The Time Paradox
The Flux Capacitor: a primary piece of equipment that made time travel work, as suggested in the movie, Back to the Future. One of my favorite movies because who doesn’t like to think about the possibility of time travel? Time in hockey is funny; we think we have all the time in the world to make things happen until the buzzer runs out; then we wish we had more time.
If time controls the game, then it is reasonable to say that the team that controls the puck also controls the clock. If true, then puck possession can be used as a high predictor of determining the winning team. However, this will all depend on player abilities. Therefore, how do we train players to utilize time and puck possession to their advantage?
Dress Possess to Impress
Interesting tidbit of information above, right? Now, this falls under my practice argument, but I want to highlight the average time for puck possession of a youth player here: 36 seconds; the time on ice average for youth is 12 minutes.
If we increase the time of possession and make it an objective of every player, then that could equate to a higher probability of victory. However, I want to be clear that I am not suggesting we should hold on to the puck for more wins; I am suggesting that we make it a priority in developing our players to understand how and when to possess the puck, along with what to do with it in certain situations.
So, how do we do it?
We talkin’ bout practice - again
This article is from almost ten years ago, but it highlights ideal training scenarios for youth development based on puck touches.
“One properly-run practice is the equivalent of 11 games when it comes to puck touches,” says ADM Regional Manager Ty Hennes.
Since this article was published, USAH has introduced a few other factors that could contribute to a well-designed practice plan. We have already dabbled in the constraint-led approach (we’ll keep going there), but the Five Elements of a good practice design should be at the forefront of our design process. They are the following:
Fun
Challenges the Players
Constant Decision Making
Looks like the game
Puck touches
As a reminder, the constraints-led approach (CLA) allows coaches to shape and challenge players, rather than direct players. If puck possession is an objective for our players, what kind of drills can we create that a) utilize the five elements, and b) help develop the underlying concept of puck possession?
I like to use different games to manipulate behaviors before we start using pucks at 10U; I use this at 8U, too, but it looks different from below. Sometimes, limitations can be attributed to the techniques of players. This can lead to more frustration, rather than learning. Instead, I try to level the playing field and incorporate some other athleticism that will increase their ability to perceive depth. It’s also really fun for them!
I call this game “handball.” I know it’s not like the European game, but I couldn’t come up with a different name - it has just stuck.
Here is a clip of the same concepts, but off-ice and with older players. We put in more rules, but the behaviors created is what we are truly working towards.
You may be asking, “How does this even fit?” Well, if we break this down even more, we can still get the technical aspects of puck protection, but it may look different. This clip is a 1v1 puck protection game, but we are also asking the players to be aware of their surroundings, while working on their technical aspects of the game.
The beauty of all this is trying to create a puzzle for the players to solve, while also being challenged into seeing what will work and what won’t. It’s one of the best aspects of coaching and it’s so cool to see kids figure out different solutions to the puzzle.
Be curious, not judgmental.
This stuff isn’t easy. The concepts are hard and people will always try and point out flaws because it doesn’t fit their narrative. However, I implore you to take Ted’s advice: Be curious, not judgmental. It will do wonders for the development of the players, and you, as a coach.