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Bringing together the best and brightest

A BFL Female Coach of the Year recipient, Amy de Bree organized a webinar series that gathered a diverse group of leaders and athletes and elevated the voices of women in sport

Jason La Rose
|
September 24, 2020

Like so many other great ideas in 2020, the genesis of the Women in Sport Speaker Series came from finding ways to pass the time at home during the early weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic.

While some Canadians binge-watched their favourite shows or read a good book, Amy de Bree set about to use her newfound free time in a more fulfilling way.

“I spent a lot of time watching webinar series and just really trying to find a way to use the time to better myself, both as an individual and as a leader and as a coach,” she says. “And what I noticed was that as I watched all of these webinars, the female voices were really missing.

“I knew that there were some amazing women doing some great things in coaching and in really all aspects of sport from the research side to the business side. And so I wanted to give an opportunity for these women to actually have a voice.”

De Bree is herself one of those amazing women doing some great things in coaching. In addition to her teaching position at Sir Winston Churchill Secondary School in Vancouver, she is video coordinator for the women’s hockey team at the University of British Columbia, and coaches in the Vancouver Thunderbirds Minor Hockey Association and Vancouver Female Ice Hockey Association.

Add in her time with the B.C. Hockey provincial program, which has included roles as assistant coach at the 2019 National Women’s Under-18 Championship and as head coach at the 2017 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships, along with a handful of provincial camps, and de Bree spends an awful lot of time behind the bench.

“I truly enjoy the game,” she says of why she coaches. “I enjoy approaching the game from different ways. But even more than that, I really just enjoy working with kids. I enjoy helping them reach their potential, whatever that avenue may be. As a teacher, I get to do that every day. And as a coach, we get a different angle to that.”

With her passion and her experience, it was little surprise – except to de Bree herself, who says she was shocked to get a call from Team Canada legend Cassie Campbell-Pascall – that she was selected as the B.C. winner of the BFL Female Coach of the Year Award in the high performance category.

While the national recognition was great, it was the $1,000 monetary prize that pushed de Bree to make her seminar idea a reality and move on to the next step – putting together a list of speakers.

She went to work reaching out to her contacts in the sports world, working connections in some cases and just relying on blind ambition in others.

“A lot of vulnerability, and just sending out emails to women and saying, ‘Hey, this is what we're doing. This is why we're doing it. We would love if you would participate.’ It was just a great experience of women helping women and bringing together some amazing voices.”

In the end, de Bree gathered 18 women across 10 different presentations for the Women in Sport Speaker Series, which ran virtually from July 20-24. The line-up included a Q&A with National Women’s Team alumna Vicky Sunohara, and sessions on being a Black female coach, consent culture, the advancement of women in coaching and loving your body as a female athlete, among others.

All of the Women in Sport Speaker Series seminars are available on the official website

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and the push has already begun towards the 2021 series.

“It was fantastic to hear from the other women who tuned in and watched, and even the different men,” de Bree says. “One of our top referees in the area, he watched all of the talks and it was fantastic to see the different people engaging and kind of thinking through topics and just expanding their way of thinking.”

De Bree is working closely with Shiayli Toni, a fifth-year forward on the UBC women’s team who led the Championing Consent Culture webinar, to push forward and keep the conversation going.

A call went out in late August through social media, and nominations are being accepted for women who are making a difference in sports. Every month, one deserving woman will be celebrated on Twitter and Instagram.

For de Bree, the return of autumn means a return to the rink, albeit in a new-look hockey world thanks to the pandemic. While she navigates her way through another season behind the bench, she has a little bit of advice for girls and women who want to follow her path.

“One of the biggest hurdles that women have in getting into coaching is the time commitment. It can be really tough. And as women, when we come out of college or we come out of the end of our [playing] careers, we're still trying to financially set ourselves up. So find a role where you can start to get your feet wet and then build out that commitment. As soon as you make your name for yourself, you start to be able to find those roles where you do get financially compensated, so it makes it a lot easier to balance the work and life, and still be able to coach and give back to the game.”

Partners recognized for support of 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship

27 partners contributing to World Juniors in Ottawa, including 10 tournament partners

NR.102.24
|
December 26, 2024

OTTAWA, Ontario – With the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship beginning today, Hockey Canada is proud to recognize and thank the corporate partners who are supporting the tournament in Ottawa.

