Our friends in Minnesota have compiled perhaps the best Youth Hockey resources on the web ... all in one place.
Link to Toronto Sun Article about youth hockey.
Small area games are all the rage in youth hockey. For good reason as they develop game skills and are FUN! This free printable guide is an excellent resource.
Hey coach -- what is your team's record? Use this document to make your record more than about only wins and losses.
A great way for peewee and above coaches to track player shots and help players understand the importance of shooting angles and protecting the net.
Ever tell a player to, "go up the boards, through the red zone and break for the slot...." only to have them look even more confused. This diagram shows Rink Zones by their common names.
A coach's plea for players to "play their POSITION" can fall on deaf ears if the players do not understand the basics of each position. This diagram shows common areas covered by each position.
Since our levels (mites, squirts, etc) are by age group characteristics of the age groups involved should dictate appropriate and effective coaching and teaching strategies to use.
Developmental research (from the University of California) suggests that certain types of learning activities are best suited for certain children's capabilities.
At the coaches meeting each coach was given developmental infomation about the players on their team. The work is educational and intended for teachers -- but is it echoed by USA Hockey's ACE Program. Introducing players to concepts and skills when they are ready for them is important. There are links below to helpful resources and suggestions for each age group. [Source: Univ. of California]