Mental Toughness in the Third Period

Mental Toughness in the Third Period

The third period of a hockey game is where legends are made and where games are often decided. Players who have prepared mentally as well as physically are the ones who rise above fatigue, pressure, and momentum swings. It is easy to play with energy in the first period when legs are fresh and the score is even, but…

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Techniques for Shielding the Puck

Techniques for Shielding the Puck

Shielding the puck, or learning how to keep it safe from defenders, is a foundational skill that every great hockey player develops early. Teaching this concept to young players is less about complicating things and more about making the process fun, engaging, and repeatable so that it becomes second nature as they grow in the game…

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Improving Off-Puck Positioning for More Scoring Chances

Improving Off-Puck Positioning for More Scoring Chances

Off-puck positioning starts with awareness. Too many young players get caught staring at the puck, following it around like it has a magnet attached. That habit leaves you out of position and easy to defend. Instead, the best players are constantly scanning the ice…

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Stats That Coaches Should Actually Use

Stats That Coaches Should Actually Use

Hockey has always been a sport filled with numbers, and coaches at every level often look to statistics for guidance. The problem is that not all stats are created equal. Some numbers look impressive on paper but…

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The Emotional Timeline of a Game

The Emotional Timeline of a Game

Understanding this emotional timeline can help players keep their focus, manage pressure, and perform at their best no matter the situation. From the moment athletes step into the locker room to the final buzzer, emotions rise and fall in waves that can either fuel success or create unnecessary mistakes if not handled properly…

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The Coach’s Sketchbook and Drawing Plays That Stick

The Coach’s Sketchbook and Drawing Plays That Stick

A simple drawing can transform a jumble of instructions into a clear visual that sticks in the minds of players. Whether you’re coaching at the youth level or working with seasoned athletes, the ability to sketch plays that players can instantly understand is one of the most valuable tools you can have…

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The Geometry of Great Plays

The Geometry of Great Plays

Hockey is a sport of speed, strength, and creativity, but at its core, it is also a game of geometry. While it might not seem obvious during the chaos of a shift, the best plays are built on angles, spacing, and positioning.

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