“The 2025 World Juniors would not be possible without the tremendous support we’ve received from our partners across the National Capital Region and beyond,” said Dean McIntosh, senior vice-president of revenue, fan experience and community impact. “From the moment Ottawa was awarded the tournament, we have worked with the host organizing committee to engage organizations that are excited to contribute to the legacy of this year’s event, which has led to one of the largest group of partners in World Juniors history.”

The successful bid to host the World Juniors was a partnership between the Ottawa Senators, Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group (OSEG), Ottawa Tourism, Hockey Eastern Ontario (HEO), the City of Ottawa and the Province of Ontario.

Hockey Canada has 11 of its corporate partners activating at this year’s tournament, including Esso, TELUS, Tim Hortons, Bauer, BFL CANADA, PepsiCo, OK Tire, Timber Mart, AMJ Campbell and SportsPay.

TSN/RDS, the official broadcasters of the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship, will broadcast all 29 tournament games.

In addition, 10 event partners are supporting the delivery of one of international hockey’s most prestigious tournaments: Access Storage, BUMP, Bumper to Bumper, Canadian Blood Services, FLO, LP Building Solutions, Myers Automotive Group, Niagara College, Supplement King and Walker Real Estate Group with RE/MAX.

The 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship begins today, with extremely limited ticket inventory for select games available at HockeyCanada.ca/Tickets.

To learn more about Hockey Canada, please visit HockeyCanada.ca, or follow along through social media on FacebookX, Instagram and TikTok.

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Esso extends partnership with Hockey Canada

Multi-year extension will prioritize initiatives that strengthen inclusion in hockey

NR.088.24
|
December 05, 2024

CALGARY, Alberta –Hockey Canada has announced a multi-year partnership extension with one of its long-standing premier partners, Imperial Oil’s Esso brand.

The extension will see Esso continue to work with Hockey Canada on initiatives that promote and strengthen inclusion in hockey, as well as enhancing programming opportunities for grassroots participants across Canada, including with women and girls.

“Hockey Canada has made it clear to Canadians that we are committed to building a healthier hockey that is rooted in safety, excellence and sport for all, and today’s announcement is extremely important to help us work towards that in partnership with Esso,” said Katherine Henderson, president and chief executive officer of Hockey Canada. “We are grateful to have its unwavering support and cannot wait to work together to connect more Canadians, and especially women and girls, with our national winter sport for years to come.”

“Imperial and the Esso brand have proudly supported hockey in Canada for more than 80 years, recognizing its vital role in connecting people and communities,” said Sherri Evers, senior vice-president with Imperial Oil. “Supporting the next generation of players and fans helps ensure the spirit of hockey in Canada continues to thrive. We look forward to our continued partnership with Hockey Canada that allows us to support achievement at all levels of hockey – from grassroots to the world stage.”

Imperial Oil and the Esso brand have been synonymous with hockey in Canada for nearly 90 years and a premier partner of Hockey Canada since 1981.

As part of the extension, the Esso brand will continue to have an extensive presence in creating unforgettable experiences for women’s and girls’ hockey across the country as the title sponsor of the Esso Cup, Canada’s Women’s U18 National Club Championship, and Esso Fun Days, which is an introductory program that introduced over 1,500 girls and women to hockey last season.

“For many Canadians hockey isn’t just a game, it’s what brings us together in our communities, and when Team Canada hits the ice it’s what unites us a nation” said Cheryl Seaward, director of partnerships at Imperial Oil. “As a long-standing premier partner of Hockey Canada, Imperial is proud to extend its partnership, fuelling the next generation of athletes from pond to podium while supporting the expansion and growth of the women’s game.”

The 2025 Esso Cup is scheduled for April 20-26 in Lloydminster, Alberta.

Along with Esso, Hockey Canada’s premier partners include TELUS, Tim Hortons and TSN/RDS.

To learn more about Hockey Canada, please visit HockeyCanada.ca , or follow along through social media on Facebook , X and Instagram .

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Bauer Hockey expands partnership with Hockey Canada

Iconic Canadian brand to become official team apparel partner

NR.074.24
|
October 30, 2024

CALGARY, Alberta – Hockey Canada and Bauer Hockey have announced a partnership expansion that will see the official equipment provider of Hockey Canada add the title of official team apparel partner, effective Nov. 1.

As part of the expansion, Bauer Hockey will outfit Canada’s national team athletes with branded team apparel, provide fans with a new lifestyle apparel lineup and launch official replica jerseys in fall 2025.

