Step by step plan for your skills development

Step 1: 1-on-1 Evaluation with the Coach

• Reach out to your coach to schedule a session focused on detailed performance analysis.

• Prepare any questions or concerns about your gameplay.

• Share recent game or practice footage with your coach beforehand for review.

• The coach will highlight key moments that demonstrate strengths and areas for improvement.

• Discuss specific skills or tactics that need to be developed.

Step 2: Develop a Personalized Training Plan

• Identify Key Improvement Areas: Tackle one or two areas at a time for targeted progress. It can be skating, shooting, stickhandling, passing or game strategy.

• Establish a regular training routine that fits your lifestyle.

• Include a mix of on-ice practice, off-ice conditioning, and rest.

• Use diverse drills to keep training engaging and effective.

• Choose age-appropriate and skill-level-appropriate exercises, don't follow fancy exercises from NHL players.

• Ensure access to the right gear for both on-ice and off-ice work.

• Create progress goals to track improvement.

• Celebrate achievements to maintain motivation.

Step 3: Incorporate Diverse Hockey Activities

• On-Ice: Team Practices, Private Lessons, Public Ice

• Off-Ice: Physical Training, At-Home Skill Work, Mental Prep

• Cross-Training: Play soccer or basketball to improve agility and coordination.

• Educational activities: Participate in specialized clinics targeting specific skills, watch professional games to learn strategies and techniques.

Step 4: Regular Progress Reviews

3-Month / 6-month / 9 month Check

• Get an updated assessment from the coach and adjust as needed.

• Set goals for the next season and discuss potential advancement.

*Best Practices for Skill Development

!!! Focus on Fundamentals

• Prioritize proper technique over speed or power.

• Repeat drills to build muscle memory.

!!! Quality Over Quantity

• Opt for effective, shorter practices to avoid fatigue.

• Maintain enthusiasm.

!!! Encourage Communication

• Regularly discuss progress and any adjustments with the coach.

• Be open to tweaking the plan based on feedback.

!!! Create a Positive Environment

• Provide encouragement and avoid unnecessary pressure.

• Recognize hard work, even if immediate results aren't visible, encourage yourself.

Additional Tips👀

• Stay connected with the hockey community to share tips and experiences.

• Prioritize physical and mental well-being throughout training.