opposing defence's job is to remove players from the front of the net, they may get frustrated with the Centre's perseverance and become too aggressive in removeing him or her, leading to their penalty call. Caution: Centres should stay out of the goal crease otherwise they may get the penalty.

Related Topics:
Penalty - Goal crease

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Back of the net positioning

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When a Centre's Winger is being attacked along the boards, the Centre can position him/herself behind the net. Once he or she receives a pass behind the net, he or she can make a quick pass to a waiting Winger in front of the net. The Centre can also look for a pinching defencemen to pass to.

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