“Hockey Canada is thrilled to expand our partnership with Bauer Hockey, which will benefit Canada’s national men’s, women’s and para hockey teams throughout the next three years with Bauer as our official team apparel partner,” said Katherine Henderson, president and chief executive officer of Hockey Canada. “We are equally as excited for our fans, who will have access to more apparel options to wear as they cheer on Team Canada, including during the upcoming 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship in Ottawa.”

“For more than 20 years, we’ve been the official equipment partner to Hockey Canada, providing the best and most innovative product to help the athletes perform their best on the ice,” said Darryl Hughes, senior director of marketing partnerships for Bauer Hockey. “With the expanded partnership, we see opportunities to elevate the experience for fans with new branded lifestyle apparel and replica jerseys and for athletes with their apparel needs off the ice.”

During the three-year agreement, Bauer Hockey will also continue to provide Canada’s national men’s, women’s and para hockey teams with helmets, visors, face masks, neck guards and gloves at all International Ice Hockey Federation events, as well as the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Fans can purchase the new apparel today at HockeyCanada.ca, Bauer.com and authorized Bauer Hockey retail partners across the country and at tournaments hosted by Hockey Canada, including in Ottawa at the 2025 World Juniors.

“Expanding our agreement advances more than our support for the athletes on the ice,” said Mary-Kay Messier, vice-president of global marketing for Bauer Hockey. “We’re continuing to invest into and develop initiatives with Hockey Canada to grow the game and help make it even more accessible to families and kids across the country. Hockey continues to be part of the fabric of our Canadian culture, and we believe providing fan apparel helps inspire a connection to hockey in Canada and opens the door to bring new families into the hockey community.”

To learn more about Hockey Canada, please visit HockeyCanada.ca, or follow along through social media on FacebookXInstagram and TikTok.

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A goaltender tracks the puck in the crease during a drill.

7 Principles for Coaches: Goaltending

One of seven principles of coaching, developing fundamental goaltending skills at a young age ensures netminders will build a strong foundation for success in the crease

September 22, 2024

7 COACHING PRINCIPLES: Skating | Puck Control | Vision & Scanning | Deception | Creative & Dynamic | Angling | Goaltending

Goaltending coaching focuses on developing the specialized skills needed for the position, emphasizing skating, positioning, puck-tracking and puck-handling. It is critical for goaltenders to perform at their best in each of these areas and respond quickly to the fast pace of the game.

Importance of Skating

Skating is arguably the most crucial aspect of goaltending, forming the foundation for quick movements, effective positioning and making saves. Unlike regular players, who skate primarily forward and backward, goalies need to master specific movements that allow them to cover the crease and react to plays with precision. Strong skating skills enable goalies to stay agile and adjust quickly to changing the game situations.

Effective Positioning

Proper tracking is another key component of goaltending, directly influencing a netminder’s ability to react to shots, control rebounds and anticipate plays. A goalie with excellent puck-tracking can read plays more effectively, make quicker saves and stay in position for multiple shot attempts.

Enhancing Puck-Handling Skills

Puck-handling is no longer just for forwards and defenders. Goaltenders who can handle the puck well reduce pressure from forecheckers, assist in defensive-zone transitions and set up breakouts for teammates. Effective puck-handling helps teams maintain possession, relieve pressure during dump-ins and can even contribute to offensive opportunities.

Teaching Goaltending at All Age Levels

Developing these fundamental goaltending skills at all levels of play ensures goalies build a strong foundation early, allowing them to adapt to higher levels of competition and become game-changers for their teams.

Here are three drills that can be used at all ages to teach goaltending fundamentals:

Drill #1 – Warm-Up / Crease Skating


  • Start at the post in an athletic stance.
  • Rotate and power slide to face-off dots and slot (look, lean, load).
  • Use post-to-post and low-to-high sequences.
  • Recover to stand and repeat.

Key Teaching Points:

1. Lead with eyes, stick and skate (Look).
2. Rotate shoulders, glove and stick (Lean).
3. Maintain quiet upper body.


Drill #2 – Flash Screen Drill


  • Goaltender tracks the puck to the slot, then back to corner.
  • Goaltender should remain connected to the puck as the screen comes out of the corner.
  • Track the rebound out.

Key Teaching Points:

1. Stay unfazed by the traffic passing through the crease.
2. Use peripheral vision to stay connected to the puck.


Drill #3 – Report to Corner Passing


  • Coach starts with pucks on the half wall.
  • Goaltender is square to coach on the wall.
  • Coach rims puck along the boards; the goaltender leaves net, stops puck and passes it to the player in corner.
  • Teammate calls for a pass.
  • Sequence should be repeated so the goaltender must stop and play the rim to both forehand and backhand sides.

