Players who display selflessness and encourage their teammates on a consistent basis reinforce those messages and make it more enjoyable for everyone to come to the rink. “The word favorite has connotations in sport of inequality or unfairness,” said Christian Koelling, USA Hockey Coach-in-Chief for the Minnesota District. But the truth is every coach has […]

Even greater health benefits can be realized when a balanced nutrition routine is followed in addition to taking a multi-vitamin/mineral supplement. Although we agree with a food-first philosophy when it comes to fueling young athletes, we also realize it is can be challenging for young athletes to put in place a perfect fueling plan. Time […]

“Since implementing this program we have noticed a significant increase in our athletes’ ability to remained focused for longer periods of time in practice.” Yoga is becoming more common in training regiments for junior athletes. Coaches are finding that their athletes’ overall mental, physical, and even inspirational well-being improve as a result of incorporating yoga […]

The changes in direction will stimulate and help the brain to process, which will pay off at later stages of speed and skating development. Purpose: To emphasize speed and change-of-direction training in a fun, athletic agility course. Also, to add introductory body-contact techniques. Drill Structure/Coaching Points: Set up drill as shown. X1 and X2 should start belly […]

“We’ve gotten better when more NHL coaches have gotten involved in the coaching program, gotten more involved in the ADM. We’re better when the college coaches get involved.” USA Hockey continues to use innovative ways to connect coaches to education and resources for the development of young players. First, USAHockey.com has information about the American Development Model […]

“There are certain things we can control as officials; That’s being professional, that’s being good communicators and being honest and trying to work the best game we can.” Keith Kaval took his warmup lap on the ice and the only thing he could think about before officiating one of the biggest games of his career […]

Abundance of sponsorships keep hockey in northern Minnesota town affordable

It’s critical for coaches set expectations for their team and lead by example. Coaches play a key role in player safety on and off the ice. In fact, they are considered the primary responsible party for the team in the hockey environment – whether they are present or not when an incident occurs. This means […]

“When your legs aren’t strong enough, a player will begin to cheat and use incorrect form. When a player is tired that’s when they start to form bad habits.” Whether it’s a race for a loose puck, a burst in the corners to maintain puck possession, or quick footwork during transitions, the importance of skating […]

By gauging their academic and cultural fit athletes can start building a list of potential schools