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Welcome to the Hockey Season

By Mike MacMillan - National Coach in Chief, 08/29/13, 11:30AM MDT

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With the 2013-14 hockey season almost upon us, it is with great excitement that we are launching – THE COACHING NEWS!

The Coaching News will keep coaches across the country updated with the latest news and provide tips and resources to make your season successful.

As you prepare for the upcoming season it is time to focus on planning and preparation. This issue of The Coaching News will give you ideas and suggestions on how to execute a season plan for you, your team and coaching staff. Our newly updated coaching website offers exciting information to help you plan for the year.

In addition to the great information on our website, you may also subscribe to the free USA Hockey Mobile Coach App: http://mobilecoach.usahockey.com. New for this year, you can add the USA Hockey Skills and Drills on and off ice set to the App for a nominal fee.

In preparation for the season it is important to remember two very important things that need to be completed not only to be a coach, but more importantly, to assist in your development as a coach: 

  1. Depending on your level of certification and expiration date, you may need to attend a coaching clinic for the upcoming season. You can find the list of coaching clinics currently available in this section
  2. Online Age-Specific Modules need to be taken as well. Remember you only need to complete each module once. If you are coaching multiple age levels you will need to complete a module for each age level you coach.

You should also be aware of USA Hockey Safesport, a comprehensive off-ice safety program that is a critical element to the overall well being of our sport. We strongly encourage coaches to check out the SafeSsport module at: http://usahockey.com/SafeSport. Although not required by USA Hockey for the upcoming season, some associations may be requiring coaches to participate, so ask your local club or association.

We as an organization will provide you with the support you need as a coach. The Coaching Education Program has vast resources to assist you and your fellow coaches. If you have questions, please feel free to reach out to your District Coach-In-Chief.

As we all prepare to step on the ice for the 2013-14 season, let’s focus on making this year the best hockey season the kids will experience in their hockey careers. As players leave the ice after a practice or game they should be itching to get back to the rink. Each and every time! As a coach you have an unbelievable influence, not only on their skill development and growth, but more importantly in creating their “Love of the Game.” If you are passionate, caring and love the game, so will your players.

See You At The Rink!