A Coach’s Notebook
The New Goalie Crisis — Why Fewer Kids Want the Position
Across youth hockey, coaches, parents, and league organizers are noticing a growing problem. Fewer kids want to play goalie. In many areas, teams struggle to find a dedicated goaltender, and some organizations are forced to rotate players through the position just to get through a season. This trend has created what many people are calling a goalie crisis…
Read MoreUsing Video to Improve Your Game
Long before video became common in youth hockey, I discovered how slowing plays down, freezing frames, and studying movement could reveal things the naked eye simply can’t catch in real time.
Read MoreThe Parent–Coach Communication Reset for 2026
Youth hockey continues to evolve every year, but one thing remains constant: strong communication between parents and coaches can make a huge difference in a player’s development and overall experience. As we move into 2026, many hockey organizations are encouraging families and coaches to take a fresh look at how they communicate with one another. The goal is simple. Create an environment where players can focus on learning, improving, competing, and enjoying the game without unnecessary stress or conflict
Read MoreHow to Teach ‘Scanning’ When Kids Don’t Naturally Look Up
One of the most common challenges in youth hockey is teaching players to look up while handling the puck. Many young players become so focused on controlling the puck that they rarely notice what is happening around them. As a result, they miss open teammates, skate into pressure, and struggle to make smart decisions during games. Coaches often tell players to “keep your head up,” but for many kids, that instruction alone is not enough. Learning to scan the ice is a skill, and like every other hockey skill, it can be taught, practiced, and improved over time.
Read MoreThe Real Reason So Many Players Plateau Between Ages 11 and 14
It happens all the time between the ages of 11 and 14. A player who was scoring goals, making teams, and gaining confidence can suddenly seem stuck. Their skating may stop improving as quickly. Their puck skills may look the same year after year. Their confidence may even begin to slip. Parents start wondering what happened. Coaches become concerned. Players often become discouraged. The truth is that this hockey development plateau is incredibly common, and understanding why it happens can help players continue growing instead of becoming frustrated.
Read MoreThe 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 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 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…
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