Posts by CoachC
Late Bloomers in Hockey Training
In the world of hockey, players often develop at very different speeds. Some seem to dominate early, skating faster, shooting harder, and standing taller than everyone else. Others, though, might take a little longer to grow into their game. These are the late bloomers, the players who might not catch everyone’s attention at age twelve…
Read MoreHigh School Hockey Periodization Guide
High school hockey is one of the most demanding levels of the game, balancing academics, athletics, and personal growth all at once. Periodization is a science-based approach to training that organizes the year into manageable phases. It ensures players are performing their best when it matters most, such as during playoffs, while still staying healthy and motivated throughout the year…
Read MoreCoach Chic’s Hockey Podcast 68
Don’t forget to grab all you can from this awesome site, and make this coming month one to truly remember…
Read MoreBreaking the Pressure Cycle and Resetting After a Mistake
Every hockey player, no matter how talented or experienced, has made a mistake that felt like the end of the world in the middle of a game. Maybe it was a turnover that led to a goal, a missed open net, or a bad penalty that gave the other team momentum. What often happens next is what really matters…
Read MoreComing… November 2025
Folks should know I create this page as sort of a courtesy, trying to give visitors a sense of what’s “coming” within the next month…
Read MoreLow Slot Attack Strategies
In hockey, few places on the ice are as dangerous — or as rewarding — as the low slot. It’s the area directly in front of the net, where goals are most often scored and where defenders fight the hardest to protect their territory. Mastering how to attack from this zone is one of the surest ways to elevate offensive play, and understanding the strategies that make it work can help any player or coach turn scoring opportunities into consistent results…
Read MoreMastering the “Quiet Shift
Mastering what’s called the “quiet shift” separates those who play the game from those who understand it. A quiet shift isn’t about doing less; it’s about doing everything with intention, precision, and balance. It’s the ability to influence the flow of a game without needing to stand out on every play.
Read MoreVoice of the Bench — Communicating Under Pressure on the Ice
From the bench to the ice, the sounds of players calling for passes, coaches shouting adjustments, and teammates cheering one another create the rhythm of a game. That communication can be the difference between a team that reacts late and one that anticipates every play. The best teams sound alive, connected, and focused, with everyone sharing one goal: staying organized and confident even under pressure. When the pace picks up and decisions must be made in fractions of a second, communication becomes more than noise — it becomes the heartbeat of success…
Read MoreA Hockey Strong Sandwich
We’re diving into the world of hockey nutrition here, with Kimberly Smith Lukehard monthly sharing essential tips on fueling for performance, and ensuring you’re at your best, both on and off the ice.
For this month, she’s providing us advice on “A Hockey Strong Sandwich”…
The Role of Micro-Habits in Hockey
Hockey is often seen as a game of speed, skill, and strength, but what truly separates the good from the great are the little things players do when no one is watching. These small, consistent actions—known as micro-habits—can be the secret ingredient behind long-term success. Micro-habits are the simple routines that shape who you become on and off the ice…
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