Key Teaching Points:

1. Depending on the strength of the rim, goalies should be using two hands to stop the puck. Top hand (blocker) on the knob of the stick and bottom hand (glove) where the shaft meets the paddle of the stick.
2. Goaltender must look first to see their target before making a pass.




The Hockey Canada Network gives coaches and players the tools to succeed with drills, skills, videos, practice plans and articles on their tablet or phone. There are over 1,500 drills and more than 100 lesson plans available.

Looking for more skills and drills? Hockey Canada frequently posts skill videos on its social channels that can be incorporated into practice plans. Search the #HCSkillsCoach and #HCGoalieCoach on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to find more drill videos to utilize on the ice.

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Beyond physical skills

Skating, passing and shooting are important, but so too is cultivating mental performance in young athletes

Lucas Madill
|
September 21, 2024

During my first session with every team I work with, I ask players to tell me how important mental skills are to their performance in comparison to their physical skills. Without hesitation, they will shout out “50/50,” “60/40,” “70/30,” or even “80/20.”

The next question I ask is if they spend as much time working on mental skills as they do physical skills, and the answer is always “no.” That’s because most players think mental skills practice has to occur at its own designated time, exclusive from physical practice. This couldn’t be further from the truth.

As coaches and parents, we are uniquely positioned to help young athletes practice mental performance skills during every drill, game, whistle break and car ride home. Our knowledge of mental performance skills does not have to be high to effectively do this. As Samuel Johnson once said, “People need to be reminded more often than they need to be instructed.”

What should you be reminding your young athletes about? Here are three simple ideas to help foster a growth mindset and a resilient attitude.

Self-talk

Hockey is a game of mistakes and, by default, our brains are negative. Young athletes regularly revert to negative self-talk when they make mistakes without understanding the consequences. Sometimes it’s simply a public display of self-berating to show their coach and teammates they aren’t happy with their poor performance, and other times it is simply frustration rising to the surface.

We can’t ask athletes to lie to themselves and say, “It’s ok, you will succeed,” or “Don’t worry, next shift will be better,” because it may not be, and failure may occur no matter what. But talking negatively to themselves has a similar effect on their physiology to when a coach or teammate is berating them.

What we can ask them to repeat to themselves are constructive phrases that focus on attributes that are not attached to their physical skills. They can say, “You’re a warrior, you will compete not matter what,” “You’re a battler, you won’t stay down for long,” or “You’re a problem solver, you’ll keep working figure this out.” These qualities will soon become what the athlete identifies themself by, and unlike heavy legs or rusty hands, they can’t be stripped away from them on a bad day.

Focusing techniques

I once heard LeBron James say, “I don’t rest on the bench, I recover.” Ever since then, I have talked to athletes about turning their rest intervals between shifts in a game, or even between drill repetitions at practice, into a recovery interval. During that time, I ask them to revert to a brief breathing routine that allows them to mentally reset.

The neuroscientist Andrew Huberman has described using multiple physiological sighs (inhale, followed by another inhale, followed by a long exhale) in succession to improve mental recovery. I ask athletes to practice a few repetitions of a technique like this before thinking about anything else after a shift/drill. Once the brain is settled, they can resume visualizing what they need to do next to be successful.

Deliberate practice

Failure is essential to improvement, and overcoming failure helps athletes become resilient people with a growth mindset. Deliberate practice, also known as deep practice, is the purposeful execution of a skill. It is not the perfect execution of a skill. It is the opposite of “auto-pilot.”

Athletes frequently need to be reminded that pushing themselves to fail, and then using the feedback they get from that failure to minimize it next time, is the best thing they can do for their development. When an athlete is going through the motions, nothing is being imprinted on their brain.

According to author Mathew Syed, when athletes push themselves beyond their limits and force themselves to “jumble” a task, that microsecond of struggle is where improvement takes place. A practice without failure is likely a practice without improvement.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: A certified member of the Canadian Sport Psychology Association (CSPA), Lucas Madill has worked as a mental performance consultant with teams throughout the Program of Excellence since 2017, including with Canada’s gold medal-winning National Junior Team in 2023. A native of Kirkland, Quebec, Lucas holds a master’s degree in sport psychology from the University of New Brunswick, along with bachelor’s degrees from UNB (education) and McGill University (kinesiology). He played university hockey at McGill and UNB, earning academic-all Canadian honours at both schools.

