How to Coach Youth Hockey
Hockey-type games have been played for hundreds of years. The fast pace and constant action make hockey a great sport for people to play and watch. Youth hockey gives children the opportunity to experience this long-loved game in a safe environment.
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Instructions
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Learn the Positions for Youth Hockey
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1
To block the puck from the going into the goal is the primary responsibility of the goaltender as the last line of defense. Goalies should have good reflexes and good vision to keep track of the puck while it is in play.
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2
To score points is the job of the forwards, usually made up of a center and two wingers. These players take the puck to the opposing teams goal.
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3
Teach your two defenders to protect the goal and advance the puck to the forwards.
Coach a Youth Hockey Practice Session
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Coordinate the time and place for the youth hockey team practice session. You will need to alert parents and make arrangements with the local ice rink.
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Write out a plan for the practice session with a time line. For example, stretching for 7 minutes, warm-up skating for 4 minutes and passing drills or games for 8 minutes.
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6
Turn boring drills into fun games and competitions. For example, have players divided into two teams and have them race each other while controlling the puck.
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7
Play a scrimmage game for 10 to 15 minutes and encourage players to use the skills they worked on earlier in practice.
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8
Cool the team down with some post-practice static stretches.
Coach a Youth Hockey Match
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9
Arrive early to make sure everything is in place for the hockey match.
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Remind players of the skills they worked on at practices and how to use them in the match.
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Take the team through pre-game stretches and skating warm-ups.
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Transition players in and out of the game frequently to keep them as fresh as possible.
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Write down notes for areas of improvement at the next hockey practice.
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Point out all of the good plays and contributions by various players for the game.
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Tips & Warnings
Make hockey drills as fun as possible by creating mini-games out of the drills. Create a competition with the winner receiving recognition.
Make the most out of your time on the ice by starting on time for practice.
Focus practice time on refining hockey skills, not playing scrimmage games.
