The Power of Self Reflection

When the hockey season ends, whether you’re a coach or a player, you might think it’s time to simply relax and sit back. And, while relaxation is definitely important, it shouldn’t be your only focus when the season ends. In fact, your “off time” is the perfect time to do a little reflection and self examination.   

For young players, hockey coaches should end the season by giving out evaluations for each player. These evaluations should let players know how they can improve in the coming season. However, players are not the only ones who need evaluating and guidance during the off-season. Coaches can also benefit greatly from doing a little self-evaluation.

Coaches should take the time to look over their performance and actions during the season. They should ask themselves what they did well- what worked and was effective for their players and how they can improve on these things even more in the coming season. They should also focus on where they faltered in some way and on how they could stand to do things better and how they can create positive change.

Some helpful questions that coaches can honestly ask themselves include:

l  Did my players improve? If so, what did I do to promote that? What can I do to help them improve even more? If not, how can I be a more effective coach?

l  Did I improve as a coach?

l  Did I manage the team well? What can I do better?

l  Did I handle scheduling well?

l  What are some situations I could have handled differently and how?

Thinking constructively and focusing on actions and behaviors, not on wins and losses, can be extremely helpful when it comes to becoming a better coach. Remember to treat yourself as you would your players- with compassion, understanding, and an attitude of growth and positivity.

PreSeason Planning

Before the start of a new hockey season, it’s always important for players to go through their gear, examining its condition and deciding what can be reused in the coming season, what needs to be repaired, and what needs to be replaced. This is especially important for young players, who often outgrow equipment and gear quickly.

Fitting Tips

Obviously, every piece of equipment needs to fit and fit properly. Improperly fitted safety gear can pose a serious risk to young players on the ice. Fortunately, there are some simple tips for assessing

proper fit:

l  Make sure all safety/protective equipment, such as shoulder pads and shin pads, meet at some point or overlap. If they don’t touch, they’re too small and are leaving areas unprotected!

l  Make sure shin pads are sitting slightly above the foot to allow for movement during play.

l  Pants should come to the middle of the knee when standing.

l  Helmets need to rest just above the eyebrows while masks need to rest on the chin and remain still when hit.

l  Toes should fit comfortably in skates without cramping or curling

Repair Advice

Obviously, there’s no cure for outgrown equipment. It will have to be replaced. Some pieces of gear, however, can simply be repaired, which is nice for parents whose budgets are already stretched to the limit! In general, any simple, small problems, such as tiny holes, missing screws on skates, or pulled threads can be fixed relatively easily. Giving gear a thorough cleaning- some professional services will even do this for you- can also liven it up and make it look better, so that your little player doesn’t have to feel embarrassed on the ice.

Trade and Sell!

As mentioned, hockey gear and equipment can get pretty pricey. That’s why it’s wise to trade and sell where you can, instead of just tossing stuff in the trash. If a piece of equipment is in good shape but has simply been outgrown, see if it fits other kids on the team. You might be able to make a nice trade with the parents. Many stores will also buy used equipment and sell it for you. There are ways to save money on gear, but not giving your child what he needs to be safe and successful should never be one of them!