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A player controls the puck along the boards while a coach applies defensive pressure during a drill.

7 Principles for Coaches: Angling

One of seven principles of coaching, angling is a critical defensive technique that helps limit the opponent’s options and create opportunities to regain the puck

September 21, 2024

7 COACHING PRINCIPLES: Skating | Puck Control | Vision & Scanning | Deception | Creative & Dynamic | Angling | Goaltending

Angling is a critical defensive technique in hockey that involves positioning yourself to force an opponent into a less advantageous area of the ice, typically towards the boards or away from the net. This tactic helps limit the opponent’s options, slow down their speed, create opportunities to regain control of the puck and stop their advance.

Limiting Opponent Options

By effectively using angling, a player can reduce the space and time an opponent has to make a play. Forcing the opponent into a confined area of the ice not only disrupts their momentum, but also limits their passing and shooting options. This technique is a key defensive strategy for preventing scoring chances and containing offensive players.

Anticipation & Body Positioning

Successful angling requires anticipation, strong body positioning and stick control. By reading the opponent’s movements and positioning your body properly, a player can control the direction of the play without committing a penalty. The ability to angle well allows players to remain disciplined while still applying pressure and disrupting the opponent’s flow.

Practicing Angling Skills

Incorporating angling drills into practice is essential for mastering this skill. While it’s difficult to replicate the exact game situations players will face, regular practice and repetition are key to becoming proficient. Each angling scenario varies in terms of pace, ice position and the size of the opposing players. Practicing under different conditions helps players to adapt and improve.

Crucial for All Players

Angling is an important skill for both defence and forwards. By mastering angling, players can become more effective in shutting down opponents and regaining puck possession for their team.

Here are three drills that can be used at all ages to teach angling:

Drill #1 – 1-Up/1-Down – Gap Angling Drill


  • Spilt players into four groups using each corner of the ice. Alternate sides.
  • Coach starts the play with “GO.”
  • The defensive player must touch goal line, and the forward with puck must touch the blue line.
  • The defensive player’s goal is to clear puck or skate the puck past the ringette line if they steal it.
  • The forward’s goal is to try to score—one shot/one rebound is allowed per pair.


Drill #2 – Puck Steal Angling Warm-up


  • Line up players at centre ice.
  • Coach in the corner with pucks.
  • The first player in line (Player 1) skates in and takes a shot on net.
  • Player 1 then proceeds to the corner to retrieve a new puck.
  • Player 2 follows Player 1 in for their shot, then steers the player up the boards.
  • Ensure Player 2 executes good stick-on puck and hips-to-glove technique to separate the puck from Player 1.
  • Player 2 goes in for a shot on net.
  • Player 3 follows Player 2 in to repeat the drill.


Drill #3 – Checking Skills – Forecheck Progression


  • Defender 1 and Forward 1 head out to the pylon together.
  • Forward 1 dumps the puck in on Defender 1.
  • Forward 1 attempts to steer Defender 1 out of the play.
  • A second forward can join the forecheck and support Forward 1.
  • Forward 1 and Forward 2 take puck to the net after a change of possession.



The Hockey Canada Network gives coaches and players the tools to succeed with drills, skills, videos, practice plans and articles on their tablet or phone. There are over 1,500 drills and more than 100 lesson plans available.

Looking for more skills and drills? Hockey Canada frequently posts skill videos on its social channels that can be incorporated into practice plans. Search the #HCSkillsCoach and #HCGoalieCoach on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to find more drill videos to utilize on the ice.

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Two players cross while executing a drill.

7 Principles for Coaches: Creative & Dynamic

One of seven principles of coaching, creative and dynamic play unlocks new levels of success in the game by creating confusion within your opponent’s defensive structure

September 20, 2024

7 COACHING PRINCIPLES: Skating | Puck Control | Vision & Scanning | Deception | Creative & Dynamic | Angling | Goaltending

A creative and dynamic player in today’s game is one that plays with pace, is deceptive and thrives in small spaces. These players create confusion within the opposing team’s defensive structure and can separate themselves from defenders to give them a technical advantage. Their ability to read the game and react quickly allows them to consistently outmaneuver opponents.

Impact on Playmaking & Team Success

Creative and dynamic players don’t just showcase their skills—they make plays that drive success for their team. By utilizing their creativity, they extend puck possession, make smarter next plays and create more offensive opportunities for their teammates. This unpredictability keeps defenders guessing and opens the ice for others to capitalize on.

