Why was The Hockey School Program Developed?
The HP Hockey School Program was development because of the current program offerings such as the Community House Leagues are more based on the focus on recreational hockey for all. Though they do have competitive programs they do limit participation based on a child’s age regardless if the child is capable and able to compete at that an older age level.
Another issue is that those that have excelled with the community-based program have no choice to seek private development because the community-based programs are not challenging enough, the coach to player ratio is too large, and the on-ice instruction is conducted by mainly volunteer parents that may or may not have been trained on how to teach.
The main issue with the private development offering is that they are drop-in sessions that don’t have a set, consistent attendance or curriculum. Therefore, learning progression is not consistent.
The Hockey School Program has been developed by people who have been in Hockey Development and Coaching at House League, AAA and Junior Level for over 25 years. The Curriculum Plan has been developed by a trained school teacher who has also Played at the Junior Level as well as coached for over 10 years at the AAA level.
Our Mission
To pursue the development of children as hockey players, but more importantly as people, sharing our core values of commitment, discipline, professionalism, work ethic, team work, sharing, growing, mutual respect, integrity, loyalty, and fun.
To be the place to develop their hockey skills as well as their life skills, because of what we stand for, because of what we offer to players, coaches/instructors and parents, and because we care.
Programs Available
1. Grassroots Development - This program is an introductory skills program for those that have the ability to skate - 2018, 2019, and 2020 birth year - Player to instructor ratio will be 6-8 max.
2. Full Ice Preparation Development Competitive Program - For those who have progressed through the Grassroots program of equivalent. This program has developed a program for families who want to help their child develop the skills, abilities, and confidence to play
Full-Ice Competitive Hockey. The HP Program is for ages 2017, 2018, and 2019 - Player to instructor ratio will be 6-8 max.. The program starts in September 2024.
3. Goaltender Development Program - A very cost efficient and effective Introductory Gaoltender Development program for those who want to become goaltenders. It is encouraged to supplment this program with the HDG with 1 or 2 above.
Program Overview
As part of our program at The Hockey School, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive training that equips players with the essential skills needed for success on the ice. Our curriculum is designed to foster the development of well-rounded hockey players who can confidently contribute to their teams in all aspects of the game. At The Hockey School, we understand the importance of mastering individual skills as the foundation for overall success in hockey.
Therefore, our program places a strong emphasis on the following key areas:
Skating Mastery SKM
We prioritize skating as the cornerstone of our curriculum, ensuring that players develop strong foundational skills such as proper stance, edge control, and efficient forward and backward skating techniques. Through structured drills and exercises, players will enhance their agility, speed, and balance on the ice, enabling them to maneuver effectively in various game situations.
Puck Control Proficiency PCP
Our program emphasizes the importance of puck control in maintaining possession and creating scoring opportunities. Players will learn advanced stickhandling techniques, including lateral, front-to-back, and diagonal maneuvers, empowering them to navigate through defenders with confidence and precision.
Passing and Receiving Excellence PRE
We place a strong emphasis on developing crisp passing and receiving skills to facilitate effective teamwork and offensive play. Through targeted drills and simulations, players will refine their forehand and backhand passing abilities, as well as master the art of receiving passes cleanly under pressure.
Shooting Accuracy and Power SAP
The program includes intensive training on shooting techniques to help players become proficient goal scorers. Players will learn the mechanics of wrist shots and backhand shots, honing their accuracy and power to effectively challenge opposing goaltenders.
Tactical Awareness and Body Contact TAB
In addition to individual skills, we focus on enhancing players' tactical understanding of the game and their ability to read and react to different situations on the ice. The program also introduces principles of body contact, teaching players how to use their bodies effectively to gain an advantage while maintaining respect for opponents and the rules of the game. Players will better understand the flow of the game, anticipate plays, and make effective decisions to support their team's strategy. It involves both individual and team-based comprehension of offensive and defensive strategies, positioning, and situational awareness.
Leadership and Accountability
Focus – Effort – Discipline – Intensity…. Hard Work = Success!
One final Habit to work on: Being a good teammate, and by extension emerging as a leader in the locker room.
It’s embracing a true team concept, understanding how one fits into the team and figuring out how the team can be greater than the sum of its parts. The ability to challenge each other as well as being good teammates. Not only having the physical skills but having some compassion for teammates. How do we make our teammates better? What kind of listening skills does one have?
It’s at least in part about showing up, putting in the work and giving full effort to a sport in order to get the maximum in return. We are obviously biased in a good way about what hockey does for individuals in general, but these are life skills. It’s not east to play our game, but it gives us so many things to carry on throughout our lives. It’s about working hard, being accountable to your teammates and constantly developing those skills that will give you a rewarding experience.