Reply To: Typical Practice for Midget Age

[steve]

Dman,
A couple things I would add, a bit more on the practice philosophy side though,. First I don't like to call the first part of ice-time warmup. Its go-time right from the start. Set the expectations high no matter the drill. Three things to see in every practice, urgency, tempo, and discipline. Players competing while paying attention to the details builds over achievers. Even when switching groups while playing games – hustle in hustle out. Snow piled up from the guys having to stop because they are coming out of the drill at high speed is a sign of effort. Players have to learn that every moment counts. Second, 27-33 skaters (not counting goalies) is not a problem it just takes a little more organization and strong assistants. Start and finish drills with an extra play away from the net. this adds a dimension to the drill, uses underutilized sections of ice, and gives a coach the chance to make sure players finish drills as strong as they start them. If you are working a SAG then as soon as a player or group exits they have to perform a task in an open area. Third, I don't use cool downs or specific 'fun" drills because players love competition so you can have guys really compete right to the end. Line change drills work great they are fun, competitive, and teach the game. Just a few thoughts, have a great day an good luck. Steve