Skills for a Creative & Dynamic Game

Players looking to enhance their creativity and become more dynamic often work on specific skills during practice, such as cutbacks, escapes, jab steps, jukes, stick fakes and head and foot fakes. These techniques allow players to evade defenders while creating time and space, leading to better decision-making and game play execution.

Energizing the Team

Creative and dynamic players boost their own performance while energizing their teammates. Their style of play can lift the entire team’s morale and create a positive ripple effect on the ice. These players often elevate the performance of those around them, making their team more effective and difficult to defend against.

Teaching Creativity & Dynamism at All Age Levels

Fostering creativity and dynamic play should start early and be reinforced at all levels. Encouraging young players to experiment with new moves and take risks builds confidence and adaptability. As they advance, these skills become vital in keeping up with the increasing pace of the game, ensuring they continue to thrive as game-changers.

Here are three drills that can be used at all ages to teach creativity and dynamics:

Drill #1 – Warm Up / 10-Second Conditioning

  • Players line up in three lines along the red line.
  • On the coach’s whistle, players skate into the zone with a puck.
  • Players perform the communicated skill within that area until the next whistle.
  • The coach will vary the desired skills to be performed with the puck.
  • Players should have their eyes up, head on a swivel and keep their feet moving.

Progressions:

1. Navigate/heel skate
2. Heel-to-heel
3. Cutbacks
4. Two players per puck
5. 1v1 keep-away



Drill #2 – Puck Control / 1-on-1 Small Space Attack Sequences


  • Players start on the goal line.
  • Set up pylon – player – pylon on the ice.
  • Weave up and back, attacking the stationary player in the middle and finishing with a shot on net.
  • Alternate sides so the goaltender has time to get set for next shot.

Progressions:

1. Attack triangle (up and back)
2. Open to backhand to protect – cut hands
3. Disrupt stick (stick lift/stick swipe)
4. Add chaser
5. Player in the middle turns and gaps up the puck carrier to play 1v1
6. Chaser and regroup 1v1 (front and back pressure)


Drill #3 – Defence / Puck Control / 3 Puck Stop-and-Go Shooting

  • Three pylons are placed in a triangle formation close to the blue line.
  • Players skate inside out, around outside pylon and visualizing pressure while skating backwards away from it.
  • Players skate around other outside pylon, still visualizing pressure against and incorporating fakes to evade.
  • Repeat one more time, then head in for a shot on net.



The Hockey Canada Network gives coaches and players the tools to succeed with drills, skills, videos, practice plans and articles on their tablet or phone. There are over 1,500 drills and more than 100 lesson plans available.

Looking for more skills and drills? Hockey Canada frequently posts skill videos on its social channels that can be incorporated into practice plans. Search the #HCSkillsCoach and #HCGoalieCoach on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to find more drill videos to utilize on the ice.

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A player looks up the ice while controlling the puck.

7 Principles for Coaches: Deception

One of seven principles of coaching, deception is the art of misleading your opponent—a game-changing skill that can create more time and space with the puck

September 19, 2024

7 COACHING PRINCIPLES: Skating | Puck Control | Vision & Scanning | Deception | Creative & Dynamic | Angling | Goaltending

Deception is the art of misleading your opponent, making them believe you’re going one way when you’re planning to escape in another. This can be a game-changer, creating more time and space with the puck, helping you out-maneuver the opposition and capitalize on opportunities that can turn the tide of a game.

Creating Time & Space

A primary benefit of using deception is the creation of time and space. By deceiving your opponent, you can make them hesitate or commit to a direction, giving you the precious seconds needed to execute your next move.

Vision & Scanning

Successful deception isn’t just about the moves you make; it’s also about vision and awareness. Before attempting a deceptive maneuver, it’s crucial to develop good scanning habits—constantly reading the play, assessing the position of defenders and identifying the safest areas of the ice.

Teaching Deception at All Age Levels

For younger players, deception introduces creativity and critical thinking, allowing them to explore the game in a fun, dynamic way while building confidence and laying the foundation for more advanced techniques as they develop. For older, more experienced players, deception becomes an essential element of elevating their game. Incorporating deception into practice from a young age helps players build the instincts and awareness needed for long-term success.

Here are three drills you can use in practice with all age groups to teach deception:

Drill #1 – Three Line Deception

  • Put players in two or three lines in each end zone. (Goalies/Goalie coach can use NZ for skating skills.
  • Players start near the hashmarks and skate to blue line to perform the move and then skate back to the back of the line.
  • Maximize repetitions and use progressions for players to create deception, quick hands and puck control skills.
  • Forwards and defence perform same skills.
  • Coaches are encouraged to be creative with this template.


