Abstract: A mechanical athletic training device includes a mobile carriage with a locking device which locks the mobile carriage in a stationary position. An opponent simulator, such as a hockey stick, is connected to the mobile carriage by a pivoting connection. The mobile carriage combined with the pivoting connection allows the opponent simulator to interact with an athlete by simulating the movements and actions of a defensive or offensive player. The mobile carriage combined with the pivoting connection forces the athlete to anticipate the movements of the opponent simulator and play through the opponent simulator rather than around it. The opponent simulator can be activated manually by the athlete by striking the opponent simulator. Alternatively, the opponent simulator can be manually operated by an operator using a handle device attached to the pivoting connection. As a further alternative, an electric motor can be attached to the pivoting connection to automatically impart motion to the opponent simulator.