Here is another installment of “Thoughts From The Bench” by Hal Tearse from Minnesota Hockey. Please follow the links to some great hockey insight from guys who really know the game inside and out. There is some good info that we all can benefit from, so please take advantage of it.Of particular interest to me was the piece on small games, or what is termed “small sided” games on the PDF. For those of you who utilize small games in your practices, I’m certain you understand their tremendous benefits. Amazingly, I still speak with coaches who resist the idea of using small games as a practice tool. They are really missing the boat. There are so many variations on small games.  All players get many more puck touches than traditional full ice scrimmages and learn to maneuver in tight areas so much better and the end result is quicker reaction time in game situations.  This is not to suggest you eliminate full ice scrimmages as those also have their benefits.  Just read the article and you will gain some great insight into small games and the great overall skill development they foster in players of all ages.

Please have a safe and happy Thanksgiving.

Sincerely,

Dave Soutter

ACE Director for Utah