Don’t forget to grab all you can from this awesome site, and make this coming month one to truly remember…
With mental toughness always being a key to solid hockey play, we’re thrilled to once again present Shawnee Harlee’s monthly insights into that area. And, in this entry video, she addresses the well worn question, “My bad! My Bad!”
High-intensity interval training, or HIIT, is one of the most effective ways to build conditioning that matches the fast, explosive, stop-and-go nature of hockey. Instead of long, steady cardio sessions that don’t reflect how hockey is actually played, HIIT uses short bursts of intense movement followed by controlled recovery periods, giving players a way to mimic real shifts and prepare their bodies for the constant changes in intensity that happen during a game.
Safe plyometrics are becoming one of the most valuable tools for hockey players who want to build stronger skating power, quicker acceleration, and more explosive movement patterns on the ice. Many young athletes hear the word “plyometrics” and immediately think of high box jumps or difficult drills they see on social media, but real plyometric training doesn’t start with extreme exercises. It starts with learning how to jump and land safely, because the goal is to build power, not create injuries…
Understanding how multi-sport balance supports long-term growth can help families create a smarter approach that protects their young athlete’s passion, motivation, and physical safety. When families find the right balance, kids often perform better in hockey and enjoy their training more throughout the year.
Tryouts are one of the most stressful times in the hockey year, not only for players but also for parents and coaches. The tension doesn’t come just from competing for a spot, but from the uncertainty that surrounds the process. Families want clarity, players want fairness, and coaches want a smooth evaluation period where athletes can perform their best. A huge part of making that happen is strong communication.
Most teens already know sleep is important, but many don’t realize just how closely sleep is connected to their strength, reaction time, mood, learning ability, and long-term athletic development. For hockey players who balance school, practices, games, training sessions, and travel, sleep isn’t just something nice to have — it is one of the biggest competitive advantages available…
Creating an inclusive locker room culture in hockey is one of the most powerful ways to improve team chemistry, individual confidence, and overall performance. A locker room should never feel like a place of stress, worry, or judgment…
In a sport where toughness and resilience are valued, it can be tempting for players to shrug off a hit to the head or try to get back on the ice before they’re truly ready. But concussions are brain injuries, and unlike a sore shoulder or a bruised knee, they need careful time and attention to heal properly. Understanding how to safely return after a concussion isn’t just about protecting a season—it’s about protecting the player’s long-term health and future in the game…