Drill #2 – Puck Control – Wall Retrieval – Stick Fakes



  • Place pucks near the hashmark.
  • Player B dumps a puck into the corner for Player A to retrieve.
  • Player A shoulder checks and incorporate a head, stick or foot fake to escape, then proceeds to net for a shot.
  • Player B provide soft pressure.


Drill #3 – Shooting – Fake pass – Off-wing shot



  • Players start lined up, side by side, in the middle of the ice at the blue line.
  • Players cross and proceed together towards the net.
  • Using deception, show a pass and take a shot.
  • Use deception, show a shot and make a pass.



The Hockey Canada Network gives coaches and players the tools to succeed with drills, skills, videos, practice plans and articles on their tablet or phone. There are over 1,500 drills and more than 100 lesson plans available.

Looking for more skills and drills? Hockey Canada frequently posts skill videos on its social channels that can be incorporated into practice plans. Search the #HCSkillsCoach and #HCGoalieCoach on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to find more drill videos to utilize on the ice.

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A defender scans the ice as a play unfolds during a drill.

7 Principles for Coaches: Vision & Scanning

One of seven principles of coaching, the ability to quickly process information visually by scanning all areas on the ice will help give players a competitive edge

September 18, 2024

7 COACHING PRINCIPLES: Skating | Puck Control | Vision & Scanning | Deception | Creative & Dynamic | Angling | Goaltending

Hockey’s fast pace requires players to process visual information quickly to give them a competitive edge. The faster a player can gather, analyze and act on information, the better their chances of executing the next play. This ability to make rapid decisions under pressure can significantly impact overall performance.

A Crucial Skill for All Positions

Scanning, often referred to as shoulder-checking, benefits every position on the ice. It is essential in all areas, allowing players to assess their surroundings. However, simply looking isn’t enough; players must actively “see” and understand the information they’re taking in.

Key Information to Identify

When scanning or looking around on the ice, players should focus on two main sources of information: where their teammates are and where the opposition’s pressure is coming from. Being able to quickly identify these factors will assist in making better decisions with the puck under pressure.

Incorporating Vision Into Training

Vision and scanning habits can be easily practiced and should be a regular part of daily training. When this skill becomes second nature, players will consistently find themselves making successful plays in games, greatly benefiting both their individual performance and the team’s success.

Teaching Puck Control 

Teaching vision and scanning skills at all ages levels is essential for developing well-rounded hockey players. For younger players, learning to consistently scan the ice and identify key information builds a foundation for advance gameplay, improving their overall hockey IQ. As players mature and the speed of the game increases, the ability to process information quickly becomes even more critical. By reinforcing these skills across all age groups, players will become more confident and capable of making smart, spilt-second decisions.

Here are three drills that can be used at all ages to teach puck control:

Drill #1 – Forwards / Puck Protection / Vision Sequence



Progression A

  • Players find a dot and partner.
  • Players position themselves two stick lengths away from each other.
  • One player on the dot turns and protects the puck from their partner.
  • The non-protecting player shows a number on their hand and moves in a circular motion around puck protector.
  • Protecting players must keep their back to partner and should check for changing numbers on the hand.
  • The protecting player calls out the number as their partner moves around.

Progression B

  • Add new player to the group; three players will now execute.
  • Use the same puck protection sequence above on and off the coach’s whistle.
  • The new player adds stress to the situation and hinders the protector’s use of vision and ease of protecting the puck.

Progression C

  • Still in a group of three, remove the number calling and make the player a passing outlet.


Drill #2 – Figure 8 Scanning



Defence:

  • Defence starts up at the blue line in between two pylons.
  • The player will skate in a figure 8 with the puck always facing the net.
  • Coach should face the player, holding a hand up in the air to show numbers.
  • Defence will visually identify the number and call it out.
  • After 20-25 seconds, the player will go in for a shot.

Forwards:

  • Forwards start on the dot in the corner.
  • Coaches will surround the player, holding one hand in the air.
  • The forward will spot puck along the boards and retrieve it.
  • The forward will skate in a figure 8 puck protection pattern along the wall, while at the same time identifying the number the coach is showing on their hand.
  • After 20-25 seconds, the player will go in for a shot.


Drill #3 – Reading Pressure / Corner Situations

  • One player starts in the corner, one player has a puck on the dot.
  • The player on the dot passes to the player in corner with pressure to the left or right side.

