Michael’s Corner
The Difference Between Hockey Coaches And Trainers
Coaching and Training minor hockey players are two different but equally important aspects of developing young athletes. Both play a crucial role in helping players improve their skills and reach their full potential. At times, I will get into some debates with my colleagues and friends about the roles of a coach or…
Read MoreHockey Parents – Save Your Money!
Many Canadians have an emotional connection to hockey and a financial one too. Every year, parents and players spend hundreds of dollars on equipment, and sometimes that equipment only lasts one season. I wanted to follow up with my last article – Is Minor Hockey In Trouble? with an article to help many…
Read MoreIs Minor Hockey In Trouble?
Is it a sign of changing preferences in minor hockey due to the pandemic, rising costs, competition from rival unsanctioned leagues, or a little bit of everything? It seems like minor hockey is shifting – towards the downwards I will be the first one to tell you that having a kid and maybe…
Read MorePARENTS – TIPS FOR YOUR CHILD WHO “GOT CUT”
Your favourite player didn’t make the team. He/she gave it all they could. There was nothing more left in the tank, for whatever reason, it just wasn’t their day, and got cut. At some point, parents are going to have to learn – Being cut from a team it’s part of playing “Rep” hockey. The…
Read MoreBad Coaching Characteristics to Watch Out For
For the most part, there are tons of great, amazing, and awesome coaches in the minor hockey community. Unfortunately, there is a hand full of coaches that needs to be removed from the bench. This is the main reason why (not only as a person that has a hockey background but as a fellow parent)…
Read MoreSimple Core Exercises for Minor Hockey Players – With Exercise Videos
The problem with Minor Hockey Players is they tend to focus on doing Sit-Ups, Crunches, and other poorly designed exercises. These exercises put a lot of unnecessary compression on the spine and do not teach good positions to transfer to the ice. Before engaging in types of strength and conditioning programs, please seek and consult…
Read MoreMinor Hockey Parents Overestimating Their Child’s Abilities
I’m sure most of us have heard parents when they’re at the rinks for tryouts, practices, games, or training, and you can hear their voices full of frustration, “What’s he/she doing? He/She’s capable of handling him/herself better.” Sound familiar? Does to me, too. Every parent is biased when it comes to their child’s hockey abilities…
Read MoreHow To Buy Hockey Skates
Hockey Skates are arguably one of the most important pieces of equipment for any hockey player. The right size, style, and fit of your skate will allow you to improve your speed, accuracy, and shots and mastering the art of skating. To help you start your journey toward becoming an excellent skater and highly-skilled hockey player,…
Read MoreSimple Drills To Improve Your Skating Stride – With Videos
Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid (image above) is the league’s best player and there are so many factors that make him a top NHL talent. What sets him apart from everyone else is his speed and wide stride that helps him to easily fly past his opponents. Playing hockey in the 80’s and 90’s I…
Read MoreSkate Sharpening Guide For New Hockey Parents and Players
The Image above is at Toronto Pro Shop. Finding a great Pro Shop with a professional skate sharpener is like finding a great car mechanic that knows your vehicle inside out. Build that same relationship, so they can help you find that edge! Thanks to Dennis & Co. At Toronto Pro located in Vaughan. Let…
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