Posts by CoachC
The Stick‑Length Debate: What Coaches Worldwide Are Arguing About
In this episode, we’re taking a fresh look at something every hockey player depends on but few measure correctly — stick length. Instead of guessing or using outdated height charts, we’ll explore a simple, functional method that matches the way players actually skate and handle the puck. If you’ve ever wondered whether your stick helps or hurts your game, this short lesson will give you a clearer, more reliable way to find the perfect fit.
Read MoreMYTH #17: “Hockey IQ can’t be taught.”
IQ grows through repetition, video, guided questions, and learning patterns — just like any other skill.
Read MoreSummer Skills Camps: What Actually Transfers to Real Games?
Every summer, hockey players across North America sign up for hockey skills camps with the goal of becoming better players before the next season begins. Parents invest time and money into skating camps, stickhandling clinics, shooting programs, and specialized development sessions because they want to help their players improve. Coaches often encourage athletes to use the off-season wisely and continue developing their game. The big question, however…
Read MoreBackward Stability on Defense
Here’s another quick CoachChic.com podcast I think my hockey friends will enjoy. It’s all about the posture required of a backward skating defender when he or she has to cover an oncoming attacker.
Read MoreMYTH #16: “Dekes win games.”
EXPLANATION: A deke is just one option — and often not the best one.
Read MoreBlock Out the Tone
With mental toughness always being a key to solid hockey play, we’re thrilled to once again present Shawnee Harle’s monthly insights into that area. And, in this video, she addresses an obvious concern with “Negative Self-talk”!
Read MoreKeys to Building USABLE STRENGTH with Bands
Follow along with Dave as he shows you how to use bands to train your body for more strength and endurance…
Read MoreRespect in Sport, Certifications & League Rules — What Parents Need to Know
If you are a hockey parent, it can sometimes feel like there is a new form, certification, or league requirement waiting around every corner. Between registering for teams, arranging transportation, buying equipment, and supporting your young player, it is easy to overlook important requirements such as Respect in Sport training, coaching certifications, and league rules. However…
Read MoreComing… June 2026
Long‑time hockey friends should know that I create this page each month as a courtesy to my members and potential members, trying to give everyone a sense of what’s “coming” within the next month. (As always, I’ve purposely saved a couple of slots for this coming month, so please keep an eye out for those postings.)
Read MoreHow to Build a Development‑First Mindset in a Results‑Driven Hockey Culture
In today’s hockey world, it can feel like everything revolves around results. Players are judged by goals, points, rankings, and team records almost everywhere they go. Parents sometimes compare ice time, coaches feel pressure to win tournaments, and young hockey players can start believing that success only comes from being the top scorer or making the elite team right away. The problem is that hockey development rarely works in a straight line. Some players grow early, some develop confidence later, and many successful athletes spend years quietly improving before anyone notices.
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