Progressions

  • Nose-to-nose pressure
  • Shoulder check turn pressure
  • Absorb and spin from pressure
  • Build to 1v1 out of the corner



The Hockey Canada Network gives coaches and players the tools to succeed with drills, skills, videos, practice plans and articles on their tablet or phone. There are over 1,500 drills and more than 100 lesson plans available.

Looking for more skills and drills? Hockey Canada frequently posts skill videos on its social channels that can be incorporated into practice plans. Search the #HCSkillsCoach and #HCGoalieCoach on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to find more drill videos to utilize on the ice.

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A player controls the puck during a drill.

7 Principles for Coaches: Puck Control

One of seven principles of coaching, puck control can significantly enhance a player's effectiveness on the ice by maintaining possession and creating opportunities

September 17, 2024

7 COACHING PRINCIPLES: Skating | Puck Control | Vision & ScanningDeception | Creative & Dynamic | Angling | Goaltending

Puck control is a fundamental skill that can significantly enhance a player's effectiveness on the ice. At its core, puck control involves the ability to maintain possession, create opportunities and contribute to your team's success. Mastering puck control allows players to maneuver confidently under pressure, execute precise plays and ultimately influence the outcome of the game.

Enhancing Time & Space

By skillfully handling the puck, players force defenders to react, often opening gaps in the defence. This extra time and space allows players to make better decisions, whether it’s passing, shooting or setting up the next play, giving them an advantage over opponents.

Building Skills Through Progression

Players should start with stationary puck-handling before moving onto handling the puck while moving, then adding teammates and game scenarios. This structured approach ensures they build confidence and can handle the puck in competitive situations.

Incorporating Vision & Scanning

Effective puck control isn’t just about technical skills; it also requires good vision and awareness. Developing strong scanning habits is essential—constantly reading the play, assessing the positions of defenders and identifying open areas of the ice. Combining puck control with situational awareness, players can make smarter decisions, avoid pressure and improve overall performance.

Teaching Puck Control at All Age Levels

Puck control is a skill that should be taught and reinforced at all age levels. For younger players, learning these skills early lays a solid foundation for their development, enabling them to build confidence and enjoy the game more. As players advance, refining puck control becomes even more critical as the speed and complexity of the game increase. Regardless of a player's age or skill level, strong puck control is an essential component of hockey that can lead to long-term success and enjoyment of the game.

Here are three drills that can be used at all ages to teach puck control:

Drill #1 – Puck Control Combinations

  • Form two lines in one end. Players will perform skills down the middle of the ice and back along the boards.
  • Maximize reps and use progressions for players to create deception; use quick hands and puck control skills.
  • Forwards and defence perform the same skills.
  • Goalie coach works with goalies at far end.

Forward puck control skills:

1. Heel skate
2. Heel skate / stride combination
3. Wide narrow stick handles
4. Heel to heel
5. Stride / one-crossover combination
6. Cutbacks
7. Continuous crossovers
8. 1v1 triangle moves



Drill #2 – Defence Escape Triangle

  • Place three pylons in a triangle, set up on each side of the ice.
  • Transition at top pylon (heels first/toes first) and turn away from each of the bottom pylons.
  • Teach skating first, then add a puck.

Skill progressions at the bottom of the triangle:

1. Ride inside edge—toes up ice (No puck / add puck)
2. Escape turns
3. Half-escape turns
4. Random escapes, add touch passes with coach



Drill #3 – Scoring / Corner Drive D / Double Delay

  • Players start in the corner with pucks.
  • Player leaves corner, drives hard around circle, performs a tight turn and delays back towards corner.
  • Perform another tight turn and skate in the original direction towards the net.
  • Finish with a shot on net.
  • Add a defender for a progression.



The Hockey Canada Network gives coaches and players the tools to succeed with drills, skills, videos, practice plans and articles on their tablet or phone. There are over 1,500 drills and more than 100 lesson plans available.

Looking for more skills and drills? Hockey Canada frequently posts skill videos on its social channels that can be incorporated into practice plans. Search the #HCSkillsCoach and #HCGoalieCoach on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to find more drill videos to utilize on the ice.

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For more information:

Esther Madziya
Manager, Communications
Hockey Canada

(403) 284-6484 

[email protected] 

Spencer Sharkey
Manager, Communications
Hockey Canada

(403) 777-4567

[email protected]

Jeremy Knight
Manager, Corporate Communications
Hockey Canada

(647) 251-9738

[email protected]

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